Tax returns for beginners: A guide for Switzerland

Why tax returns are so important

In Switzerland, all adults who are resident or domiciled in the country must submit an annual tax return. This forms the basis for calculating federal, cantonal, and municipal taxes.

The following information must be provided:

• Income (e.g., salary, additional income)
  

• Assets (e.g., bank balances, securities, real estate)

• Professional expenses and deductions

• Insurance premiums

• Debts and debt interest

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When and how must the tax return be submitted?

The tax return relates to the previous calendar year and must generally be submitted by March 31. In many cantons, an extension can be requested.

Forms of submission:

• Electronically via the cantonal online tool (e.g., ZHprivateTax, VaudTax, TaxMe)

• Paper form (still permitted in some cantons)

Tip: Use the electronic version – it is easier, faster, and reduces errors.

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Prepare the most important documents

Before you start filling out the form, you should have all the relevant documents ready:

Checklist

• Salary statement

• Bank and securities account statements as of December 31

• Receipts for work-related expenses (e.g., travel expenses, continuing education)

• Proof of health insurance premiums

• Receipts for donations and support
  

• Certificates of debts (mortgages, loans)

• Rental agreement or land register extract (if you own property)

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Step-by-step guide to filing your tax return

1. Enter your personal details

• Name, address, marital status

• Children and maintenance obligations

2. Declare your income

• Salary according to your salary statement

• Self-employed: annual financial statements or simplified information
  

• Additional income (e.g., freelance work, rental income)

3. Enter your assets

• Account balances, stocks, bonds
  

• Property value (official value)

• Vehicles

4. Claim deductions

• Professional expenses (travel expenses, meals, continuing education)

• Health insurance premiums (only partial deduction possible)
  

• Contributions to the third pillar

• Support payments to persons in need

5. Check and submit your tax return

• Plausibility check

• Avoid error messages (e.g., missing receipts)

• Submit electronically or by mail

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Avoid common mistakes

Mistakes are easy to make, especially when filing your first tax return. Keep the following points in mind:

Typical pitfalls:

• Forgotten additional income

• Deductions not claimed

• Incorrect or missing receipts

• Incomplete information about assets

Tip: Familiarize yourself with your canton's online tool early on. Many offer help texts or integrated calculation tools.

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Tax returns as a student or apprentice

Even people with low incomes must file a tax return as soon as they reach the age of majority. Often, the tax burden is low or zero, but it is still worth doing:

Why even low-income earners should file a tax return:

• Favorable tax assessment for subsequent years

• Possible refund of withholding tax

• Contribution to administrative transparency

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What to do if you are unsure

Not everyone is familiar with tax issues. There are various ways to get help:

Help available:

• Tax return assistance from municipalities or associations

• Online help tools (e.g., EasyTax, Taxinfo.admin.ch)

• We are also happy to help you with your tax return at www.taxea.ch

Free resources:

• Information sheets from the cantonal tax administrations
  

• Instructional videos on YouTube

• Information events

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Tax optimization tips for beginners

• Collect and document deductible expenses

• Meet deadlines or extend them in good time

• Check your contributions to the 3rd pillar (tax-deductible)

• Compare health insurance premiums and adjust them if necessary

• Donations to charitable organizations are tax-deductible
  

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Conclusion: Tax returns made easy for beginners

Filing your first tax return in Switzerland can be challenging, especially if you are not yet familiar with tax law terms and deductions. A solid understanding of the requirements and a systematic approach are crucial. If you reach your limits, we are happy to assist you: As an experienced tax consulting firm, we offer professional support and ensure that your tax return is submitted correctly, on time, and in a tax-optimized manner. For more information, visit www.taxea.ch.