Basic and supplementary: two different logics
Basic insurance (KVG/LAMal) is compulsory, standardised, and cancelled with effect from 31 December with a short notice period. Supplementary insurance (VVG/LCA) is optional, freely defined by the insurer, and follows the private law of insurance contracts. The cancellation rules therefore differ markedly.
Notice period and expiry of supplementary insurance
Most supplementary policies are cancelled at the contract's annual expiry, with a notice period often of three months. Some policies carry a multi-year commitment: cancellation is then only possible at the end of the commitment period.
Read your general terms and conditions
The exact notice period and expiry date are stated in your general terms and conditions and on your policy. Check them first: a missed notice period renews the contract for another year.
Premium adjustment
If the supplementary-insurance premium increases, an extraordinary right of cancellation is generally provided for in the general terms and conditions. The deadlines may differ from the ordinary regime.
Keep the basic insurance, change the supplementary
You can perfectly well cancel your supplementary insurance while keeping your basic insurance, or vice versa. These are two separate contracts. Be careful, however: a new supplementary insurance may require a health questionnaire and be refused.
Frequently asked questions
What is the notice period to cancel supplementary insurance?
Often three months before the annual expiry, but it depends on the general terms and conditions. Check your policy.
Can I be refused a new supplementary insurance?
Yes. Unlike basic insurance, supplementary insurance (VVG/LCA) can be refused or subject to reservations depending on your state of health.