How to File Your Swiss Taxes Stress-Free: A Step-by-Step Guide

💡 Why filing taxes in Switzerland feels complicated

Tax filing in Switzerland can be confusing because each canton has its own system, forms, and rules. Deadlines and deduction limits vary, and most of the forms are only available in French or German. Many residents — especially expats — feel overwhelmed or unsure if they’re doing it right.

But with the right approach (and the right tools), the process becomes much easier.

✅ Step-by-step guide to filing your Swiss taxes

1. Gather your documents

Start by collecting the essentials:

• Your salary certificate (Lohnausweis / Certificat de salaire)

• Bank statements and investment reports

• Health insurance and Pillar 3a certificates

• Property or rental documents (if applicable)

• Any deduction receipts (commuting, childcare, donations, etc.)

2. Download or access the correct cantonal form

Each canton (Geneva, Vaud, Zurich…) has its own platform. If you’re filing manually, make sure you’re using the correct year and canton version.

3. Report your income and assets

Declare your total income, including salaries, pensions, and side income. Also include your assets (bank accounts, securities, properties).

4. Claim your deductions

This is where many people overpay. Common deductions include:

• Commuting costs

• Health insurance premiums

• Pillar 3a contributions

• Childcare expenses

• Professional costs (e.g. work tools, travel, meals)

5. Review and submit

Before submitting, double-check that all numbers are correct and all documents are attached. Then, file electronically or send the paper forms by post.

⚙️ How FileTax simplifies everything

FileTax guides you step by step, reads your documents automatically, and suggests deductions you may have missed. It’s designed for Swiss residents and expats who want to file confidently — without paying high fiduciary fees.

💡 Join the early access list at filetax.ch/waitlist and make tax season easy this year.