Früherfassung IV & IV-Anmeldung Schweiz

Early detection is an IV instrument aimed at identifying a threatening disability at an early stage and preventing it through targeted measures. The goal is to keep affected persons in the work process or to reintegrate them as quickly as possible.

Early detection is not a formal IV application, but a notification that enables initial contact with the IV office. It has the following characteristics:

• It is voluntary and has no direct legal consequences.
• The notification can be made after 30 days of continuous incapacity to work, or when repeated shorter absences occur within a year.
• After the notification, the IV office contacts the affected person and assesses whether early intervention measures are appropriate.
• Measures may include workplace adjustments, retraining, or counselling.

Early detection is particularly valuable because it intervenes early, before permanent disability develops. The sooner support is provided, the better the chances of successful reintegration.

You can obtain the form for IV early detection directly from the IV office of your canton of residence or download it from the website of the relevant IV office. An early detection notification can be submitted by various persons:

• The affected person themselves: Anyone who notices that their ability to work is at risk can contact the IV office directly.
• Employers: Employers have a legitimate interest when employees are unable to work for an extended period. A notification requires the consent of the affected person.
• Attending physicians: The GP or specialist can recommend early detection and submit the notification.
• Daily sickness benefit or accident insurers: Insurers can also submit an early detection notification.
• Family members: In certain cases, family members can also initiate a notification.

Important: The early detection notification can be made informally. However, the official form facilitates processing by the IV office. Have the following information ready: personal details, employer details, type and duration of the health restriction.

If early detection measures are insufficient or the ability to work is permanently restricted, the formal IV application follows. This is a prerequisite for receiving IV benefits such as integration measures or an IV pension.

Requirements for an IV application:

• The insured person is resident in Switzerland or is employed in Switzerland.
• There is a health impairment that leads to a permanent or long-term restriction of the ability to work.
• The incapacity to work has existed for at least 30 days or it is foreseeable that it will last a long time.

Process of the IV application:

• Submit application form: The official application form is available from the cantonal IV office. It must be completed and signed by the affected person (or their legal representative).
• Medical documents: Medical reports, hospital reports, and other medical documents must be enclosed or submitted subsequently.
• Assessment by the IV office: The IV office reviews the application, requests further documents if necessary, and orders medical or vocational assessments if needed.
• Decision: After completing the assessments, the IV office issues a decision on benefits (integration measures, IV pension, or rejection).

Timeframe: The entire process from application to decision can take several months to over a year. During this time, integration measures may already be initiated.

The IV card is an official document received by persons who draw an IV pension. It serves as proof of disability and can enable various discounts and benefits:

• Public transport discounts: Half-fare subscription at a reduced price; in certain cases, entitlement to a companion card.
• Culture and leisure discounts: Many museums, cinemas, swimming pools, and events offer discounts for IV recipients.
• Tax deductions: Certain disability-related costs can be deducted from taxes.
• Access to specialised services: Residential homes, sheltered workshops, and advisory centres.

The IV card is automatically issued by the IV office once an IV pension has been granted. It contains information about the person, the degree of disability, and the period of validity. If the IV degree changes, the card is updated.