Tax and the City

By Julia TatjeBusiness Education Investing How To

Tax and the City episodes

October 2119 - Moving to Switzerland? What You Need to Do After You Arrive with Serge Baur
The One Where Moving to Switzerland Was the Easy Part
You’ve moved to Switzerland.
The job has started. The boxes are unpacked. You have a Swiss address, perhaps a Swiss bank account and a growing collection of official-looking letters.
So why does it still feel like there are a hundred things you don’t understand?
Because moving to Switzerland is one thing. Actually settling in is something else entirely.
In this episode, Julia Tatje speaks with Serge Baur, founder of Beyond Services, about what happens after the relocation itself is technically complete and real life in Switzerland begins.
From residence permits and health insurance to official letters, different authorities and the assumption that HR has organised everything, Serge explains some of the most common traps international professionals encounter after arriving in Switzerland.
And sometimes the problem isn’t a lack of information. It’s having information from ten different places and nobody connecting the dots.
They also talk about the life changes that can quietly trigger new administrative and tax consequences, why advice from a colleague may not apply to you, and why that official letter sitting unopened on the kitchen table probably deserves another look.
Because Switzerland is very organised.
It’s just organised into a lot of different boxes.
In This Episode
What actually happens after you move to Switzerland
Why relocation support and settling into Swiss life are two different things
The most common mistakes internationals make after arriving
Why you shouldn’t assume your employer or HR has organised everything
Why registering with one Swiss authority doesn’t necessarily update everyone else
The importance of understanding official letters and deadlines
How moving canton, getting married, having children or changing jobs can create new obligations
Why your colleague’s experience may not apply to your situation
Real-life stories of health insurance, missed letters, Swiss recycling and other “only in Switzerland” moments
Why information from Google or ChatGPT still needs to be understood in the context of your individual situation
What newcomers should prioritise during their first weeks and months in Switzerland
Why “I pay withholding tax” doesn’t necessarily mean there is nothing else to consider
The importance of keeping, reading and understanding official documents
Why finding the right support early can save a lot of confusion later
The Bottom Line
If you’ve just arrived in Switzerland: Don’t assume everything happens automatically. Find out what you are responsible for and keep track of your deadlines.
If you receive an official letter: Keep it, but more importantly, read it and understand whether you need to do something. The “I’ll deal with that later” pile can become expensive surprisingly quickly.
If something changes in your life: A new address, job, marriage, child or other personal change can affect more than one part of your Swiss administration. Tell the relevant people and ask what else may be affected.
If you’re paying withholding tax:* Don’t automatically assume your Swiss tax position is done and dusted. Get clarity on your individual situation early rather than waiting until the following year. Julia specifically makes this point in the episode, recommending that newcomers understand their tax position within their first months in Switzerland.
And if you don’t know what to do: Ask. You don’t need to understand every Swiss system immediately, but you do need to recognise when something deserves attention.
Host and Guest
Julia Tatje – Swiss tax specialist for internationals and founder of taxum AG.
Serge Baur – Founder of Beyond Services, providing practical life, administrative and HR support in Switzerland. After more than seven years working in Human Resources, Serge recognised that international employees often had plenty of information but lacked one reliable point of contact who could understand the bigger picture. Today he supports companies, international employees and individuals with areas including Swiss administration, official correspondence, work permits and visas, insurance questions, pensions and social security, onboarding and everyday life in Switzerland.
Beyond Services works alongside specialist advisers rather than replacing them. Where legal, tax or other specialist expertise is required, Serge connects clients with the appropriate professionals.
Website: https://www.beyondservices.ch/
Listen and Connect
→ Website: https://www.taxum.ch/
→ LinkedIn: Julia Tatje – https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-tatje/
→ Blog "Tax and the City": https://www.taxum.ch/blog
→ Podcast "Tax and the City": https://youtube.com/@tax_and_the_city?si=9Mn0bcLW-NaW7Xez
→ Contact Julia: https://www.taxum.ch/kontakt
→ Beyond Services: https://www.beyondservices.ch/
Music
Song: InRp – Golden Hour
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Es7EVrnbiBU
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, investment or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding your individual circumstances.
30 min
October 0718 - Traumhaus, Umbau, Steuerfalle: Wenn die neue Küche plötzlich nicht abziehbar ist, mit Jürg Furter
Die Folge, in der wir uns fragen: Traumhaus oder Geldfalle?
Orange Fliesen, dunkles Holz und eine Küche aus den Achtzigern: Für die einen ein Grund, die Besichtigung sofort zu verlassen. Für die anderen der Beginn einer grossen Liebesgeschichte.
Doch zwischen «Hier steckt Potenzial drin» und «Wir renovieren nur schnell» liegen oft mehr Kosten, Entscheidungen und Überraschungen als gedacht.
