scale 44 calculation scale 44 explained how scale 44 works

Scale 44 explained: The AHV pension scale in Switzerland

Scale 44 is a central element in the Swiss AHV system and determines how high your AHV pension will be. But what exactly does this term mean?

In this article, we explain the Basic principles of the pension scale 44its significance for your future pension and how it works within the Swiss pension system. We also present the current scale as a clear graphic. Because if you live in Switzerland, sooner or later you will have to deal with this topic, and with our help it will be very easy.

Table of contents

What does Scale 44 mean?

The AHV pension scale 44 is a model that we need to calculate the AHV pension amount (old-age and survivors' insurance).

To do this, we need to understand that the pension system in Switzerland is based on the 3-pillar principle builds up. The First pillar is the AHV mentioned above. This refers to the state pension scheme, which is mandatory for all employees and self-employed persons in Switzerland. The pension fund is the second pillar in the pension scheme and relates to occupational pension provision. This is only compulsory from a certain salary. The third pillar (consisting of Pillar 3a and 3b) is the private and therefore voluntary pension provision.

Scale 44 - current table

You can find the current table below. With the help of your Individual Statement (IK) (you can order here) and the Scale 44 you can find out your AHV pension. For detailed information on current pension values, be sure to take a look at our Article on the AHV maximum pension through.

Scale 44 explained scale 44 what is it simply explained scale 44

Interim conclusion: Scale 44 refers to the first pillar, i.e. the state pension scheme, the AHV. We can use scale 44 to analyse our Calculate AHV pension and in this way plan our pension provision at an early stage.

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Origin and significance of the pension scale 44

The term Scale 44 refers to the Maximum number of AHV contribution yearsthat a person can reach in Switzerland. The full pension according to scale 44 is paid to anyone who has paid OASI contributions without interruption from the age of 21 - taking into account any years of youth. In this case, you can draw your pension at the age of 65. This corresponds to the reference age for men. For women, this is 64 or 65, depending on the year of birth.

The AHV was introduced on 1 January 1948 and has undergone a number of revisions to date. The purpose of Scale 44 is to standardise pension entitlements and create transparency.

The scale ranges from 1 (one contribution year) to 44 (full pension). Each missing year reduces the entitlement by 1/44. Scale 43 If this is not the case, there is a missing contribution year, which leads to a pension reduction of at least 1/44.

Basic principles of the scale 44

Scale 44 is based on two factorsthe number of contribution years and the average income during the contribution years.

As already mentioned, the Full pension 44 years of contributions necessary. These are normally earned from the age of 20 until retirement. If there are missing years in your CV (e.g. due to longer stays abroad), the reduction is proportional to the number of missing contribution years. For example, if you can prove 42 years, you will receive 42/44 of the full pension. All scales from 1 to 44 are calculated in the same way.

Missing contribution years can be closed retroactively for up to five years by actively paying the minimum contribution. If you have gaps in your contributions that go back more than five years, you can fill them with contributions you made in your youth (between the ages of 18 and 20).

The Average income of contribution years is just as important for the pension payment. The higher your average income, the higher your pension will be. However, there is a Maximum pension. This means that if a person exceeds a certain rate, their pension no longer increases.

Important note for married couples: If both spouses receive an AHV pension, the sum of both pensions together must not exceed around 150TP3T of the maximum pension for single persons. This means that if these people were not married, they would each receive 100% of the maximum pension, and together they would receive 200% instead of only 150%.

Scope of the scale 44

The scale 44 calculation applies to all persons who were fully liable to contribute to the AHV system. This can apply to both Swiss nationals and newcomers. A full contribution year cannot be completed by paying contributions alone. Parenting or childcare credits can also be taken into account. It is also possible for a spouse to pay double the minimum contribution during a year. If there is a missing contribution year that is not closed, this will lead to a reduction in the pension.

At a glance: Scale 44 is relevant for all persons living in Switzerland. It is only paid out in full if 44 years of contributions have been paid. Gaps can be closed in some cases. If there are no years of contributions, the pension is reduced proportionately.

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Conclusion on scale 44

The Scale 44 refers to the AHV (old-age and survivors' insurance) in Switzerland. We need them to find out how much our AHV pension will be. If you can prove that you have paid 44 full years into the AHV, you will receive the ordinary full pension.

If you have fewer years of contribution payments, the Pension calculated in proportion to the contribution period (e.g. at 43 years = scale 43). Years of absence lead to pension reductions and should be recognised early and, if possible, closed. Find out in good time from your Individualised account statement (IK) about your AHV status and thus avoid possible gaps.

Frequently asked questions about scale 44

Scale 43 applies if there is a missing contribution year. In this case, the pension is reduced by one year. It is calculated on the basis of 43/44 of the full pension.

Gaps in contributions play an important role, as they lead to a reduction in AHV. They can be closed voluntarily (but only retroactively for 5 years). Persons who are not gainfully employed must declare their status and fulfil a minimum contribution payment.

You can find your personal categorisation in your Individual Account (IK). Here the Extract can be ordered.

The application of the scale is influenced by the following factors: contribution period, full contribution payment and gaps (fulfilment). Periods spent abroad cannot be taken into account. People who are not gainfully employed, such as students or housewives/husbands, must ensure that they fulfil their AHV contribution obligations themselves - for example by paying the minimum annual contribution if they are not covered by their spouse.

You can see which scale applies to you in your individual account (IK). It is advisable to check this account regularly and in good time.

Financial author Eric Marschall certified investment advisor (IAF) independent financial expert Switzerland - certified financial expert switzerland
About the author

Eric is the founder of Schwiizerfranke.com and certified IAF wealth advisor. Since 2019, he has been helping Swiss citizens to organise their finances comprehensibly, independently and efficiently.

More about Eric & Schwiizerfranke

📌 Note: This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute personalised investment advice.

2 responses

  1. Hello
    How can non-Swiss nationals close the gaps if they have not had the opportunity to pay in from the age of 21?
    Is it ever possible to receive a full AHV pension as a working foreigner who later moved to Switzerland?
    Thank you very much, great blog!

    Reply

    1. As long as there was no income subject to AHV contributions, newcomers unfortunately cannot make any subsequent voluntary contributions for these years.
      Unfortunately, the same also applies to the new 3a back payments.
      However, as a rule, pension insurance was taken out in another country during these years, which then applies accordingly.

      Reply
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