In 2025, it’s estimated that a significant share of Switzerland’s economic activity remains informal — with household services (cleaning, childcare, elder care) contributing a meaningful portion. Paying “cash in hand” may feel quick and easy, but the hidden risks are real for helpers and clients alike.
Helpore exists to remove the excuse that compliance is too complicated — by making it automatic.
1) For Helpers: Why Compliant Work Changes Everything
Build a legal work history
A formal contract is proof of income. Landlords, banks, and providers often request employment proof. Helpore stores your contracts and records in one secure profile.
Insurance & protection
With compliant work you’re covered by accident insurance and enrolled in social security (AHV/IV/EO) — essential for retirement, disability and maternity rights.
Retirement — even abroad
Your AHV contributions count even if you retire outside Switzerland. Years of undeclared work mean lost pension rights you can never recover.
Legal peace of mind
Undeclared work risks fines or permit complications. Compliance keeps your record clean.
2) For Clients: The Hidden Risks of Cash-in-Hand
Liability for accidents
If a helper is injured in your home without formal insurance, you may be personally liable for medical costs and lost wages — easily tens of thousands of francs.
Penalties & back payments
Swiss law requires social contributions for any domestic work. Failure to comply can lead to fines and retroactive payments.
Fairness and transparency
Compliance ensures at least the GAV minimum wage and holiday pay — protecting against exploitation and building trust.
Eliminate the paperwork burden
Helpore handles contracts, contributions, insurance and record-keeping so there’s no administrative barrier.
3) The Legal Reality (Switzerland)
Every domestic employer must register their helper and pay accident insurance and AHV — even for small, occasional jobs. Failing to comply is undeclared work with consequences for both sides.
4) The Helpore Difference
Helpore applies a transparent, all-in platform fee, clearly communicated upfront. Included:
- Legally binding contracts in minutes
- Automatic calculation & payment of contributions
- Integrated accident insurance
- Centralised, downloadable records for both parties
By automating compliance, Helpore removes the barriers that push people toward risky cash-in-hand arrangements.
5) The Bigger Picture
Undeclared work undermines safety nets, puts workers at risk, and leaves clients exposed. In a country with strong labour protections, there’s no reason for household services to remain in the shadows.
Helpore ensures every hour is fair, legal and secure — for both sides.
Further reading:
– Risks of Cash-in-Hand vs Benefits of Compliance (infographic below)
