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On death, everything depends on where your 2nd pillar capital sits. In a pension fund, your loved ones receive at best partial pensions under conditions — and the residual capital stays with the fund. In a vested benefits account, the capital is passed on in full to your beneficiaries.
In a pension fund: partial pensions, strict conditions
- Surviving spouse: typically 60% of the pension, often subject to conditions (age 45+, 5 years of marriage, or dependent children).
- Unmarried partner: only if the regulations provide for it AND the fund was notified — many partners receive nothing.
- Orphans: around 20% per child, until 18 (25 if studying).
- No eligible survivors: the capital stays with the fund and finances the other insured members. It does NOT enter your estate.
In a vested benefits account: capital passed on in full
The law (art. 15 OLP) defines a beneficiary order: spouse/registered partner, then children (including adults), then designated persons. You can adjust the order within legal limits by written notice. The capital does not transit through the estate — it is paid directly, even if the succession is refused.
Comparison
| Pension fund | Vested benefits account | |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse | Partial pension, conditions | Full capital |
| Partner | Depends on regulations + notification | Beneficiary by designation |
| Adult children | Generally nothing | Beneficiaries |
| No survivors | Capital stays with the fund | Paid to designated persons |
What you should do now
- Locate all your accounts (pension fund + any forgotten vested benefits accounts).
- Check your fund’s survivor provisions and notify your partner if applicable.
- Designate your beneficiaries in writing for each vested benefits foundation.
Frequently asked questions
Does 2nd pillar capital go through the estate?
No. It is paid directly to beneficiaries under social insurance law — even if the heirs refuse the succession.
My partner and I are not married — what happens?
In a pension fund, everything depends on the regulations and prior notification. In a vested benefits account, you can designate your partner as beneficiary. Check both now.
Are death benefits taxed?
Capital paid to spouse and children is taxed at reduced rates (varies by canton); unrelated beneficiaries may pay more.
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