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RDU: how your determining income shapes your subsidy

JMBy Juliette Marsaud·Published 4 March 2026·Updated 12 August 2026

It is the question that comes up most: “How much subsidy will I get?” The answer depends on one key figure, the unified determining income (RDU). Understanding how it is calculated helps you avoid underestimating your entitlement.

The RDU is not your gross salary

The RDU is set by the administration from your latest tax assessment, plus a fraction of your wealth (about 1/15, i.e. 6.7%). Some tax deductions are added back. As a result, two people on the same salary can have a different RDU depending on their savings and situation.

How the RDU sets the amount

The canton places every insured person in one of 9 income groups. The lower the RDU, the lower the group, and the higher the subsidy. The amount then decreases in steps of roughly CHF 10,000 of RDU. The scale in figures shows the exact amount per group.

Three concrete examples

When the RDU can be reviewed

If your situation changes during the year (job loss, separation, retirement, birth), a review is possible without waiting for the next year. See our change in circumstances page. Not sure of your group? Estimate your subsidy in 2 minutes.

Estimate your subsidy in 2 minutes

Free, no sign-up. You can also request a call back from an adviser.

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JM

Juliette Marsaud writes for The Subsidy Journal. She breaks down health insurance and subsidy procedures for Geneva residents. The information is based on official sources (ge.ch) and checked with the FINMA-registered advisers at Swiss Premium Insurance. This website is private and not affiliated with the State of Geneva; only the SAM decides on the grant.