In dieser Folge von Tax and the City spricht Julia Tatje mit Immobilienunternehmer Jürg Furter über Renovationen in der Schweiz - und darüber, warum Bauchgefühl allein weder eine Baustelle noch eine Finanzierung trägt.
Die beiden sprechen über versteckte Mängel, realistische Budgets, Steuerfallen und die Frage, welche Investitionen den Wert einer Immobilie tatsächlich steigern. Auch die Abschaffung des Eigenmietwerts und mögliche Folgen für Renovationen und den Immobilienmarkt kommen zur Sprache.
Zwischen orangefarbenen Badezimmern, Handwerker-Pannen und der Idee, fehlendes Eigenkapital mit Kreditkarten zu finanzieren, wird schnell klar:
Ein Haus darf Liebe auf den ersten Blick sein - die Zahlen verdienen trotzdem einen zweiten.
In dieser Folge
Warum unattraktive Immobilien echtes Potenzial haben können
Weshalb «Wir renovieren nur schnell» selten ein guter Plan ist
Was werterhaltende und wertvermehrende Investitionen unterscheidet
Warum eine neue Küche auch steuerlich eine Überraschung werden kann
Worauf Banken bei der Finanzierung von Renovationen achten
Warum Kaufpreis und Eigenkapital allein noch kein tragfähiges Budget ergeben
Welche Rolle finanzielle Reserven und die langfristige Tragbarkeit spielen
Wie die Abschaffung des Eigenmietwerts Renovationsentscheidungen beeinflussen könnte
Warum erfahrene Fachleute und die richtigen Handwerker entscheidend sind
Welche Chancen ältere Immobilien für Familien und Investoren bieten können
Das Fazit
Für Kaufinteressierte: Hässliche Fliesen lassen sich ersetzen. Versteckte Schäden, eine unrealistische Finanzierung oder fehlende Reserven können deutlich schwieriger werden. Wer Potenzial erkennen will, sollte auch hinter die Fassade schauen lassen.
Für Eigenheimbesitzer:innen: Eine Renovation beginnt mit einer klaren Planung. Was muss gemacht werden, was ist ein persönlicher Wunsch und welche Arbeiten lassen sich sinnvoll verbinden? Budget, Finanzierung und steuerliche Fragen gehören von Anfang an dazu.
Für Investor:innen: Nicht jede teure Verbesserung steigert den Wert einer Immobilie im gleichen Umfang. Entscheidend sind Zustand, Lage, Nachfrage und eine klare Strategie für Vermietung oder Verkauf.
Für alle: Niemand muss gleichzeitig Bauprofi, Finanzierungsexpert und Steuerberater sein. Die richtigen Fachpersonen früh einzubeziehen, kann helfen, teure Fehlentscheidungen zu vermeiden.
Host und Gast
Julia Tatje -- Steuerexpertin für Privatpersonen mit komplexen Lebensrealitäten. Gründerin der taxum AG, Personal Tax Boutique in Zürich.
Jürg Furter -- Immobilienunternehmer mit Erfahrung in der Immobilienfinanzierung und der Renovation älterer Liegenschaften. Im Gespräch erzählt er, wie aus dem Umbau seines eigenen Hauses eine berufliche Leidenschaft wurde - und weshalb er dort Potenzial sieht, wo andere nur alte Küchen und orange Fliesen entdecken.
Website: https://www.atanos.ch/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jürgfurter
Hören und Kontakt
→ Website: https://www.taxum.ch/
→ LinkedIn: Julia Tatje - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-tatje/
→ Blog "Tax and the City": https://www.taxum.ch/blog
→ Podcast "Tax and the City": https://youtube.com/@tax_and_the_city?si=YE6SgrVTCu4pBUsc
→ Kontaktiere Julia: https://www.taxum.ch/kontaktatanos
Song: InRp - Golden Hour
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: InRp - Golden Hour (Vlog No Copyright Music)
Dieser Podcast dient ausschliesslich der Information und stellt keine Rechts- oder Steuerberatung dar. Bitte konsultiere eine qualifizierte Fachperson für deine individuelle Situation.
41 min
September 2317 - Liebe, Geld und Unabhängigkeit - weisst du wirklich, wo du stehst?
Die Folge, in der wir uns fragen: Warum überlassen so viele Frauen ihre Finanzen dem Partner - bis das Leben plötzlich anders läuft als geplant?
Wir planen Karrieren, Familien und unsere Zukunft - aber wenn es um Geld, Vorsorge oder finanzielle Absicherung geht, fällt erstaunlich oft dieser Satz: „Darum kümmert sich mein Partner.“
Doch was passiert bei einer Trennung, einem Todesfall oder wenn jahrelange Teilzeitarbeit plötzlich eine grosse Lücke in der Altersvorsorge hinterlässt?
