Work and Lupus
When work gets too much
Often, those affected are already struggling to cope with their workload even before being diagnosed with lupus.
Fatigue, exhaustion and difficulty concentrating impair work performance and take a toll on people with lupus.
It might seem obvious to cut back on working hours or take on a different job, often one that pays less. We would advise against this!
Please note – seek advice!
Under no circumstances should a decision to reduce working hours or change jobs be made without first seeking advice on employment and social security law and obtaining detailed information about the consequences!
Any “voluntary” reduction in working hours or pay will affect any future disability pension you may need!
Why? Because the insured person’s previous working hours are decisive for determining the degree of disability, and their average annual income across all their contribution years is decisive for calculating the disability pension.
Grade IV
A reduction in working hours results in a loss of income.
Get help from specialists
It is essential that specialists document performance.
As soon as it appears that a permanent reduction in working hours or a lower-paid position is unavoidable as a result of lupus, this reduction must be documented in writing by a lupus specialist, taking the relevant criteria into account.
Other points to bear in mind
Part-time work
People who were already working part-time before becoming ill also need to be careful, as the ‘mixed’ method of calculation can result in a very low degree of disability.
Pension fund
A reduction in working hours – and consequently in pay – always results in a reduction in your pension from the pension fund (second pillar). You should also take into account any periods of prolonged incapacity for work.
Therefore:
If you are diagnosed with a chronic condition, we strongly advise you to seek advice on disability insurance. This applies even if you are working part-time or have a partial disability.
Possible advice centres include:
Further information about the IV:
Hospital social services
in the event of hospitalisation
Cantonal Rheumatism Leagues
If you are diagnosed with a chronic condition, it is advisable to seek detailed advice. This is essential if the condition results in a work incapacity of between 20% and 39%, or if you have previously been working part-time!