How do pensions and lump sums differ from a tax perspective?
Pension benefits from the pension fund are - just like the AHV pension - taxed at the standard income tax rate. Capital withdrawals, on the other hand, benefit from a reduced tax rate (provided no purchase into the pension fund was made in the previous three years). The tax advantage can be optimized even further by staggering the payments over several years. In the case of residence abroad, the provisions on withholding tax apply.
From a tax perspective, the capital withdrawal is usually the more attractive option, but other factors should be taken into account when making this decision. In addition to the individual circumstances, health status, family situation and the need for security play an important role. We therefore advise insured persons to discuss these questions with an expert as part of individual pension planning.