In recent years, the range of services offered by banks to handle their customers' taxes has been greatly reduced. Below we will look at the background to this.
Let the bank continue to prepare the tax return
For example, there is ZKB or AKB only offer the complete tax mandates for 500 or 400 francs respectively. There are also surcharges for real estate or time-based expenses. However, a simple, inexpensive service has been removed from the range at most banks. This is also the case with the cooperative Raiffeisen Bank, which offered the service in certain regions for 180 francs.
Should I have the bank do my taxes?
The question now is: Should I let the bank do my taxes?
Answer: Firstly, taxes are not part of the core business of banks. Although they are extremely relevant for the customer, it is often not worthwhile for the bank. This is why only complete tax mandates with representation (ie the bank signs the tax return on behalf of the customer) are usually offered. Secondly, banks are not independent and can only reduce taxes and take measures to optimize taxes using their own financial products.
The consequences for bank customers
As explained in the introduction, there are no simple and affordable tax advisory services available from banks. This means that the service is becoming much more expensive and is no longer worthwhile, especially for customers with little income or assets. Real estate in the tax return can also be dealt with quickly and does not require a complete tax mandate.
Alternatives to the bank that fills out tax returns?
Fixed price offers and the simple cost structure at tax advisors such as Simpletax are preferable in the professional sector. With additional services for real estate or special taxes, the bank customer still has the entire spectrum at his disposal.
The independence of a tax advisor means that there are no conflicts of objectives when selecting products such as insurance or mortgages. Simpletax The advantage here is that the cooperation with independent partners there is a wide selection of financial instruments.
