Frequently asked questions

You will find answers to frequently asked questions about our services and the process here.

Which cantons does your service cover?

Our service covers all Swiss cantons, always considering the local regulations and submission deadlines.

What is the deadline for submitting the tax return?

The submission deadlines vary depending on the canton and usually fall between the end of March and the end of April. With a deadline extension, submission can often be postponed until autumn. An overview of all submission deadlines can be found above under “Deadlines.”

Do I need to apply for a deadline extension myself?

No – whenever possible, we automatically request an extension until the latest possible submission deadline, ensuring enough time for processing.

What happens after the order is placed?

After placing your order, simply upload your documents to our online portal. Our specialists will carefully review everything and prepare your tax return. Then, you’ll receive a draft to review. We’ll only submit it to the tax office once you give us the go-ahead.

Can I ask questions before placing an order?

Yes, you can contact us at any time using the contact form. Please note that we cannot offer full consulting services or in-depth case reviews through this method. For personalized advice and customized optimization, we recommend booking our paid tax consulting service.

How long does it take to process my tax return?

Processing times vary by package. Our Bestseller package is typically finished within 5 weeks. Regardless of which package you choose, we will keep you updated on the status of your tax return.

Which types of income are subject to tax in Switzerland?

This section contains answers to frequently asked questions about income declaration, including those related to salaries, side income, pensions, allowances, and investment income.

Is income earned on the side subject to tax?

Yes, even occasional side income counts as taxable income. This includes income from freelance work, selling items, and platform-based jobs. It must be declared on your tax return.

Are child or education allowances subject to tax?

Yes, both child and education allowances are considered income and must be declared in the tax return.

Is income earned by a minor child through an apprenticeship subject to tax?

No, as long as your child is under 18, they are taxed with you. Their apprenticeship salary counts as their own income, but after deductions, it usually isn't considered taxable income. Therefore, most cantons do not tax it. Starting the year your child turns 18, they must file a separate tax return and declare their full salary with the usual deductions.

How are gains from cryptocurrency investments taxed?

As long as no commercial trading activity is involved, capital gains are considered tax-free private assets. However, these holdings must be declared as assets. Income from mining or staking, on the other hand, is generally considered taxable income.

Are pensions from the second or third pillar taxable?

Yes, pension payments from a pension fund or Pillar 3a are considered taxable income and must be fully declared. However, lump-sum withdrawals are taxed separately at a reduced rate.

Are scholarships subject to tax?

Scholarships for education and studies are generally tax-free, as long as they do not exceed the actual cost of education. Any excess funds or amounts used for other purposes may be subject to tax.

Is income from subletting taxable?

Yes, income from subletting residential property is considered taxable and must be declared. However, related expenses, such as proportional utility costs, can be deducted.

How should income from an undivided community estate be declared?

Until the inheritance is fully divided, any income, such as rent or interest, must be shared among the heirs according to their respective shares and reported on their personal tax returns.

Am I required to pay taxes on unemployment benefits or disability pensions?

Yes. Unemployment benefits, disability pensions, and daily allowances from health or accident insurance are all considered income and must be reported on your tax return.

Is the individual premium reduction subject to taxation?

The individual premium reduction is not taxable, so it does not need to be declared as income. It appears indirectly in the tax return because it is deducted from your annual health insurance premium.

How are inheritances and usufruct rights treated for tax purposes?

Inheritances are usually tax-free, though some cantons impose an inheritance tax. The person holding the usufruct must declare and pay taxes on it, not the owner of the asset.

Are winnings from gambling subject to tax?

Winnings from Swiss lotteries and casinos are tax-free up to 1 million Swiss francs. However, winnings from foreign lotteries or online platforms must generally be fully declared as taxable income.

Tax deductions in Switzerland: What can you claim?

Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about tax deductions, including those related to work-related expenses, healthcare costs, charitable donations, and property upkeep. Note that deduction rules can differ from one canton to another.

Which professional expenses are tax-deductible?

Depending on your location, deductions may include commuting costs, additional meal expenses, professional clothing costs, and training expenses. Exact allowances and limits differ by canton.

Are education or training costs eligible for a tax deduction?

Yes, job-related further education or retraining after completing your initial education is generally tax-deductible, depending on the canton. There may be certain restrictions or flat-rate allowances.

Can I deduct relocation costs from my taxes?

No, private relocation costs are usually not tax-deductible, even when starting a new job. However, certain cantons allow exceptions if the move is required by the employer.

Can dental or medical expenses be deducted from taxes?

Yes, you can deduct medical and dental expenses not covered by health insurance from your taxes, provided they exceed the deductible defined by your canton.

Are home office expenses tax-deductible?

Yes, but only under strict conditions. The home office must be used exclusively for professional purposes and an alternative workplace must be inaccessible. The exact rules vary by canton.

Are there any tax deductions for working from home?

There is no general home office deduction. However, some cantons allow lump sums or partial deductions, such as when an employer does not provide a workplace. In these cases, commuting and meal allowances may no longer apply.