In dieser Folge von Tax and the City spricht Julia Tatje mit der Finanzplanerin und Finelles-Gründerin Clara Creitz über finanzielle Unabhängigkeit, Teilzeitarbeit, Vorsorgelücken, die Heiratsstrafe und die finanziellen Risiken im Konkubinat.
Die beiden sprechen darüber, warum Finanzplanung keine einmalige Aufgabe ist, weshalb Paare offener über Geld reden sollten und wie Care-Arbeit, Einkommen, Steuern und Altersvorsorge miteinander zusammenhängen. Und darüber, warum finanzielle Verantwortung nicht bedeutet, alles selbst wissen zu müssen - sondern zu verstehen, wo man steht.
Zwischen persönlichen Erfahrungen, realen Fällen aus der Beratung und erstaunlich offenen Gesprächen wird schnell klar:
Finanzielle Unabhängigkeit beginnt nicht mit einem bestimmten Kontostand - sondern mit dem Hinschauen.
In dieser Folge
Warum sich viele Frauen erst spät mit ihren Finanzen beschäftigen
Wie Angst, Scham und Glaubenssätze den Umgang mit Geld beeinflussen
Warum Finanzbildung, konkrete Planung und frühes Handeln so wichtig sind
Welche Folgen Teilzeitarbeit für Einkommen, Pensionskasse und Altersvorsorge hat
Wie Care-Arbeit und finanzielle Verantwortung in einer Partnerschaft fair ausgeglichen werden können
Was der Vorsorgeausweis zeigt - und welche Informationen darin fehlen
Welche finanziellen Risiken Scheidung, Todesfall und das Konkubinat mit sich bringen
Warum offene Gespräche über Geld Beziehungen stärken können
Das Fazit
Für Frauen: Finanzielle Unabhängigkeit bedeutet nicht, jede Börsenbewegung zu verfolgen oder die Steuererklärung allein auszufüllen. Entscheidend ist, die eigene finanzielle Situation zu kennen und wichtige Entscheidungen bewusst mitzutreffen.
Für Paare und Familien: Wer reduziert, Care-Arbeit übernimmt oder beruflich zurücksteckt, trägt langfristige finanzielle Folgen. Diese Auswirkungen sollten gemeinsam besprochen und fair ausgeglichen werden.
Für Konkubinatspaare: Die mögliche Steuerersparnis ist nur ein Teil der Rechnung. Fehlende Leistungen bei Tod oder Invalidität sowie mögliche Erbschaftssteuern können erhebliche finanzielle Risiken verursachen.
Für alle: Finanzplanung ist nichts, was man einmal erledigt und danach abhakt. Sie sollte bei Veränderungen wie Heirat, Familiengründung, Teilzeitarbeit, Selbständigkeit, Immobilienkauf, Scheidung oder Pensionierung überprüft werden.
Host und Gast
Julia Tatje -- Steuerexpertin für Privatpersonen mit komplexen Lebensrealitäten. Gründerin der taxum AG, Personal Tax Boutique in Zürich.
Clara Creitz -- ist Gründerin von Finelles, einer unabhängigen, honorarbasierten Finanzberatung und Bildungsmarke für Frauen und Paare in der Schweiz. Als zertifizierte Finanzplanerin (CFP®) mit eidg. Fachausweis hilft sie Frauen dabei, ihre Finanzen selbstbestimmt in die Hand zu nehmen - von der Vorsorgeplanung bis zum Investieren.
Website: finelles.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claracreitz/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/finellescom
Gemeinsam sprechen Julia und Clara darüber, warum finanzielle Verantwortung nicht mit Perfektion beginnt - sondern mit Transparenz, Klarheit und dem Mut, hinzuschauen.
Hören und Kontakt
→ Website: https://www.taxum.ch/
→ LinkedIn: Julia Tatje - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-tatje/
→ Blog "Tax and the City": https://www.taxum.ch/blog
→ Podcast "Tax and the City": https://youtube.com/@tax_and_the_city?si=YE6SgrVTCu4pBUsc
→ Kontaktiere Julia: https://www.taxum.ch/kontakt
→ Erfahre mehr über Clara und Finelles: https://www.finelles.com/
Song: InRp - Golden Hour
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: InRp - Golden Hour (Vlog No Copyright Music)
Dieser Podcast dient ausschliesslich der Information und stellt keine Rechts- oder Steuerberatung dar. Bitte konsultiere eine qualifizierte Fachperson für deine individuelle Situation.
41 min
September 0916 - American in Switzerland? These Tax & Investment Traps Could Cost You with Arielle Tucker
The One Where Swiss Tax Planning Meets American Rules
Moving to Switzerland can change your life.
Unfortunately, it doesn't end your relationship with the US tax system.
