Retrospective Contributions to the Pillar 3a from 2026
Pillar 3a is a key component of private pension planning in Switzerland, allowing individuals to save for retirement, optimise their tax burden, and close pension gaps. From 2026, an important new regulation will come into effect: contribution gaps from 2025 onwards can be closed retrospectively.
The Swiss Federal Council has decided to permit these retrospective contributions from 2026. This measure aims to strengthen private pension provision and offer greater flexibility in retirement planning.
What Are the Benefits of Making Retrospective Contributions?
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Tax Savings: Retrospective contributions can be deducted from taxable income, leading to a reduction in tax liability.
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Flexibility: You can close contribution gaps retrospectively for up to ten years, allowing you to tailor your retirement savings to your needs.
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Enhanced Retirement Provision: By closing gaps, you increase your pension savings and secure a stronger financial foundation for retirement.
Who Can Make Retrospective Contributions?
To benefit from this new regulation, the following conditions must be met:
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Employment: You must earn income subject to AHV contributions in Switzerland, both in the year of the contribution and in the year the gap arose.
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Full Annual Contribution: The regular annual contribution for the relevant year must have been fully paid before making a retrospective payment.
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Contribution Gaps: Only gaps from 2025 onwards can be closed, with a maximum retrospective period of ten years.
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Maximum Contribution Limit: The retrospective contribution is permitted up to the legal maximum amount per year (e.g. CHF 7,258 in 2025).
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No Pension Withdrawals: Retrospective contributions can only be made if no retirement benefits have yet been drawn.
The opportunity to make retrospective contributions to Pillar 3a from 2026 presents a valuable chance to close pension gaps while benefiting from tax advantages. Now is the ideal time to review your pension planning to make the most of these new options.
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