For the person receiving care
The person receiving care gets a fixed allowance based on their assessed support needs, regardless of income or assets.
AHV/IV: helplessness allowance ↗Support in everyday life
IV and AHV helplessness allowance
Financial support for people who regularly need help in everyday life.
Two benefits. Two recipients.
For the family caregiver
When employed by a Spitex provider, you are paid for recognised care services. This requires a separate employment contract.
FOPH: employing family caregivers ↗Can the two be combined?
Yes. In principle, a helplessness allowance and paid family care can coexist.
Why can they be combined?
Die Krankenversicherung darf ihre Beiträge an anerkannte Pflegeleistungen nicht allein wegen einer Hilflosenentschädigung der AHV oder IV verrechnen und kürzen. Die Voraussetzungen für beide Leistungen werden getrennt geprüft.
Bund: Informationen zur Pflegefinanzierung ↗How to clarify your entitlement
- Record everyday support needs
Note which activities require assistance, how often and since when.
- Apply to the IV office
Contact the IV office in your canton of residence, including for an AHV helplessness allowance.
Find your cantonal IV office ↗ - Individual assessment
The responsible office assesses entitlement. Declare existing benefits and any changes in your circumstances.
Official application guidance ↗