UNIA monthly contribution

Visas, Permits, Passports and Naturalization
1
Hi All!

I'm seeking clarification on the calculation of monthly UNIA contribution, and I appreciate any insights or thoughts you might have.

According to the UNIA website (the online form you complete to register as a member), the monthly contribution for the unemployed is listed as 10.70 Sfr. However, after submitting all requested documents, I received a message indicating that my monthly rate would be the full 59.90 Sfr. After some discussion, it has been agreed that I will officially be considered unemployed after my Garden Leave, which concludes at the end of February.

Now, the dilemma is that UNIA is proposing a monthly contribution of 29.90 Sfr, a 50% reduction from the full rate. While this might seem insignificant to some, it does make a difference when you are unemployed.

I've raised the discrepancy between their website information and the rules they are applying, but I haven't received a clear explanation. If anyone has any insights or suggestions on what I might be missing, I would greatly appreciate your input.

Thank you for your time and assistance.

2
What exactly are you contribution to UNIA for?

3
It’s the monthly fee to join Unia. They refer to it as „contribution“. Unia works to protect employee rights. I found them esp. helpful when RAV was jerking me around a few years ago. They fought in court on my behalf, and I won against RAV.

4
I know very well what UNIA do and have did all my unemployment stuff with them. And they do it free of charge if you are unemployed, so why the fee?

5
No, membership is not free. You can have your unemployment paid through them - this is free. Random advise also free. But in case you need them to step in I.e. write letters for you, defend your rights, etc. - that’s not free.