For US citizens and green card holders living in Switzerland, perfectly sensible financial decisions can have completely different consequences on the other side of the Atlantic.
In this episode, Julia Tatje speaks with Arielle Tucker, CFP® and IRS Enrolled Agent at Connected Financial Planning, about what happens when Swiss and US tax and financial planning collide.
From Pillar 3a and investment funds to green cards, Swiss property and even exchange-rate movements, Arielle explains why US-connected individuals often have to play by a completely different set of financial rules.
They also discuss one of the biggest mistakes internationals make: waiting until after a decision has been made to ask about the tax consequences.
Because in cross-border planning, what looks clever in Switzerland can become surprisingly expensive in the US.
In This Episode
Why US citizens abroad still have US tax filing obligations
Why Swiss tax-efficient planning doesn't always work for Americans
The problem with Pillar 3a and certain foreign investments for US taxpayers
PFICs and why seemingly normal investment funds can create problems
What green card holders need to know before leaving the US system
Why an expired green card doesn't necessarily end US tax obligations
How Swiss property can create unexpected US tax consequences
Why exchange-rate movements can create taxable gains on paper
The potential complications of bringing a US LLC to Switzerland
Why US-Swiss tax treaties don't always protect Americans from double taxation
Why advice from colleagues, neighbours or the internet can be dangerously incomplete
How proactive cross-border planning can create clarity and peace of mind
The Bottom Line
If you're a US citizen living in Switzerland: Don't assume that something recommended to everyone else in Switzerland is automatically right for you. Your US tax obligations change the equation.
If you have a green card: Understand your ongoing filing obligations and get advice before making decisions about relinquishing it.
If you're investing or buying property: Look at the Swiss and US consequences before making the transaction, not afterwards.
If you're planning for retirement: Swiss tax advantages and US tax advantages don't necessarily align. Pillar 2, Pillar 3a and investment structures need particular care.
For everyone with a cross-border life: Good planning isn't about avoiding every tax. It's about understanding both systems and making informed decisions before your options disappear.
Host and Guest
Julia Tatje – Swiss tax specialist for internationals and founder of taxum AG.
Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA – Founder of Connected Financial Planning, specializing in cross-border financial and US tax planning for Americans living in Europe. Arielle has more than a decade of experience advising globally mobile professionals and families and is also the host of Passport To Wealth ® and author of The Expat Money Playbook (Wiley).
Website: https://www.connectedfinancialplanning.com/
Listen and Connect
→ Website: https://www.taxum.ch/
→ LinkedIn: Julia Tatje – https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-tatje/
→ Blog "Tax and the City": https://www.taxum.ch/blog
→ Podcast "Tax and the City": https://youtube.com/@tax_and_the_city
→ Contact Julia: https://www.taxum.ch/kontakt
→ Connected Financial Planning: https://www.connectedfinancialplanning.com/
→ Passport To Wealth®: https://www.passporttowealth.com/
→The Expat Money Playbook (Wiley): https://www.passporttowealth.com/expat-money-playbook
Song: InRp – Golden Hour
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Es7EVrnbiBU
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, investment or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding your individual circumstances.
36 min
August 2615 - Was passiert mit deiner Wohnung, wenn dein Leben plötzlich woanders stattfindet? mit Andreas Delis
Die Folge, in der wir uns fragen: Was passiert mit deiner Wohnung, wenn dein Leben plötzlich woanders stattfindet?
Ein Job im Ausland. Eine Weltreise. Ein Sabbatical. Oder eine Renovation, die dich für ein paar Monate aus den eigenen vier Wänden zwingt. Die Entscheidung, loszugehen, fällt oft leichter als die Frage: Was mache ich mit meiner Wohnung?
Julia Tatje spricht mit Andreas Delis, Gründer von Smart Depart, über die Herausforderungen des möblierten Vermietens, warum Vertrauen dabei wichtiger ist als perfekte Fotos und weshalb der grösste Stress oft nicht im Ausland, sondern kurz vor der Abreise entsteht. Natürlich geht es auch um die steuerlichen Fragen, die viele erst dann bemerken, wenn bereits die erste Miete auf dem Konto eingeht.
In dieser Folge
Warum möbliertes Vermieten ganz anders funktioniert als eine normale Wohnungsvermietung
Welche Fehler Menschen kurz vor dem Umzug ins Ausland am häufigsten machen
Was Smart Depart übernimmt – von Übergaben bis zur Kommunikation mit der Verwaltung
Weshalb Vertrauen wichtiger ist als Airbnb-Bewertungen
Wann Mieteinnahmen steuerlich relevant werden und warum sich eine kurze Beratung lohnt
Warum Renovationen genauso ein Grund für Zwischenvermietung sein können wie ein Auslandaufenthalt
Wie aus organisatorischem Chaos wieder mentale Ruhe wird
Das Fazit
Für alle, die ins Ausland gehen oder eine Auszeit planen: Die Wohnung muss kein Grund sein, auf ein Abenteuer zu verzichten. Mit der richtigen Vorbereitung und einer verlässlichen Ansprechperson lässt sich auch das Zuhause auf Zeit in guten Händen wissen.
