3 pillars and retirement in Switzerland

The Swiss three-pillar system (AVS, LPP, 3a) is at the heart of retirement and savings. However, many Swiss people do not know how to get the most out of it. In this section, I explain each pillar in detail, compare the best 3a solutions (VIAC, finpension, etc.), and share tips on how to optimize your LPP and reduce your taxes. The goal is to give you the keys to preparing for a solid, effective, and tax-efficient retirement.

Recent Articles

Pillar 3b: what it is, and should you really open one in 2026?
May, 10 2026

Pillar 3b: what it is, and should you really open one in 2026?

Pillar 3b in Geneva and Fribourg: insurers sell it as a tax optimization play. In 100% of cases, it's a bad idea. Here's why.

OASI contributions after FIRE: how much do I have to pay?
May, 10 2026

OASI contributions after FIRE: how much do I have to pay?

No salary before 65? You still have to pay OASI contributions. Here’s how much, on what basis, and how to lower the bill if you have a small income.

Switching pillar 3a: when, how much it costs and why
Feb, 19 2026

Switching pillar 3a: when, how much it costs and why

When should you switch of pillar 3a? Exit costs, ideal timing, real returns and concrete examples to improve your long-term performance.

What to do with your vested benefits account when you change employers
Jan, 15 2026

What to do with your vested benefits account when you change employers

Vested benefits and changing employer: do you have to transfer your 2nd pillar or can you leave your money with finpension? The simple, clear answer.

How does retirement work in Switzerland (three-pillar system)?
Oct, 9 2025

How does retirement work in Switzerland (three-pillar system)?

It's great that you want to be FIRE in Switzerland, but you still have to understand the 3-pillar principle of the Swiss pension system.

Buyback 3rd pillar possible (subject to 7 conditions)
Dec, 19 2024

Buyback 3rd pillar possible (subject to 7 conditions)

From 1.1.2025, it will be possible to buy back years in the 3rd pillar in Switzerland. But there are 7 conditions to be met in order to do so...

Interview with Beat Bühlmann, CEO of finpension
Dec, 20 2023

Interview with Beat Bühlmann, CEO of finpension

Discover my interview with the CEO of finpension. I ask him about the future of the company, and about a merger between finpension and VIAC.

Pillar 3a invested in Credit Suisse funds, risk or not?
Nov, 3 2022

Pillar 3a invested in Credit Suisse funds, risk or not?

Credit Suisse has been under stress lately. I explain the impact on your 3rd pillar funds.

finpension strengthens its 3a pillar leading position
Oct, 7 2022

finpension strengthens its 3a pillar leading position

finpension announces two good news at the beginning of this fall: a reduction of fees, and even more independence!

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As usual, I only write and review things that I use in my personal daily life, or that I trust.

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