Deducting Training Costs from Taxes: Save up to 18,900 Francs – Here’s How!

Did You Know You Can Save Thousands on Taxes with Training? With the right training, you don’t just advance your career – you can also save thousands of francs in taxes. Many Swiss miss out on this opportunity year after year because they don’t claim their training costs correctly. Depending on the canton, impressive amounts can be deducted – in Basel-Stadt even up to CHF 18,900!

Training Costs: An Underestimated Tax-Saving Potential

Professional training in Switzerland is generally tax-deductible, as long as it is not a primary initial education. This rule opens up significant savings opportunities for anyone looking to advance their career.

Federal Tax: A Uniform Rule Across Switzerland

For direct federal tax, there is a uniform maximum amount of CHF 12,900 for training costs. You can claim this sum regardless of your canton of residence and thus significantly reduce your tax burden at the federal level.

Cantonal Differences: Where Training Pays Off the Most

Cantonal rules vary greatly and can significantly impact your savings:

The Leaders

• Basel-Stadt: With up to CHF 18,900, this canton offers the highest deduction nationwide.
• Most cantons: Between CHF 12,000 and 13,000 are deductible.

The Laggard

• Ticino: Here the maximum deduction is CHF 10,500.

Proof Required: When You Need Receipts

In principle, larger training expenses must be documented with appropriate receipts. However, some cantons offer generous lump sums without proof:

• Schaffhausen and Zurich: CHF 500 without receipts
• St. Gallen: CHF 400 lump sum deductible

Special Case: St. Gallen Supports IT Equipment

St. Gallen goes a step further: here, 50% of expenses for essential IT equipment for training and education can be deducted. In today’s digital working world, this is a highly valuable advantage!

How to Maximize Your Tax Savings

• Tip 1: Compare cantons
  If you’re planning to move, take the different cantonal rules into account.
• Tip 2: Collect receipts
  Keep all invoices, course confirmations, and travel cost documentation carefully.
• Tip 3: Plan strategically
  Spread larger training programs across several tax years to fully benefit from the maximum deduction amounts.

Conclusion: Training Pays Off Twice

Training pays off both for your career and your wallet. Take advantage of the generous tax deductions and invest in your professional future. Your future self will thank you – both professionally and financially!