In order to help finance the Swiss retirement system VAT rates are increasing from 1 January 2024. From a Swiss accounting perspective this entails certain points that need to be considered for entities that charge Swiss VAT. It will be important to consider whether the old or the new rate will need to be charged […]
In general, any Swiss entity that sells VAT-able goods or services for at least CHF 100,000 per annum is subject to VAT. When starting a business it is important to try to establish if the turnover for the first year is likely to be above that figure. Furthermore, if the turnover for the first three […]
For 2022 tax returns the official FTA exchange rates are: Income Wealth USD 1 = CHF 0.95497047 CHF 0.925228 EUR 1 = CHF 1.00481626 CHF 0.987450 GBP 1 = CHF 1.1791102 CHF 1.112933 Official foreign exchange rates as of 31 December 2022 are available here. In this list are also included rates to […]
Personal taxes for Foreigners in Switzerland are quite complicated and depend on how long the taxable person has resided in Switzerland for (whether they then have a “B”, “L” or “C” permit), which Canton they are working and residing in, or if they live in a neighbouring country and work in Switzerland every working day, […]
A “B” permit gives a five year residency permit and is normally granted to EU citizens. It is granted to people who demonstrate that they have a work contract lasting at least 5 years, and is thereafter extended if the foreigner fulfils the necessary criteria. The first extension can be limited to a year if […]
For 2021 tax returns the official FTA exchange rates are: Income Wealth USD 1 = CHF 0.9143082 CHF 0.911141 EUR 1 = CHF 1.08101082 CHF 1.036150 GBP 1 = CHF 1.25746523 CHF 1.234099 Official foreign exchange rates as of 31 December 2021 are available here. In this list are also included rates to […]
For 2020 tax returns the official FTA exchange rates are: Income Wealth USD 1 = CHF 0.93808189 CHF 0.883944 EUR 1 = CHF 1.07045366 CHF 1.081550 GBP 1 = CHF 1.20387835 CHF 1.208300 Official foreign exchange rates as of 31 December 2020 are available here. In this list are also included rates […]
If you run a business in Switzerland it may be advantageous for you to consider buying a car on behalf of the company. The car can then also be used for personal purposes. The private use of the vehicle is then counted as a taxable benefit to the user. Car allowance benefits are calculated at […]
Employee shareholdings (as well as stock options) is a well-known and attractive way of motivating and compensating employees, and of aligning their interests with those of other shareholders. This system has traditionally not been as widely used in Switzerland as in other countries, and a large reason for this has been some taxation traps. This […]
The advantage for a company of making provisions is that disclosed profit can then be reduced, and shareholders receive fewer dividends for distribution. This allows the company to keep money internally for its own growth. These reserves can then be used should the company come across a difficult year when this provision can be released. […]