The principle of investigation as a challenge to fully automated procedures
Since 1 January 2017, Germany has had the option of taxing without any human intervention, i.e. fully automatically. This is contrasted with the legislative project to introduce the possibility of fully automated assessment of customs duties, certain commercial transport taxes and the performance-related heavy vehicle tax in Switzerland. The article examines the possibilities and limits of full automation in largely standardized procedures.
Federal Council opens consultation on the Federal Act on the Implementation of International Tax Treaties
At its meeting on 13 December 2019, the Federal Council opened the consultation process on the Federal Act on the Implementation of International Agreements in the Tax Field (new StADG). The consultation period will last until 27 March 2020.
Federal Council proposes changes to withholding tax
At its meeting on 6 December 2019, the Federal Council opened the consultation procedure on changes to the ordinance on withholding tax. Accordingly, heirs should reclaim the withholding tax on inheritance income in their canton of residence.
Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein adapt their VAT agreement
VAT controls on Swiss taxable persons may in future also be carried out in Liechtenstein and vice versa.
BEPS Convention entered into force on 1 December 2019
The Multilateral Agreement on the Implementation of Agreement-Based Measures to Prevent the Reduction and Transfer of Profits ("BEPS Agreement") has been in force since 1 December 2019. With the help of the Convention, existing double taxation agreements can be adapted to the recommendations from the BEPS project.
Federal Council adopts dispatch on the reimbursement of unlawfully levied VAT on Billag fees
At its meeting on 27 November 2019, the Federal Council adopted the dispatch for a new Federal Act on the flat-rate remuneration of unlawfully levied value-added tax on reception fees for radio and television.
Federal Council adopts the dispatch on the amendment of the AIA Act
At its meeting on 20 November 2019, the Federal Council adopted the dispatch on the amendment of the Federal Act on the International Automatic Exchange of Information in Tax Matters (AIAG).
Implementation of STAF: Regulations enter into force on 1 January 2020
At its meeting on 13 November 2019, the Federal Council approved three ordinances on the Federal Tax Reform and OASI Financing Act (STAF). These amendments concerning the tax part will enter into force on 1 January 2020.
WAK of the National Council for the abolition of the turnover tax and the insurance tax or reform of the withholding tax
In its media release of 5 November 2019, the National Council's WAK provided information on the parliamentary initiative on turnover tax and insurance tax, on the reform of withholding tax and on the neutrality of legal forms in corporate taxation.