Für Eigentümerinnen und Eigentümer sowie Mieter: Zwischenvermietung ist oft einfacher, als viele denken – rechtlich, organisatorisch und auch steuerlich. Entscheidend ist, die wichtigsten Punkte frühzeitig zu klären.
Und aus steuerlicher Sicht: Wer seine Wohnung vermietet, sollte die steuerlichen Auswirkungen nicht erst nachträglich prüfen. Ein kurzes Gespräch vor der Vermietung kann spätere Überraschungen vermeiden.
Host und Gast
Julia Tatje – Steuerexpertin für Privatpersonen mit komplexen Lebensrealitäten. Gründerin der taxum AG, Personal Tax Boutique in Zürich.
Andreas Delis – Gründer von Smart Depart, einem Zürcher Unternehmen, das Menschen dabei unterstützt, ihre möblierte Wohnung während eines Auslandaufenthalts, Sabbaticals oder einer Renovation professionell zwischenzuvermieten.
Von der Mietersuche über Übergaben bis zur Kommunikation mit Verwaltungen übernimmt Smart Depart die komplette Organisation – damit sich Kundinnen und Kunden auf ihr neues Kapitel konzentrieren können.
Website: https://www.smartdepart.ch
Hören und Kontakt
→ Website: https://www.taxum.ch/
→ LinkedIn: Julia Tatje – https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-tatje/
→ Blog "Tax and the City": https://www.taxum.ch/blog
→ Podcast "Tax and the City": https://youtube.com/@tax_and_the_city?si=YE6SgrVTCu4pBUsc
→ Kontaktiere Julia: https://www.taxum.ch/kontakt
Song: InRp - Golden Hour
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: InRp - Golden Hour (Vlog No Copyright Music)
Dieser Podcast dient ausschliesslich der Information und stellt keine Rechts- oder Steuerberatung dar. Bitte konsultiere eine qualifizierte Fachperson für deine individuelle Situation.
30 min
August 1214 - I Couldn't Help But Wonder... Am I Actually Insured, or Just Hoping for the Best? with Carole Janser
The One Where Insurance Isn't Boring Anymore
Insurance isn't exactly a topic people get excited about.
Until something goes wrong.
A workplace accident. A lawsuit. A cyberattack. A stolen wallet. A long illness.
In this episode, Julia Tatje sits down with Carole Janser, insurance specialist at SIFA , to uncover the biggest insurance misconceptions in Switzerland especially for internationals, entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals.
Together they explain why Switzerland expects individuals to take responsibility for their own protection, why many expats have a false sense of security, and which insurance policies are actually essential.
Carole shares real-life examples of claims she has seen throughout her career, from liability cases worth millions to cybercrime, employment disputes and unexpected gaps in salary protection.
The conversation also explores why insurance isn't simply about financial compensation, but it's about having experts who guide you through life's most stressful moments.
Whether you've just moved to Switzerland, are starting a business, or simply want to avoid expensive mistakes, this episode will help you understand which risks matter and how to protect yourself.
In This Episode
Why Switzerland isn't as "fully insured" as many expats believe
The biggest insurance mistakes internationals make
Why private liability insurance is essential in Switzerland
What health insurance does not cover
Why salary protection surprises many employees
Legal protection insurance explained
Insurance tips for founders and self-employed professionals
Cyber attacks, phishing and why insurance is more than money
Why choosing the right insurance matters more than choosing the cheapest
The emotional value of having someone guide you through a crisis
Common misconceptions about Swiss insurance
Why expert advice saves money, stress and sleepless nights
The Bottom Line
If you've recently moved to Switzerland: Don't assume everything is automatically covered. Switzerland expects individuals to manage many risks themselves.
If you're employed: Check whether your employer offers salary continuation insurance.
If you're self-employed or starting a company: Make sure you have professional liability and appropriate legal protection from day one.
If you already have insurance: Review your policies regularly. Many people don't actually know what they're covered for.
For everyone: Insurance isn't about expecting the worst, it's about protecting your freedom, your finances and your peace of mind.
Host and Guest
Julia Tatje – Swiss tax specialist for internationals and founder of taxum AG.
Carole Janser – Insurance specialist at SIFA GmbH with more than 15 years of experience in the insurance industry. Having worked internationally, including in Dubai and Switzerland, she advises individuals, entrepreneurs and companies on risk management and insurance solutions tailored to their needs.
