Taxes and optimization in Switzerland

Swiss taxation is complex and varies from canton to canton, which can quickly become discouraging. Here you will find practical tutorials on how to complete your tax return using VaudTax, ZHprivateTax, and other cantonal software, as well as clear explanations on tax calculation, wealth, and withdrawals from the 2nd and 3rd pillars. I also share legal and accessible optimization strategies. The goal: to reduce your tax bill, gain peace of mind, and regain control of your finances.

Recent Articles

Tutorial VSTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 1
May, 10 2026

Tutorial VSTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 1

VSTax tutorial for completing your tax return in the canton of Valais. Clear steps and practical advice.

Tutorial VSTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 2
May, 10 2026

Tutorial VSTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 2

We continue with the Valais tax return: income from movable assets, statement of securities and supplementary form DA-1/R-US.

Tutorial VSTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 3
May, 10 2026

Tutorial VSTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 3

We continue with the Valais tax return: interest expenses, professional expenses, pillars 2 and 3a, personal deductions and wealth.

Tutorial ZHprivateTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 1
May, 10 2026

Tutorial ZHprivateTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 1

ZHprivateTax tutorial for completing your tax return in the canton of Zurich. Detailed steps, practical tips, and points to note.

Tutorial ZHprivateTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 2
May, 10 2026

Tutorial ZHprivateTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 2

Let's continue with the Zurich tax return: real estate, business expenses, debts, pillar 3a, insurance, and sickness or accident expenses.

Tutorial ZHprivateTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 3
May, 10 2026

Tutorial ZHprivateTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 3

The home stretch for Swiss tax returns: donations, other deductions, assets (accounts, securities, other assets), and tax register.

Best way to withdraw your 2nd pillar in Switzerland: how to optimize your taxes?
Aug, 28 2025

Best way to withdraw your 2nd pillar in Switzerland: how to optimize your taxes?

Optimize your 2nd pillar tax by staggering your withdrawal over two years, to save thousands or even tens of thousands of CHF, depending on your canton.

Tutorial VaudTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 1
May, 10 2026

Tutorial VaudTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 1

VaudTax tutorial for completing your tax return in the canton of Vaud. Clear steps, practical advice, and mistakes to avoid.

Tutorial VaudTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 2
May, 10 2026

Tutorial VaudTax Tax Return (2026) - Part 2

VaudTax tutorial step 2 for the Vaud tax return: insurance, securities, and other assets.

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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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