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Glossary

Pillar 3b

Pillar 3b refers to the free, unencumbered pension provision within the Swiss Three-Pillar System. It encompasses all private savings arrangements without a statutory purpose restriction, such as savings accounts, securities portfolios, or life insurance policies. Contributions are generally not tax-deductible; withdrawals are possible at any time without restriction.

At a glance

01

Pillar 3b is not subject to specific federal legislation; general civil and tax law provisions apply.

02

In some cantons, certain life insurance products under Pillar 3b are deductible to a limited extent under cantonal tax law (StHG Art. 9 para. 2 lit. f).

03

Pillar 3b assets form part of taxable net wealth and are subject to wealth tax accordingly.

Frequently asked questions

Whether a life insurance policy under Pillar 3b makes sense depends on the individual pension situation, protection needs, and investment objectives. It offers flexibility and possibly survivor cover, but is less tax-attractive than Pillar 3a. An individual analysis of the overall pension situation is advisable.

Part of the topic

Säule 3a

Sources: Eidg. Steuerverwaltung (ESTV) · Bundesamt für Sozialversicherungen (BSV) · Systematische Rechtssammlung (fedlex)