Jurilo by Lawise.ai:
Jurilo is based on verified Swiss employment law and answers employment law questions from employees and HR managers every day.
This article was created according to Swiss Unemployment Insurance Law (AVIG) and corresponds to the practice of the RAV and unemployment insurance funds.
Anyone who becomes unemployed in Switzerland after a termination generally has a right to unemployment benefits – however, not unconditionally. In this article, you will learn when you receive daily allowances, how much they are, and when the RAV can impose a suspension period – especially in cases of self-inflicted unemployment.
REQUIREMENTS FOR UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS AFTER TERMINATION
To receive unemployment benefits (daily allowances), you must meet certain requirements:
You are fully or partially unemployed
You reside in Switzerland
You have paid at least 12 months of contributions in the last 2 years (contribution period)
You are employable (ready and able to work)
You register with the RAV in a timely manner
AMOUNT AND DURATION OF UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The amount of unemployment benefits is based on the insured earnings:
70% of the insured salary (standard)
80% if you have maintenance obligations or had a low income
The maximum number of daily allowances depends on age and contribution period (e.g., 400 daily allowances for 12 months of contribution period).
SUSPENSION PERIOD AT THE RAV: WHEN IS IT IMPOSED?
The RAV can impose a suspension period if you have caused your unemployment through your own fault. During the suspension period, you receive no daily allowances.
Typical reasons for a suspension period:
You resigned yourself without a valid reason
You signed a termination agreement without pressure or hardship
You did not register with the RAV in time
You rejected a reasonable job offer
You did not make sufficient efforts to find work
Duration of the Suspension Period
The suspension period can range from 5 to 60 days depending on the severity of fault:
Minor fault: 5–15 days
Moderate fault: 16–30 days
Severe fault: 31–60 days
SELF-INFLICTED UNEMPLOYMENT: WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
Unemployment is considered self-inflicted if you caused it avoidably – e.g., by resigning without an important reason or through conduct in breach of contract that led to dismissal.
Important notes:
An important reason (e.g., bullying, health reasons) can prevent a suspension period – but must be documented.
Even with a termination agreement, the RAV can impose a suspension period if you signed it voluntarily.
HOW CAN YOU AVOID A SUSPENSION PERIOD?
Only resign with a valid reason – and document it
Register with the RAV immediately after termination
Accept reasonable job offers
Comply with the job search obligations
Get legal advice if you are unsure before resigning or signing a termination agreement
CONCLUSION
After a termination, you generally have a right to unemployment benefits in Switzerland – but only if you meet the requirements and your unemployment is not self-inflicted. A suspension period at the RAV can lead to significant financial losses. Therefore, it is important to act prudently and comply with all obligations.
👉 Unsure if you face a suspension period?
Jurilo reviews termination, termination agreements, and unemployment insurance consequences according to Swiss law – structured, neutral, and legally sound.
👉 See also: Termination During Illness – Protection Period Under Art. 336c CO
👉 Related: Termination Agreement Switzerland: Risks & Suspension Period
👉 Basics: Notice Period in Switzerland – Simply Explained
FAQ ON UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS & SUSPENSION PERIOD
Do I have a right to unemployment benefits after a termination?
Yes, if you have fulfilled the contribution period and are available for placement.
How much is unemployment benefit in Switzerland?
Usually 70% of the insured salary, 80% if you have maintenance obligations or low income.
What is a suspension period at the RAV?
A time period (5–60 days) during which you receive no daily allowances – e.g., in cases of self-inflicted unemployment.
When is a termination considered self-inflicted?
When you resign without a valid reason or are dismissed due to misconduct.
Is a termination agreement considered self-inflicted?
Yes, if you sign it voluntarily and there were no compelling reasons.
How can I avoid a suspension period?
Only resign with a valid reason, document everything, and register with the RAV in time.
Do I have to register with the RAV immediately?
Yes, preferably on the day of termination or at the latest on the first day of unemployment.
What happens if I reject a job?
The RAV can impose a suspension period if the job was reasonable.
What is the maximum duration of the suspension period?
Up to 60 days – in cases of severe fault.
Can I appeal against a suspension period?
Yes, you can file an objection against the decision of the unemployment insurance fund.
Sources:
Art. 30 AVIG – Suspension of Benefit Entitlement
arbeit.swiss – Official Website of Unemployment Insurance
Information sheets from the Regional Employment Centers (RAV)
