My Business: How to Correctly File My First Tax Return in Switzerland

Why is the tax return crucial for my business?

In Switzerland, any person or company domiciled in the country must file an annual tax return. This also applies to my business if I’m self-employed or run an SME. The return determines the amounts owed at federal, cantonal, and communal levels.

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What information must I provide?

To complete my business’s tax return, I must declare:

• Business income (salaries, fees, side revenues)
• Assets (bank accounts, shares, real estate)
• Professional expenses (travel, training, office space)
• Health insurance premiums
• Debts and interest paid

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How to correctly prepare the tax return?

1. Gather required documents:
   • Income statements
   • Bank statements
   • Expense and deduction receipts
2. Fill in the return:
   • Electronically (ZHprivateTax, VaudTax, etc.) or on paper
   • Ensure nothing is omitted

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Mistakes to avoid for my business:

• Failing to declare side revenues
• Forgetting supporting documents
• Underestimating business assets

Tip: I can work with a partner like Taxea.ch to check my return, get personalised tax advice, and avoid mistakes.

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Conclusion

From the first year, it’s essential that my business’s tax return is filed correctly. This optimises tax burden, avoids penalties, and builds a solid foundation for future years.

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