The sales label is not enough
Two offers can show the same daily amount without promising the same benefit. One may compensate actual earnings loss up to a limit. The other may insure a fixed sum whose terms need to be read separately. A Groupe Mutuel group product's conditions illustrate agreed earnings covered as sum insurance for certain named business managers. This does not mean all policies for the self-employed work that way.
A maximum versus a basis for calculation
Imagine two hypothetical quotes showing CHF 150 per day and total incapacity after the waiting period. The first caps payment at the proven loss: with a recognised CHF 95 daily loss and no other adjustments, that ceiling would not support CHF 150. With the second, if the clause actually promises CHF 150 for eligible total incapacity and no restriction applies, the calculation follows that clause. These figures illustrate the mechanism rather than an entitlement to payment.
What still needs to be established
An agreed amount does not remove medical certification, reporting deadlines, exclusions, maximum duration or incapacity thresholds. Ask which evidence can be required when applying and claiming. Clarify how falling earnings, partial return or a payment from another insurer would change the benefit. Do not confuse an annual insured basis, a daily maximum and the net allowance after coordination.
Give both insurers the same scenario
Send each insurer a written example with your legal structure, dates, degree of incapacity and any competing benefits. Ask which clause drives the calculation and which costs the contract leaves to you. Separate income protection from business overheads: an advertised fixed sum does not promise specific reimbursement of your workshop rent or equipment lease.
Why review it after a strong year?
If profit rises or falls sharply, ask whether the agreed income can be adjusted, when a change would take effect and what evidence is required. A figure that has stayed unchanged for years may no longer match your budget even if the premium is affordable. Compare the shortfall for one month of incapacity after the waiting period. The aim is to see what would fund essential expenses in the scenario, rather than to maximise the number shown on a quote.
Sources & further reading
OFSP / FOPH — Assurance facultative d’indemnités journalières
Groupe Mutuel — Conditions générales, exemple d’assurance de sommes