VAT

VAT under the effective method or the net tax rate method.

Choose the method for each client. Buchsnap calculates output tax and input tax from the entries, produces the report for each period and locks the period once you’ve filed.

Tax forms and a calculator on a wooden table

In detail

Current rates

8.1%, 2.6% and 3.8% since 1 January 2024, with codes for sales, materials and capital expenditure.

Net tax rate method

For companies using the net tax rate method (Saldosteuersatz), Buchsnap applies the approved rates, with no input tax deduction per receipt.

Periods and deadlines

Quarterly or half-yearly, with an overview of deadlines for each client. The period is locked once the return has been filed.

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Quarterly VAT return following the numbered boxes of the FTA form

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How it works

From entries to a finished VAT return

Buchsnap calculates VAT from your entries: output tax on revenue, input tax on materials, services and capital expenditure. For each period, you get a report laid out by the box numbers on the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (FTA/ESTV) form.

1Choose the methodEffective or net tax rate method for each client, with the approved rates.
2Check the periodQuarterly or half-yearly, with due date and amount.
3Enter them in the ePortalThe amounts appear in the same order as on the FTA form.
4LockOnce filed, the period accepts no further entries.

The figures for the FTA portal

The VAT report shows the amounts by box number on the FTA return form. Since 2025, VAT returns must be filed electronically via the FTA ePortal, and you can transfer the figures there directly from Buchsnap.

Box numbers matching the FTA form
Periods locked after filing
Clients see VAT reports from PLUS upwards

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Which VAT methods are supported?

The effective method and the net tax rate method. You choose for each client.

Can Buchsnap submit the return directly to the FTA?

No. Buchsnap prepares the report using the form’s box numbers; the return itself is submitted through the FTA ePortal.

What happens to entries in a period that has already been filed?

Once a period is locked, any entries posted to it are rejected. Corrections go into an open period.

When do I have to register for VAT?

As a rule, once your annual turnover from taxable supplies reaches CHF 100,000. Our blog article on VAT registration explains the details.

Can my client see the VAT reports?

From the PLUS plan upwards. As the accountant, you see them on every plan.

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