Tax return in Zurich

Private individuals:
In Zurich, the tax return must be submitted by March 31.

Companies:
For companies, the submission deadline is usually September 30.

Extension of deadline: An extension can be requested online or in writing – generally until November 30.
Note: Depending on the canton, fees may apply for an extension.

If the tax return is submitted late without an extension, reminder fees or fines may be imposed.

In the canton of Zurich, there are two options available:

• Digital via “eTax.ZH”: The canton’s online tax solution allows you to complete and submit your tax return fully electronically. It offers plausibility checks, automatic calculations, and saves time.
• Paper form: Alternatively, you can still submit your documents in paper form. However, completing them is more time-consuming, and follow-up questions are more likely.

Tip: If you submit your tax return digitally, no signature is required – provided you authenticate yourself with your electronic ID.

In the canton of Zurich, there are some tax specifics you should be aware of:

• Generous deduction options: In Zurich, all standard Swiss tax deductions apply – including contributions to Pillar 3a, professional expenses, commuting costs, and training costs. Many of these deductions come with comparatively high maximum amounts, helping to reduce personal tax liability.
• No separate property tax: Unlike in many other cantons, Zurich does not levy an additional property tax. Real estate is taxed solely as part of wealth tax. This simplifies the tax return and prevents double taxation of home ownership.
• Tax relief for new businesses: Newly established companies that are economically significant for the canton of Zurich may be partially exempt from cantonal taxes for up to ten years. This regulation creates an attractive incentive for startups and business relocations.
• Individual municipal tax rates in Zurich: Municipal tax rates in Zurich vary widely. While places like Kilchberg have particularly low rates of around 72%, others can exceed 120%. The choice of municipality therefore has a major impact on individual tax liability.
• Attractive corporate tax rate: To strengthen Zurich as a business location, the cantonal corporate tax rate has been reduced in recent years from 7% to 6%. This measure enhances the canton’s attractiveness for companies while also contributing to the long-term stability of tax revenues.

Our specialists also support you in complex or special tax situations, such as:

• Moving into or out of the canton of Zurich
• Foreign income or assets abroad
• Withholding tax with additional SOTA obligation
• Self-employment, part-time freelance work, or secondary income
• Renting out or selling property
• Lump-sum payments from pension funds or life insurance policies

We ensure that your tax return is filed correctly, completely, and in a tax-optimized manner – even in complex cases.