Pillar 3a Tax Savings Calculator
Estimate how much income tax your Pillar 3a contribution saves this year — and how that capital could grow by the time you retire.
Assumes an average annual return of % and level yearly contributions. Max contribution shown updates with your status.
How Pillar 3a saves you tax
Pillar 3a is Switzerland's tied private-pension scheme. Every franc you pay in is deducted from your taxable income, so your tax saving equals your contribution multiplied by your marginal tax rate — the rate on your top band of income. Because Switzerland taxes at federal, cantonal and communal levels, that marginal rate varies widely by canton, which is why Zug and Zurich residents save less per franc than those in Geneva or Vaud.
The capital then grows sheltered from income and wealth tax while it stays in the 3a account, and is taxed separately — at a reduced rate — only when you withdraw it. Spreading withdrawals across several 3a accounts in different years can lower that exit tax further.
Frequently asked questions
How much tax does pillar 3a save?
Pillar 3a contributions are fully deductible from taxable income, so your saving equals your contribution multiplied by your marginal tax rate. At a 30% marginal rate, a CHF 7,258 contribution saves roughly CHF 2,177 in tax that year.
What is the maximum pillar 3a contribution?
Employees affiliated to a pension fund (2nd pillar) can pay in up to CHF 7,258 per year. Self-employed people without a 2nd pillar can contribute up to 20% of net earned income, capped at CHF 36,288. These limits are set federally and adjusted periodically.
Is pillar 3a worth it?
For most taxpayers, yes: you reduce your income tax now, the capital grows tax-sheltered, and withdrawals are taxed separately at a reduced rate. The higher your marginal rate, the greater the benefit.
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