SIFA is an independent insurance brokerage helping clients compare insurance providers, identify coverage gaps and build personalized protection for every stage of life and business.
Website: https://www.sifa.swiss/en/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-janser-289b6053/
Listen and Connect
→ Website: https://www.taxum.ch/
→ LinkedIn: Julia Tatje – https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-tatje/
→ Blog "Tax and the City": https://www.taxum.ch/blog
→ Podcast "Tax and the City": https://youtube.com/@tax_and_the_city
→ Contact Julia: https://www.taxum.ch/kontakt
→ SIFA: https://www.sifa.swiss/en/about-us/
Song: InRp – Golden Hour
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Es7EVrnbiBU
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding your individual circumstances.
47 min
July 2913 - Moving to Switzerland Without the Stress - Relocation, Taxes & Expat Life with Julia Kaufmann
The One Where Relocation Is About Much More Than Moving Boxes
Moving to Switzerland often looks exciting from the outside.
A new job. A new country. A fresh start.
But between finding a home, registering with the authorities, understanding the Swiss school system, navigating endless paperwork, and figuring out taxes, excitement can quickly turn into overwhelm.
In this episode, Julia Tatje sits down with Julia Kaufmann, co-founder of Alliance Relocation, who has spent years helping international professionals and their families successfully settle into life in Switzerland.
Together they explore what really happens during an international move - not just the logistics, but the emotional side of starting over.
Julia Kaufmann shares stories from years of guiding expats through one of life's biggest transitions, from housing searches and school choices to cultural misunderstandings and surprising administrative challenges.
The conversation also explores how relocation and taxes are closely connected and why the decisions you make before you move can have long-term financial consequences.
Whether you're moving to Switzerland, leaving Switzerland, or supporting international employees, this episode offers practical insights that can save time, money, and unnecessary stress.
In This Episode
Why relocating is far more emotional than most people expect
The biggest mistakes internationals make when moving to Switzerland
Why choosing where you live affects far more than your commute
Common misconceptions about Swiss culture and daily life
Why relocation isn't just about finding an apartment
How the Swiss education system surprises many international families
The administrative processes that overwhelm many newcomers
Why taxes should be part of relocation planning from day one
Childcare, schools and the real cost of family life in Switzerland
Why expert advice saves both money and stress
What many expats forget when leaving Switzerland
How proper planning helps protect your pension and tax position
The Bottom Line
If you're planning a move to Switzerland: Start planning earlier than you think. Housing, taxes, schools and administration are all connected.
If you're choosing where to live: Don't focus only on taxes. Lifestyle, schools, commuting and housing costs all matter.
If you're relying on your employer to organise everything: They often help but you're still responsible for understanding your obligations.
If you're leaving Switzerland: Don't forget your taxes, pension benefits and deregistration. Good planning before departure can save significant money.
For everyone: Relocation isn't simply about changing your address. It's about building confidence in a completely new environment.
Host and Guest
Julia Tatje - Swiss tax specialist for internationals and founder of taxum AG.
Julia Kaufmann - Co-founder of Alliance Relocation and relocation expert with more than 20 years of international customer service experience. Through Alliance Relocation, she helps professionals, executives and families successfully relocate to and from Switzerland, supporting them with housing searches, school selection, administrative procedures and every practical aspect of settling into a new country.
Alliance Relocation specialises in creating smooth relocation experiences while helping clients avoid common pitfalls and feel at home in Switzerland from day one.
Website: https://www.alliance-relocation.ch/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliakaufmann/?locale=en
Listen and Connect
→ Website: https://www.taxum.ch/
→ LinkedIn: Julia Tatje – https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-tatje/
→ Blog "Tax and the City": https://www.taxum.ch/blog
→ Podcast "Tax and the City": https://youtube.com/@tax_and_the_city
→ Contact Julia: https://www.taxum.ch/kontakt
→ Alliance Relocation: https://www.alliance-relocation.ch/
Song: InRp – Golden Hour
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Es7EVrnbiBU
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding your individual circumstances.
40 min
July 1512 - Wenn Profis nicht hinschauen, zahlst am Ende du mit Christine Manger
Die Folge, in der wir uns fragen: Wem kannst du eigentlich vertrauen, wenn die Profis versagen?
13 Jahre selbstständig. Buchhaltung selbst gemacht. Mehrwertsteuer brav abgeführt. Und trotzdem: Jahrelang zu viel Steuern bezahlt, weil niemand wirklich hingeschaut hat. Julia Tatje spricht mit Christine Manger, Kommunikationsdesignerin und Yoga-Lehrerin aus Zürich, über das Gefühl, bei der eigenen Steuererklärung nur eine Nummer zu sein, über einen Fehler, der mehrere tausend Franken kostete, und darüber, warum der Wechsel zu einem neuen Steuerberater einfacher war als gedacht.
