Tips for tax returns for apprentices and students

Filing taxes in Switzerland can be challenging, especially for young people who are in training or further education. In this blog post, we will give you an overview of the most important aspects to consider to create your tax return correctly and efficiently.

Basics of tax liability in Switzerland

In Switzerland, every resident is liable for taxes, regardless of income. Apprentices and individuals undergoing further education are also obligated to file a tax return, even if they have earned only a small income.

Earnings

As an apprentice, you have an income from your training; as a student, you might have earnings from internships or part-time jobs. You must declare all the income you earn during the year. This includes small jobs like helping out in a relative's restaurant or earnings as a DJ at small parties.

Specific Deductions

Professional expenses: Costs directly related to your training can be deducted. These include travel costs to the training location, costs for work clothes and work materials. For example, you can deduct half of the cost of a new laptop you purchased for training. Additionally, meal costs and travel expenses on a school day can be deducted like a workday.

Study or further education costs: If you attend further education alongside work, you can also deduct the associated costs. For example, semester fees and specialist literature required for your studies can be fully deducted.

General Tips for Filing Taxes

Collect receipts: Collect all relevant receipts throughout the year to have them ready when filing your taxes. It's better to declare too much than too little; the tax office will eliminate non-deductible expenses.

Meet deadlines: Pay attention to the deadlines for filing the tax return. In most cantons, this is the end of March of the following year, and an extension can be easily requested on the corresponding website.

Use online tools: Many cantons offer online tools and software that make filling out the tax return easier. Usually, you are guided step by step through the tax return.

Conclusion

Filing taxes can be a complex affair, but with the right preparation and knowledge of relevant deductions and regulations, apprentices and participants in further education can minimize their tax burden. By following the tips mentioned above, you can make the process more efficient and less stressful.

If you would like your tax return filled out by specialists, we at Taxea.ch are available with our extensive expertise to assist you.

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