Vested benefits and tax planning

Pensions and tax have many interfaces that need to be taken into account, whether in planning, withdrawals of pension assets, purchases, severance payments or in many other situations. Our tax experts contribute their expertise at the interface between taxation and pensions, giving our plan members tax-compliant solutions, as well as a sparring partner.

Our services

Due to years of experience in the tax authorities and as tax advisors, our experts can provide assistance on almost all tax matters, be it with questions relating to tax returns, succession solutions, restructuring or employee share ownership programmes and expenses rules. However, the focus is on issues relating to the interface between pensions and taxation, such as the structuring of pension plans, pension fund purchases, the withdrawal of pension assets at home or abroad and national and international social security issues. Our tax experts often support accountants in this field, as not everyone possesses this specialist expertise. PensExpert does not provide any accountancy or separate tax services, which is why there is no risk of competition when working with us. The expertise of our tax team ensures that tax questions can be properly addressed internally at PensExpert, as well as for our clients and third parties. Our tax experts also disseminate this tax and pension knowledge as lecturers and speakers at various seminar and course providers (including the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts HSLU, SwissAccounting, EXPERTSuisse, TreuhandSuisse, SFW, fisca and many others). Our tax and pension experts also provide interesting in-house seminars in accountancy firms.

Fundamentals of vested benefits in the Swiss tax system

Vested benefits foundations are a key component of the Swiss pension system, especially in the event of job changes or moving abroad. They ensure your pension assets are kept safe and continue to be invested tax-efficiently. Choosing the right vested benefits foundation is crucial, as this has a long-term impact on your financial planning. PensExpert offers individual solutions that are precisely tailored to your needs and objectives. With our expertise, you benefit from maximum flexibility and the optimum tax structure of your pension assets. Contact us and secure your financial future – beyond national borders.

Tax treatment of vested benefits accounts

Vested benefits accounts offer attractive tax benefits as long as the funds remain within the pension system. If so, interest and dividends as well as the vested assets themselves are tax-free, which protects your assets and allows them to grow in the long term. Tax is only levied at the point of withdrawal. If you are resident abroad, the withdrawal is subject to Swiss withholding tax, which is levied at the cantonal rate where the vested benefits foundation has its registered office. Put your trust in our expertise and benefit from advantages specially tailored to your individual situation.

What needs to be declared in the tax return

Vested benefits assets do not need to be declared in your Swiss tax return. Nevertheless, there may be tax issues that need to be considered. Book a consultation now and place your trust in our expertise.

Optimising tax on withdrawals

Withdrawals from a vested benefits account domiciled in Switzerland are not subject to withholding tax, as is the case for someone resident abroad, but rather capital taxes, which vary considerably from canton to canton. Planning the withdrawal strategically can significantly reduce your tax liability. Splitting options, and possibly choosing an advantageous place of residence where you actually live, can be used to gain the maximum tax benefit. PensExpert offers customised solutions to pay out your vested benefits assets in the most tax-efficient manner. Whether you close your vested benefits account or only make a partial withdrawal, for example an advance withdrawal for home ownership, we will assist you in every step.

Cantonal tax comparisons and calculators

Our vested benefits and 3a foundations are based in the Canton of Schwyz, which has the lowest withholding tax rate in Switzerland – a maximum of 4.8% on lump-sum withdrawals. This may give you considerable advantages for a lump-sum withdrawal if you are resident abroad, especially compared to other cantons. Put your trust in our expertise and maximise your financial benefits. Book an appointment to plan your future in a targeted way.