Canton Zug, 01.12.2023

Cases of poverty in old age

The definitive amendment to the Supplementary Benefits Act (ELG: Ergänzungsleistungsgesetz) will come into force on 1 January 2024.

The three-year transitional phase, during which the needs of supplementary benefits recipients were calculated according to the old and new law, will end on 31 December 2023, after which the new ELG will apply exclusively. Senior citizens who have been assessed according to the old ELG in the last three years must expect changes.

Stefanie Waldburger from Pro Senectute Canton Zug emphasises the importance of early information in order to avoid financial surprises. If anything is unclear, those affected can contact the cantonal supplementary benefits office.

Around 1,900 people aged 65 and over in the canton of Zug are classed as poor   Photo: zvg


According to Pro Senectute, around 3,150 people aged 65 and over are living in the canton of Zug with an income of less than CHF 2,506 per month. Many of them are unaware that they are entitled to supplementary benefits or helplessness allowance. With their existing assets already limited, their reserves can dwindle even further as a result of inflation or even strokes of fate. Around 1,900 people aged 65 and over in the canton with an income of less than CHF 2,279 per month are classed as poor. The lack of knowledge about entitlements to supplementary benefits is a problem that can be tackled through education and counselling.

Note:
Information on the supplementary benefits law can be found at www.prosenectute.ch/el.
Zug citizens of AHV age can also call 041 727 50 20 to register for a free consultation.