In dieser Folge
Was passiert, wenn eine Grosskanzlei deine Unterlagen nicht wirklich liest
Der Mehrwertsteuer-Fehler, der drei Jahre lang unbemerkt blieb
Warum sich viele Selbstständige zu klein fühlen, um zu wechseln
Was Grafikdesign und Steuern gemeinsam haben: du brauchst jemanden, dem du vertraust
AHV, zweite Säule, dritte Säule: was Selbstständige wirklich wissen müssen
Thermopapierquittungen, Ordnerstruktur und andere unterschätzte Klassiker
Das Fazit
Selbstständige in der Schweiz: Du musst kein Steuerprofi sein, aber du musst jemanden haben, der es ist, und der sich deine Unterlagen auch wirklich ansieht. Nicht jedes Jahr. Jedes Mal.
Wer schon länger bei derselben Kanzlei ist: Das Gefühl, eine Nummer zu sein, ist kein Zufall. Und der Wechsel ist meistens einfacher als die Angst davor.
Für alle, die es selbst versuchen: Struktur hilft. Quittungen auf Thermopapier sofort einscannen. Und zehn Jahre alles aufbewahren. Den Rest übernimmt jemand, dem es nicht egal ist.
Host und Gast
Julia Tatje -- Steuerexpertin für Privatpersonen mit komplexen Lebensrealitäten. Gründerin von Taxum AG, Personal Tax Boutique in Zürich.
Christine Manger -- Senior Art Directorin und Kommunikationsdesignerin mit nationaler und internationaler Erfahrung für Werbekampagnen und Branding.
Sie entwickelt kommunikationsstarke und ganzheitliche Designlösungen mit klarer Leitidee, um emotionale Bindung für Kunden und Neukunden zu schaffen.
Seit 13 Jahren ist sie selbstständig in Zürich und Deutschland. Zudem ist sie ausgebildete Yogalehrerin. Ausserdem hat sie das Branding und den Gesamtauftritt von Taxum gestaltet.
Website: christinemanger.com für Unternehmen: business.christinemanger.com
Hören und Kontakt
→ Website: https://www.taxum.ch/
→ LinkedIn: Julia Tatje - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-tatje/
→ Blog "Tax and the City": https://www.taxum.ch/blog
→ Podcast "Tax and the City": https://youtube.com/@tax_and_the_city?si=YE6SgrVTCu4pBUsc
→ Kontaktiere Julia: https://www.taxum.ch/kontakt
Song: InRp - Golden Hour
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: InRp - Golden Hour (Vlog No Copyright Music)
Dieser Podcast dient ausschliesslich der Information und stellt keine Rechts- oder Steuerberatung dar. Bitte konsultiere eine qualifizierte Fachperson für deine individuelle Situation.
27 min
July 0111 - Financial Planning That Actually Makes Sense with Nadine Hunkeler
The One Where Financial Planning Stops Being About Products
Most people think financial planning starts with investing.
An ETF. A pension buy-in. A Pillar 3a account. Maybe even a conversation about retirement.
But what if that's actually the roof of the house?
In this episode, Julia Tatje sits down with Nadine Hunkeler, founder and CEO of Finance Phoenix, certified financial planner, educator, and passionate advocate for financial literacy in Switzerland.
Together, they explore why financial planning is often misunderstood, why so many people postpone it, and why true financial security starts long before investment decisions enter the picture.
Nadine shares her own journey of learning financial planning the hard way, despite growing up in a family deeply rooted in banking and finance. Through personal experience, professional expertise, and years of advising clients, she developed a holistic approach that combines education, risk management, financial planning, and practical implementation.
The conversation moves far beyond investments and tax deductions.
It explores the foundations that protect people when life doesn't go according to plan.
In This Episode
Why financial planning is about personal risk management, not just investments
The biggest mistake people make: delaying financial planning altogether
Why even financially successful professionals often don't understand their own financial situation
The three major financial risks everyone should consider: disability, death, and retirement
Why disability is often the most overlooked financial risk in Switzerland
How pension funds, insurance, taxes, and investments interact as one system
The importance of emergency funds, legal documents, and financial awareness
Common misconceptions about Pillar 3a accounts and pension planning
Why financial decisions should always be tailored to individual circumstances
The difference between working for money and letting money work for you
Why international professionals often face unique financial planning challenges in Switzerland
How financial planning creates confidence, clarity, and long-term peace of mind
The Bottom Line
If you're waiting until retirement to think about financial planning: You're starting far too late. Good financial planning begins with protecting yourself today.
If you think investing is the first step: It isn't. Foundations come first: liquidity, protection, pension planning, legal safeguards, and awareness.
