AHV Optimization
Strengthening the foundation of your retirement provision
Making the most of the 1st pillar
AHV forms the foundation of Swiss retirement provision and provides many people with the largest share of their retirement income. Nevertheless, it often doesn't get the attention it deserves.
With the right strategy, you can maximize your AHV pension and avoid costly mistakes – from avoiding contribution gaps to choosing the optimal time to start drawing your pension.
Your benefits at a glance
Gap check
We review your contribution history and identify gaps that could reduce your pension.
Pension forecast
Realistic calculation of your expected AHV pension based on your contribution history.
Timing optimization
Calculation of the optimal withdrawal timing: early, regular, or deferred?
Couple planning
Coordinated planning for couples, taking the income cap into account.
Splitting analysis
In case of divorce: review and optimization of contribution splitting.
Overall coordination
Integration of AHV planning into your overall retirement strategy.
In-depth knowledge
How does AHV work?
AHV (old-age and survivors' insurance) is a mandatory social insurance for all people living or working in Switzerland. It is financed on a pay-as-you-go basis.
The amount of your pension depends on: the number of contribution years (full pension from 44 years for men, 43 years for women), your average annual income, and any child-raising or care credits.
Contribution gaps and their consequences
Each missing contribution year leads to a pension reduction of about 2.3%. With 3 missing years, that's already almost 7% less pension – for life.
Common causes of gaps include: living abroad without registering with AHV, studying abroad, and career breaks without voluntary contributions. The good news: gaps can partly be paid retroactively.
Early withdrawal of the AHV pension
You can start drawing your AHV pension 1-2 years before the ordinary retirement age. The price for this: a lifelong reduction of 6.8% per year of early withdrawal.
Whether it's worthwhile depends on many factors: life expectancy, other income, tax situation, and personal needs. We calculate your individual scenario.
Deferring the AHV pension
Alternatively, you can defer drawing your pension by 1-5 years. In return, you receive a surcharge of 5.2% to 31.5% on your pension – for life.
Deferral is particularly worthwhile if you continue working and earn well, have a high life expectancy, and face high tax progression during your working years.
Avoid common mistakes
These are the mistakes we see most often in practice
Not knowing your contribution gaps
Many people don't know they have gaps. An individual account (IK) statement provides clarity – best to order one now.
Early withdrawal without calculation
Early withdrawal sounds tempting but often costs more than expected. A precise calculation is essential.
Underestimating the income cap
Couples don't receive double the pension. The income cap can lead to surprisingly low pensions.
Looking at AHV in isolation
AHV must be planned in the context of the pension fund and pillar 3. Isolated decisions are often suboptimal.
Checklist: your next steps
What you can do right now
Frequently asked questions about AHV Optimization
Answers to the most important questions
Related topics
These topics might also interest you
Personal consultation
We're here for you
Maximize your AHV pension
We review your AHV situation and highlight optimization potential.
Book an appointment
Schedule a consultation directly
Request a callback
We'll call you back
WhatsApp consultation
Fast answers via chat
Send an email
Tell us what you need