Vermögenssteuer
Wealth Tax
Simple Definition
An annual tax on your total world-wide net assets (cash, stocks, cars, property, gold, crypto, expensive jewelry).
Why this matters to Expats.
Unique to Switzerland. You pay tax on what you *have*, not just what you *earn*. However, rates are generally low (0.1% - 0.5% in most places). A millionaire might pay ~CHF 2k-5k/year in wealth tax.
Actionable Intelligence
Real Estate Abroad: Your London apartment counts! But it is usually taxed at a "Tax Value" (steuerwert) which is 50-70% of market value. It also determines your "tax rate" but is not directly taxed in CH (tax exemption with progression).
Debts: Mortgages and personal loans are deductible from your wealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I declare my 401k/IRA?
Complex. Usually recognized pension funds are validly blocked and NOT taxed as wealth. Savings accounts are.
Is Crypto taxed?
YES. You must declare your year-end balance. The Tax Authority (ESTV) publishes official year-end prices for Bitcoin, Eth, etc.
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