After almost two years on the RAV my period of entitlement is coming to an end. I have had occasional work during the period I was claiming, the income from which was offset from my income but which did not extend my period of eligibility.

The question is, what next? What expectations have I for any financial support from the Swiss government or the Canton? I have a wife and two children.

If anyone can give me any guidance it would be much appreciated. The RAV haven't offered any advice except to tell me that my period of financial support from my employment insurance will expire.

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Nic Oatridge
www.swisswintersports.co.uk

What happens when chomage runs out?

How many months did you do ANY work, if it's more than 12 you are entitled to further RAV benefits, however your new insured salary will be 80% of the average you earned during the last 6 months so possibly too little to be helpful. Your RAV advisor will probably not be aware of this, however your entitlement is the same as anybody else's. It's always min 12 months over the last 24, however it does not need to be full time, as you can be partially unemployed in CH.

I won't have managed 12 months in the 24 month period. As I understand it I simply fall off the RAVs radar once the 24 months is up.

I am assuming I get no help unless I am destitute - and I can, if needs must, call upon savings or even bring a pension entitlement forward. However my preference is to continue to find work, even if it is not regular.

However I am also thinking seriously of moving abroad, either because the state provision is better or because I am more likely to find work.