Have your tax return completed – or do it yourself?

I couldn't help but wonder: is a tidy tax return actually better than ...?

There are certain things you can do on your own – but they are more enjoyable with a partner. Doing it alone may be satisfying, but when you know each other well, trust one another and simply let yourself go, it becomes more than that. It's like reaching a whole new climax when the tax assessment finally arrives. Because, of course, we're talking about having your tax return completed for you instead of doing it yourself. Did you have something else in mind?

Today, we explain why it's better to tackle your taxes with help. And we're visited by Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha, who tell us a little something about their own tax numbers.

Let’s talk about tax, baby

It's the same thing year after year: you receive a letter and you're supposed to reveal everything you have to the Swiss tax office. Disclosing all your assets and your entire income is one of the most intimate things you can do.

But let's be honest, when it comes to tax returns, financial striptease feels more like a visit to the gynaecologist: cold and sober, but necessary. That's why we keep our socks on. Then, like the expenses you deduct from your taxes, your tax return is not quite so revealing. After all, you let them have a look because you have to, not because you want to.

Let’s talk about you and me

Every year, the question arises whether you should seek tax advice. Why should you involve someone else in one of your most private matters? Well, because it's more fun together. But also, because we know what we're doing – especially when it comes to taxes.

By the way, here's who doesn't wonder whether or not to have their tax returns done for them: Carrie and her girls. But they'd rather tell you themselves before we explain the advantages of tax advice in more detail. Or you can be like Samantha in Switzerland and simply book an appointment right away.

Should you have your tax return completed for you?

We are not claiming that everyone who has to fill out a tax return needs help. Some people are perfectly happy to take care of this private matter themselves – though perhaps with some technical assistance.

So, should you have your tax return completed for you? Here is some guidance to help you decide:

No, you should take matters into your own hands

If it's quick and easy for you – and you might even enjoy it – you can do your taxes on your own. You don't necessarily need advice for a tax return that could be called a quickie.

This especially applies if...

• ...you lead a very simple (tax) life, for example with two accounts and one payslip.

• ...you hardly ever claim any expenses as deductions.

• ...you have a good knowledge of, genuine interest in and perhaps even a passion for tax matters.

However, be careful not to underestimate your tax affairs. Failing to declare assets is a tax offence – and ignorance is no protection against punishment! Unless all three points apply, we should at least have a chat. Without any commitment, of course.

Yes, you should have your tax return completed

Most people need a little longer to finish their tax returns. After all, it's not always as simple as in (income) and out (expenses). So it's nice when someone with more experience takes the lead. 

We are happy to do so if...

• ...you live a complex life – and whose life is really simple? Changing jobs or moving house, getting married or divorced, having children or becoming self-employed: all of these changes have tax implications. And they can quickly kill the mood.

• ...you have complicated assets. From crypto assets to holiday homes abroad to international stock portfolios: everything has to be included in your tax return. Because if you get involved with Switzerland, you can't hide a thing.

• ...you don't know the limits on deductions. Most people don't know what is allowed, when it becomes risky and what might lead to problems later on. We always know how far you can go.

• ...you'd rather not read your tax assessment carefully. Without expert knowledge, you're unlikely to spot any errors. What's more, you only have thirty days to appeal after receiving your assessment. And who likes to perform under pressure?

• ...you don't always want to stay up to date. This is where most people give up. Issues such as ‘double taxation’ or ‘social security agreements’ affect many people, but you probably have a different idea of enjoyable dirty talk.

All of this can lead to unconscious mistakes, which in the best case scenario are merely unfortunate, but can also result in penalties. Does that sound unexciting? It is. After all, it's not your job to keep track of tax laws. But it is ours.

Good reasons to get professional help with your tax return

Do you have to experience real support with your tax return to truly understand it? Perhaps. But we do our best to give you a feel for it in advance. You deserve to know what you're getting into.

If you let us complete your tax return,...

• ...our checklist will help you gather all the documents quickly and easily. Because that's the only thing you actually have to do yourself.

• ...you can rest assured that we will fill in every field on your tax return and check all possible deductions.

• ...you will be spared the hassle of communicating with tax authorities, as we also assist you with any inquiries or appeals.

• ...you will have support throughout the year for major financial decisions: from getting married to buying a house.

• ...you will be safe from tax offences and, if mistakes have already been made, you will have our help with your voluntary disclosure without penalty.

• ...you can count on us in the long term, because we want to get to know you and your life story.

Perhaps you've already noticed: we're excited about your tax return. That's because we're among those people who actually enjoy doing this kind of work. We'd be happy to explain this to you in a casual initial consultation.

How much does it cost to have your tax return completed?

Of course, outsourcing your tax return is not free. But it is not without value either. You can find our prices here. However, consider what you save by using tax advice: not only taxes, but also time and nerves. And you can never have enough of those.

In most cases, you will save at least a few hundred francs per year by seeking professional tax advice. Unless, of course, you do not pay any tax at all. We will also give you tips on how to save even more. For example, do you have a high income but no pillar 3a ? Then it is probably worth making contributions. 

Partnership pays off – even when it comes to tax returns

As you've seen, taxes can be a really hot topic. If you suddenly feel like doing your own tax return, we wish you every success and hope you enjoy it. But chances are better if we tackle it together. We give you security, help you save time and usually get you money back. And you can just relax and let us fill out your tax return. Sounds good? Then get in touch with us.

And just like that... the ‘tax’ in tax return is the second best thing that ends with an ‘X’!