Simulate Third Pillar | Frontaliere Ticino
Simulate Third Pillar — free tools and expert guides for cross-border workers (frontalieri) between Switzerland and Italy. Compare salaries, tax, LAMal health insurance, pensions, and cost of living in Ticino. Updated 2026.
The third pillar 3a simulator calculates accumulated capital and future pension based on annual contributions, duration, expected return, and withdrawal tax, showing the fiscal advantage over non-tax-advantaged investments.
In 2026, the maximum deductible for pillar 3a is CHF 7,258 for workers affiliated with an LPP pension fund. The contribution directly reduces taxable income for cantonal withholding tax purposes.
The simulator also compares scenarios with different time horizons and returns, letting you visualise the effect of compound interest and tax relief over the long term.
This page is part of Frontaliere Ticino, the reference platform for cross-border workers between Switzerland (Canton Ticino) and Italy. Find practical tools, updated data, and verified information.
Content is designed to help cross-border workers make informed decisions about taxation, pensions, transportation, cost of living, and administrative procedures.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the maximum pillar 3a contribution in 2026?
- For employees affiliated to a LPP pension fund, the limit is CHF 7,258 per year (2026). For those without a 2nd pillar, the limit rises to 20% of net income, up to a maximum of CHF 36,288.
- Can a cross-border worker with a G permit open a pillar 3a account?
- Yes, cross-border workers with a G permit who work in Switzerland and pay withholding tax can open a 3a account and deduct contributions from their withholding tax through the TDR rectification.
- What is the difference between pillar 3a and 3b?
- Pillar 3a is tied (withdrawal only 5 years before retirement, home purchase, or leaving Switzerland) but tax-deductible. Pillar 3b is free (no withdrawal restrictions) but offers no direct tax benefits. Pillar 3a is better for immediate tax savings.
- How much tax can you save with pillar 3a?
- In Canton Ticino, a full contribution of CHF 7,258 reduces withholding tax by approximately CHF 1,000–2,200 depending on the marginal rate. For a cross-border worker with a 12–15% rate, the saving is approximately CHF 870–1,090.
- How is pillar 3a withdrawal taxed?
- At withdrawal, a reduced separate tax is levied, generally between 5% and 10% of the capital in Canton Ticino. For cross-border workers who have left Switzerland, a withholding tax on capital applies with the possibility of refund under the double taxation agreement.