If you're relying on someone else to handle your finances: Understanding your own situation remains your responsibility.
If you keep postponing financial decisions: Time is often the most valuable asset in financial planning. Delays can become expensive.
For everyone: Financial planning isn't about predicting the future. It's about building enough clarity and protection to navigate whatever the future brings.
Host and Guest
Julia Tatje – Swiss tax specialist for internationals and founder of taxum AG.
Nadine Hunkeler – Founder and CEO of Finance Phoenix, Certified Financial Planner, financial educator and consultant specialising in financial planning and personal risk management in Switzerland. Through a combination of education, expert advice, and personalised financial planning, Nadine helps individuals, couples and families build long-term financial security and make confident financial decisions.
Finance Phoenix focuses particularly on helping people understand the interaction between financial risks, pension planning, taxes, liquidity, and investments so they can create a sustainable financial strategy aligned with their life goals.
Website: https://www.financephoenix.ch/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadine-hunkeler/
Listen and Connect
→ Website: https://www.taxum.ch/
→ LinkedIn: Julia Tatje – https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-tatje/
→ Blog "Tax and the City": https://www.taxum.ch/blog
→ Podcast "Tax and the City": https://youtube.com/@tax_and_the_city
→ Contact Julia: https://www.taxum.ch/kontakt
→ Finance Phoenix: https://www.financephoenix.ch/
→ Finance Phoenix: https://www.financephoenix.ch/workshop
→ LinkedIn: Nadine Hunkeler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadine-hunkeler/
Song: InRp – Golden Hour
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Es7EVrnbiBU
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding your individual circumstances.
53 min
June 1710 - Pressure, Paperwork & Peace of Mind - Why Taxes Feel Heavier Than They Are with Catherine Peloquin
The One Where the Tax Return Becomes a Stress Response
It starts innocently enough. A form. A deadline. A reminder email sitting unopened in your inbox.
And somehow, something administrative begins to feel deeply personal.
In this episode, Julia Tatje sits down with Catherine Peloquin, executive coach supporting leaders who communicate and perform under pressure, to explore why taxes trigger such intense stress responses, especially for highly capable, internationally mobile professionals who otherwise seem to handle everything.
Catherine has spent years working with executives navigating leadership pressure, burnout risk, communication challenges, and nervous system regulation. And somewhere between discussing leadership, performance, and human behaviour, Julia and Catherine realised something surprising: taxes often trigger the exact same pressure patterns people experience in high-stakes professional situations.
Because the issue is rarely just the paperwork.
It is the pressure, avoidance, uncertainty, and mental load we quietly carry around it.
In This Episode
Why highly successful people often freeze when it comes to taxes and administration
The connection between stress, nervous system regulation, and avoidance
Why people mistake stress for weakness instead of recognising it as overload
How internationally mobile professionals experience additional pressure around foreign systems and compliance
Why postponing stressful tasks increases pressure exponentially
The hidden mental load behind tax deadlines and unfinished admin
The importance of trust, human connection, and feeling supported when dealing with finances
Why doing everything alone often becomes part of the problem
Burnout prevention, boundaries, and how leaders build resilience under pressure
Small practical ways to reduce stress before your body forces you to slow down
The Bottom Line
If you feel irrationally stressed about taxes: You are probably not stressed about the numbers themselves. You are reacting to uncertainty, pressure, and fear of getting something wrong.
If you keep postponing administrative tasks: The task rarely gets heavier. The mental load does.
If you think stress is weakness: High-functioning people often carry enormous pressure silently — until the body eventually intervenes.
If you are living internationally: Foreign systems, language barriers, and complex compliance create additional layers of cognitive and emotional stress.
For everyone: Asking for support earlier is often the most responsible thing you can do — not the weakest.
Host and Guest
Julia Tatje - Swiss tax specialist for internationals. Founder, taxum AG.
Catherine Peloquin - Executive coach supporting leaders who communicate and perform under pressure. Catherine works with executives and professionals navigating stress, leadership pressure, communication challenges, and nervous system regulation in high-performance environments.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinepeloquin/
Website: https://catherinepeloquin.com/
Listen and Connect
→ Website: https://www.taxum.ch/
→ LinkedIn: Julia Tatje - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-tatje/
→ Blog "Tax and the City": https://www.taxum.ch/blog
→ Podcast "Tax and the City": https://youtube.com/@tax_and_the_city?si=YE6SgrVTCu4pBUsc
→ Contact Julia: https://www.taxum.ch/kontakt
→ Contact Catherine: 30 Minutes Initial Meeting (https://calendly.com/cat-quin-ch/30min?month=2026-05))
Song: InRp - Golden Hour
Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.
Video Link: InRp - Golden Hour (Vlog No Copyright Music)
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always consult a qualified tax professional regarding your individual situation.
33 min

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