What deductions can be claimed for children in training or education?

An education deduction can be claimed for children in initial education. The requirements and amounts are regulated by the canton. Entitlement ends if education is completed before the end of the year.

Can donations be claimed as tax-deductible expenses?

Depending on the canton, donations to tax-exempt organizations based in Switzerland are generally tax-deductible up to a certain percentage of net income. The date of payment is the decisive factor.

Am I able to deduct all interest payments from my taxes?

No, according to federal law, private interest expenses are only deductible up to the amount of taxable investment income plus CHF 50,000. Cantonal differences may apply.

Can property maintenance costs be claimed as tax-deductible expenses?

Yes, if you own real estate, you can choose a flat-rate deduction or deduct the actual cost of maintaining and preserving the property's value. Typical deductible expenses include repairs, painting, and service contracts.

When can I claim renovation costs as a tax deduction?

The important thing is when you actually pay, not when the invoice is issued. This is known as the payment principle.

Are property management fees tax-deductible?

Yes, administration costs charged by third parties, such as property management companies or tax consultants, are tax-deductible. Sometimes, these costs can exceed the imputed rental value.

Which assets are subject to wealth tax in Switzerland?

You will find answers here to frequently asked questions about declaring assets on the Swiss tax return, including bank accounts, cryptocurrencies, vehicles, and real estate in Switzerland and abroad.

How do I have to declare my vehicle in the tax return?

Private vehicles are considered taxable assets and must be declared at their current market value. Online valuation services, such as Eurotax, provide an assessment basis recognized by the cantons.

Do I have to declare a leased vehicle as an asset?

No, leased vehicles are not owned, so they do not count as assets. Monthly leasing installments cannot be deducted.

Who is required to report a joint account in a cohabiting partnership?

For unmarried couples, each person must declare their share of the account and interest income. Without a specific agreement, an equal split is usually assumed.

A savings account for my godchild is in my name – who has to declare it?

If you have economic control over the account and make the deposits yourself, you must declare it as part of your assets – even if it is intended for the child. A tax-free gift only exists once both legal and economic ownership have been transferred.

How do I declare cryptocurrencies in the tax return?

As assets, cryptocurrencies must be declared as of the reporting date (December 31) at the official tax value of the canton or at market value. Income from mining or staking is generally considered taxable income.

How should advance payments for a property under construction be declared?

Advance payments for new constructions or properties that have not yet been transferred are considered receivables or claims against the seller. These payments must be declared as assets, not as real estate itself.

How are properties under construction taxed?

For properties under construction, the incurred construction value (including land) is usually declared at the end of the year. The taxable value increases as construction progresses. These details are regulated by the canton.

How are vacation homes in other cantons valued for tax purposes?

The valuation of second homes follows the rules of the canton where the property is located. In most cases, the official appraisal or cadastral value is used, which also applies to wealth taxes in your home canton.

How do I declare securities such as stocks or investment funds in the tax return?

Securities must be listed at their official value as of December 31. Interest and dividends count as taxable income. Depending on your case, you can usually reclaim withholding tax via your tax return, even if you are taxed at source.

I am taxed at source – can I reclaim the withholding tax?

In certain cases, yes. As a person taxed at source, you need a subsequent ordinary tax assessment (SOTA) in order to reclaim withholding tax on income such as securities.

Do I have to declare foreign assets?

Yes, you must declare all foreign assets, such as bank accounts, properties, and shareholdings, in your tax return, even if you have already paid taxes on them abroad. Double taxation treaties usually prevent you from being taxed twice.

Am I required to report the imputed rental value of an owner-occupied property?

Yes, homeowners have to declare the official imputed rental value of their own home as income. In return, you can deduct expenses such as maintenance or mortgage interest.

Your taxes. Our job.

Our dedicated tax professionals take care of your taxes with precision.

Transparent pricing

With us, there are no hidden fees. You see the cost upfront – fair, clear, and transparent. This way, you always stay in control of your expenses.

Know-How

Our specialists combine long-standing experience with the latest know-how. From tax returns and advice to complex issues – we deliver the solution that fits you best.

Personalized consulting

We take the time to listen and explain everything in a way you can understand. Personal, honest, and approachable – that’s how advisory makes sense (and even a little fun).

Partner network

Backed by a strong network in fiduciary, legal, tech, and finance, you get everything in one place – easy, fast, and tailored to your situation.

Interdisciplinary expertise

Our team combines expertise from different fields: taxes, law, and finance. This allows us to take a holistic view of your situation and provide the best solution for you.

Compliance

We ensure that you comply with all legal requirements – safely, correctly, and on time. This way, you avoid risks and can focus on what matters most.

Tax experts Taxea.ch
Contact Taxea.chFindea.ch

Do you have any questions?

Do you have a specific concern and did not find your question answered here? Contact us – we are happy to assist you and respond to your inquiry personally.