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.
Implementation of the STAF in the Canton of Ticino
On 1 January 2020, the Federal Act on Tax Reform and Financing of the OASI (STAF) (Riforma fiscale e finanziamento dell'AVS, RFFA) entered into force. Among other things, the federal law modified certain provisions of the Federal Direct Tax Act (DBG) and the Direct Tax Harmonisation Act (StHG). In doing so, the Confederation leaves the cantons some leeway in implementing the STAF in their own tax legislation. This article analyses the implementation of the STAF by the Canton of Ticino.
Selected parliamentary business in the tax area at federal level (October 2021)
The Federal Tax Administration (FTA) updated the selected parliamentary business in the area of tax at federal level on 22 October 2021.
Federal Council sets voting date for referendum against the amendment to the Stamp Duty Act
On 13 October 2021, the Federal Council set the referendum proposals for 13 February 2022. Among them is the referendum on the abolition of the emissions levy.
Council of States agrees on bill to abolish imputed rental value
On 21 September 2021, the Council of States, as the first Council, approved the bill.
Federal Council adopts dispatch on amendment of the Value Added Tax Act
At its meeting on 24 September 2021, the Federal Council adopted the dispatch on the amendment of the Value Added Tax Act.
Councils decide on higher tax deduction for children in external care
On 16 September 2021, the Council of States approved the bill. In future, parents will be able to deduct up to CHF 25,000 from direct federal tax for childcare costs.
Federal Councillor Alain Berset signs social security agreement with UK
On 9 and 10 September 2021, Federal Councillor Alain Berset was in London to sign the new social security agreement between Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Federal Council supports abolition of imputed rental value
The Federal Council proposes that Parliament accept the bill of the Committee for Economic Affairs and Taxation of the Council of States (WAK-S), which proposes a change in the system of residential property taxation. At the same time, it proposes amendments to key parameters.