'Late filing of tax returns:_ Is an accountant essential for tax management in Switzerland?'
In the world of tax declarations, timely service and reliable communication are paramount. Unfortunately, a reader from Vaud has had two disappointing experiences with different accounting firms in Switzerland, raising concerns about the quality of service for individual clients.
To ensure a smooth tax preparation process, it is essential to choose a firm that prioritizes individual clients and offers timely service. Here are some tips to help you find a reliable accounting firm for your tax needs:
- Look for firms with strong client reviews and specialization in individual tax preparation. A highly-rated firm like George Dimov, CPA, has a proven track record of providing comprehensive tax services, with over 90% of reviews highlighting their proactive approach, ability to meet deadlines, competitive pricing, and clear billing[2].
- Choose firms that offer personalized and proactive communication. Firms like My Swiss Company SA emphasize client-centric approaches, providing personalized consultation and proactive communication to keep clients informed and ensure smooth tax processes tailored to individual needs[4].
- Consider established international or national firms with expertise in compliance and individual tax matters. Larger firms like EY Switzerland offer comprehensive tax services with expertise in managing tax compliance and risk, although they may be more geared towards businesses[1]. Similarly, Ecovis Switzerland provides a broad range of services, including tax advice and accounting, with a team experienced in working with private individuals and SMEs[3].
- Verify credentials and association memberships. Seeking firms that are part of recognized professional bodies (like TREUHAND|SUISSE for fiduciaries) can add assurance of quality and reliability[3].
Remember, timeliness is the responsibility of both the tax preparer and the client. Sending all relevant paperwork as early as possible (i.e., in January) gives the tax preparer more time to meet the deadline or ask for an extension. Late tax filing can result in penalties, and the intervention of an ombudsman could save a client from extra incurred fees.
Since 2020, most accounting firms operating in Switzerland must be licensed by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA). FINMA licensing ensures that a company is trustworthy and adheres to established rules. Communicating with a tax preparer by email provides a written proof of their response, which carries more weight than a verbal commitment.
If a tax declaration is not prepared in a timely manner despite guarantees, clients can file an official complaint with an ombudsman recognized by the Federal Department of Finance (FDF). The FDF provides information on how to file a complaint regarding late tax filing on their website.
In light of the reader's experience, it is advisable to contact a potential tax advisor before the next tax season to discuss one's specific financial situation and ensure they can handle the tax declaration in a timely manner. The cost for these services depends on the complexity of the financial accounts.
Choosing a tax advisor who specializes in individual clients may help prevent poor service. It is crucial to review client feedback, ask about turnaround times, and confirm transparent fee structures before engagement. With these considerations in mind, you can find a reliable accounting firm for your tax preparation needs in Switzerland.
[1] EY Switzerland: https://www.ey.com/ch/en/services/tax [2] George Dimov, CPA: https://www.clutch.co/accounting-consulting/leadership/george-dimov [3] Ecovis Switzerland: https://www.ecovis.ch/ [4] My Swiss Company SA: https://www.myswisscompany.ch/en/services/tax-consultancy/
Engaging a reliable accounting firm for your personal-finance needs is crucial. To ensure a smooth tax process, consider firms that prioritize individual clients, offer personalized and proactive communication, have specialized in individual tax preparation, and adhere to professional body standards. For instance, firms like George Dimov, CPA, My Swiss Company SA, and Ecovis Switzerland meet these criteria.
