Accountant in Lausanne & Vaud Fiduciary for SMEs, freelancers and companies
Accounting support in Lausanne and Vaud includes monthly bookkeeping, VAT returns, annual closing under Swiss CO rules and clear financial reporting — with a defined scope from CHF 290/month.
This page helps English-speaking business owners understand how accounting works in Vaud, choose the right level of support and access the appropriate service: bookkeeping, VAT, annual closing, reporting or full outsourcing.
From administrative constraint to management tool
In the canton of Vaud, accounting is often seen as an obligation: VAT filings, document management, annual closing. When structured correctly, it becomes a real management tool: you understand margins, cash flow, costs and deadlines.
Understand your real need
Depending on your situation, your needs are different: a freelancer needs simplicity, a company must secure VAT and closing, while an SME requires reporting, payroll and financial visibility.
A gateway to the right services
This hub directs you to the most relevant service without mixing everything: bookkeeping, SME accounting, annual closing, financial reporting or outsourcing.
How accounting works in the canton of Vaud
Accounting in Switzerland follows rules defined by the Code of Obligations. Every business must keep accounts adapted to its size, store documents and prepare reliable financial statements.
Regular bookkeeping
Transactions are processed monthly or quarterly depending on volume to avoid costly backlog corrections.
VAT
If revenue exceeds CHF 100,000, VAT registration and reporting must be analysed and managed.
Annual closing
Balance sheet, income statement, depreciation and adjustments are prepared at year-end.
Payroll
If the company has employees, social contributions and salary certificates must be handled properly.
Who this page is for
This page is designed for businesses in Lausanne and Vaud that want to structure their accounting or assess whether their current setup is sufficient.
Freelancers
Need for simplicity, clarity and accounting adapted to a limited activity volume.
Companies
VAT, costs, director compensation, annual closing and legal obligations.
SMEs
Higher volume, reporting needs, payroll management and financial planning.
What is typically included in accounting services
The exact scope depends on the mandate. This section gives a clear overview of typical needs without replacing dedicated service pages.
Core accounting services
- Processing and organising accounting documents.
- Bank reconciliation and account checks.
- VAT tracking and preparation of returns.
- Preparation of annual closing.
Additional services depending on your situation
- Payroll, AVS, LPP, LAA and withholding tax.
- Monthly reporting for management.
- File takeover or correction of past accounting.
- Advice on accounting organisation and tools.
What to secure before it becomes urgent
Poor accounting organisation leads to delays, corrections, unexpected costs and loss of visibility for business owners.
VAT
Standard rates: 8.1%, 2.6% and 3.8%. Registration threshold typically CHF 100,000 turnover.
Code of Obligations
Accounting must reflect the real financial situation and allow proper annual reporting.
Archiving
Accounting documents must be kept for 10 years according to Swiss regulations.
Payroll
Social contributions, salary certificates and insurance must be correctly managed when relevant.
VAT rates, thresholds, methods and payroll obligations must always be verified based on your specific situation. This page provides general guidance, not personalised tax advice.
How to choose an accountant in Vaud
Choosing a fiduciary is not just about price. A cheaper service without clear structure often leads to higher costs later.
What to check before signing
- What is included and excluded in the scope.
- Frequency of accounting processing.
- VAT and payroll handling.
- Annual closing responsibilities.
- Deadlines and responsibilities clarity.
What a good fiduciary should provide
- Understandable numbers, not just documents.
- Clear and proactive communication.
- Anticipation of deadlines and risks.
- Simple workflow for document sharing.
- Transparent scope of services.
Choose the right accounting service
Depending on your profile, access the most relevant service directly. This structure improves SEO and helps users find what they need faster.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the most common accounting questions before requesting a quote.
How do I know which service I need?
It depends on your legal structure, transaction volume, VAT, payroll and reporting needs.
When do I need to register for VAT?
The usual threshold is CHF 100,000 turnover, but each situation must be analysed.
How much does accounting cost in Vaud?
Prices depend on volume and complexity. Simple cases can start from CHF 290/month.
What is the difference between bookkeeping and fiduciary support?
Bookkeeping records transactions. Fiduciary support helps you understand, plan and secure your obligations.
Request a clear proposal for your accounting
Receive a clear response within 24 working hours. Describe your situation: company type, volume, VAT, payroll, current software and needs.
- Analysis of real complexity.
- VAT, payroll and closing clarification.
- Orientation to the right service.
- No-obligation first exchange.
Free diagnostic
Describe your accounting needs briefly