Pensionskassen-Einkauf

Pensionskassen-Einkauf (pension fund buyback or voluntary contribution) allows Swiss residents to make additional tax-deductible contributions to their Pillar 2 occupational pension to fill coverage gaps caused by career breaks, salary increases, foreign years, or partial employment. These buybacks increase your retirement capital and provide immediate tax deductions, often the single most effective tax optimization strategy for high earners.

For 2026, buyback amounts are calculated by your pension fund based on your maximum potential benefits versus current accrued benefits. Contributions are fully tax-deductible from federal, cantonal, and municipal income, providing 30-45% immediate tax savings depending on your marginal rate. However, there's a 3-year blocking period—if you withdraw Pillar 2 capital within 3 years of a buyback, the tax deduction is reversed. Strategic timing matters: spread buybacks over multiple years to stay in lower tax brackets.

Real-World Example If Christine (age 50) has a CHF 200,000 pension gap and earns CHF 180,000 in Zurich (40% marginal rate), she contributes CHF 50,000 buyback. This reduces her taxable income to CHF 130,000, saving CHF 20,000 in taxes immediately (40% of CHF 50,000). Her pension capital increases by CHF 50,000, and she can withdraw it tax-advantaged at retirement after the 3-year blocking period.