Is the 13th month salary mandatory by law in Switzerland?

It is not mandated by statute for all jobs, but once written into your employment contract or collective labour agreement (GAV), it becomes a binding wage component rather than a voluntary bonus.

Do I get the 13th salary if I resign or leave during the year?

Yes. Because the 13th month salary is deferred fixed pay (Lohnbestandteil), you are entitled to a pro-rata payout for the exact months worked (for example, 6/12ths if you work from January to June).

What is the difference between a 13th salary and a bonus (Gratifikation)?

A 13th salary is unconditionally owed pro rata. A true bonus (Gratifikation under CO Art. 322d) is discretionary and only owed pro rata if explicitly agreed.

13th salary calculator

Calculate your 13th month salary (13. Monatslohn), pro-rata entitlement when starting or leaving mid-year, and 12-month equivalent.

Gross monthly salary (CHF)

Months worked this year

12 monthsUse 12 for a full year.

13th salary

CHF 6'500.00

Total gross this year

CHF 84'500.00

Same income spread over 12 months

CHF 7'041.67

Direct answer

In Switzerland, a 13th month salary (13. Monatslohn) equals one full monthly gross salary (8.33% of annual pay) usually paid in November or December. Under Art. 322d of the Swiss Code of Obligations, once contractually agreed, it is legally owed pro rata (monthly salary × months worked ÷ 12) if you join or leave mid-year.

Key statutory figures & facts

•Full-year 13th salary = 1× monthly gross pay (1/13th or 7.69% of total annual pay)
•Pro-rata formula: Monthly salary × Months worked ÷ 12 (CO Art. 322d)
•12-month equivalent = Monthly salary × 13 ÷ 12 (+8.33% per month)
•Subject to normal AHV/IV/EO, ALV and withholding tax deductions

How it's calculated

13th salary = monthly salary × months worked ÷ 12.
Annual total = monthly × months worked + 13th salary.

Assumptions

A 13th salary is owed whenever agreed in the employment contract or collective labour agreement (GAV/CCT).
Unlike a discretionary bonus (Gratifikation under CO art. 322d), a contracted 13th month salary must be paid pro rata upon termination.

Frequently asked questions

Is the 13th month salary mandatory by law in Switzerland?: It is not mandated by statute for all jobs, but once written into your employment contract or collective labour agreement (GAV), it becomes a binding wage component rather than a voluntary bonus.
Do I get the 13th salary if I resign or leave during the year?: Yes. Because the 13th month salary is deferred fixed pay (Lohnbestandteil), you are entitled to a pro-rata payout for the exact months worked (for example, 6/12ths if you work from January to June).
What is the difference between a 13th salary and a bonus (Gratifikation)?: A 13th salary is unconditionally owed pro rata. A true bonus (Gratifikation under CO Art. 322d) is discretionary and only owed pro rata if explicitly agreed.