The tax declaration period is probably the most anxious time of the year, along with the Christmas festivities. Every year, the same fears: being buried under paperwork, afraid of forgetting a document, of making a mistake on your tax declaration, or simply scared to have to contribute too much. Lawrence introduces you to the Swiss tax declaration!
Let’s summarize the tax declaration in 4 acts:
- Gathering the documents
- Completing the tax return
- Respect the deadlines for sending
- Verify the assessment of the tax return
The tax declaration is often entrusted to a lawyer or a trustee to relieve individuals of this burdensome task!
Act 1, “Gathering Documents”:
A large number of documents must be attached to the tax declaration. We strongly recommend that you dedicate a folder, binder or box where they can accumulate. This will avoid panic when searching for them. You can then give the binders to the lawyer handling your declaration.
Documents to include are :
- Income
Salary slips;
Pension certificates;
Proof of benefits.
- Accounts
Bank interest;
Bank statements;
Savings books and statements;
Documents related to possible mortgages.
- Miscellaneous
Certificates relating to maintenance work on real estate assets ;
Third pillar statements;
2nd pillar statements;
Attestations related to donations;
Receipt of donations to political parties;
Unreimbursed medical expenses;
Health insurance summary.
These documents must either be kept by you or they will be sent to you directly by the organization concerned.
Act 2, “Filling the Tax Declaration”:
The declaration must be completed on paper, or online in some cantons. It is important to follow the instructions step by step and fill in the appendices correctly! You will also need to calculate amounts related to the documents you have collected.
You can relieve yourself of this burden by letting a lawyer fill it out for you!
Act 3, “Respecting the deadlines”:
The tax return must be received by the competent tax authority before March 31 of each year. This deadline can be extended, provided that you request it early enough. Otherwise you risk a fine with an unpleasant interest rate!
Act 4, “Verifying the tax return assessment”:
You will receive the assessment of your tax return within a few months. It is important to check that the taxed amount and the deducted amount are correct. If there are any errors, it is imperative that you notify the tax office.
Are you overwhelmed by the tax declaration? Are you afraid of drowning in all these documents and administrative procedures? Don’t panic! Lawrence assists you from A to Z with your tax declaration.