Editorial for the special issue "Implementation of the STAF
At zsis we are pleased to be able to provide an overview of the implementation of the corporate tax reform in the individual cantons. The authors not only provide information on the reduction of the profit tax rate, but also highlight the change from tax privileges to ordinary corporate taxation. They also report on the other cantonal particularities.
Overview of STAF implementation at federal and cantonal level
Following an unprecedented legislative process, the Swiss people adopted the Federal Law on Tax Reform and OASI Financing (STAF) on 19 May 2019, thus restoring international acceptance of our tax system. In addition to the abolition of the special regulations for status companies, the introduction of the patent box, the regulation for hidden reserves at the start of tax liability and the approval of special deductions for research and development have helped to strike the right balance between international acceptance and maintaining the attractiveness of the tax location.
The implementation of the STAF in the cantons of Eastern Switzerland - selected topics of profit and capital taxation
The eastern Swiss cantons of St. Gallen (SG), Thurgau (TG), Appenzell Ausserrhoden (AR) and Appenzell Innerrhoden (AI) have implemented a number of changes in the taxation of profits and capital as part of the STAF as of 1 January 2020. The present article examines individual voluntary measures and measures not harmonized in the STAF. The analysis focuses on the adjustments in profit tax rates and capital tax, past and future tax relief, the additional deduction for research and development expenses, and a selection of special practical features.
Implementation of the STAF in the Canton of Zurich
Although the Canton of Zurich dealt with the implementation of the Federal Law on Tax Reform and OASI Financing ("STAF") at an early stage and issued various practice notes, various implementation issues still arose in the months following its entry into force. This article deals with the current implementation practice of STAF in the Canton of Zurich, with a focus on the change of status and deductions for self-financing. The practical application of the patent box and the research and development deduction is still subject to announcements by the Zurich tax office.
National Council rejects amendment of the Customs Tariff Act
In its session of 4 June 2020, the National Council rejected the amendment of the Customs Tariff Act (abolition of industrial tariffs).
Council of States approves various double taxation agreements
At its meeting on 4 June 2020, the Council of States approved various double taxation agreements (DTAs).
Council of States adopts adjustments to the exchange of information (AIA)
In its meeting on 4 June 2020, the Council of States adopted the adjustments to the exchange of information (AIA).
Federal Council adopts dispatch on the Federal Act on Electronic Procedures in Tax Matters
On May 20, 2020, the Bundesrat passed a bill to digitize tax procedures.
Federal Council wants to strengthen debt capital market with tax reform
On 3 April 2020, the Federal Council adopted a consultation draft to strengthen the debt capital market in Switzerland and to close a gap in withholding tax protection.
Federal Council wants to align taxation of life annuities with interest rates
On 4 April 2020, the Federal Council adopted a consultation draft that aims to adjust the taxation of life annuities.
Federal Council has adopted a dispatch on the popular initiative "Relieve the burden on wages, tax capital fairly
At its meeting on 6 March 2020, the Federal Council adopted the dispatch on the popular initiative "Relieve the burden on wages, tax capital fairly" (unofficially "99% initiative"). The Federal Council recommends that the initiative be rejected without a counterproposal.
