I care for a family member – what should I check?
4 tasks in suggested order
1. Clarify paid short-term leave with the employer
Official source: www.bsv.admin.ch
2. Check eligibility for care credits and claim them annually
People caring for eligible close relatives may receive care credits for future OASI pension calculation if the conditions are met.
Claim annually.
Competent cantonal compensation office.
Details of the person cared for and evidence of eligibility, including the relevant helplessness allowance.
Care credits are not a cash benefit; they affect pension calculation.
Official source: Informationsstelle AHV/IV
3. Check care allowance for a seriously ill child
If applicable: Only if you are a parent caring for a seriously ill minor child.
Parents of a seriously ill minor child may qualify for care leave and care compensation under the statutory conditions.
When the eligibility conditions are met and care leave is taken.
Compensation office; processing may involve the employer depending on employment status.
Application and medical/employment details required by the form.
This is a special benefit and does not apply to every general caring situation.
Official source: Informationsstelle AHV/IV
4. Check respite and counselling services in your canton
Official source: www.bsv.admin.ch
