E-accounting, the online accounting

Updated on 22 August 2026. We reviewed the retention obligations for digitally kept business records and the submission of the VAT return via the ESTV Portal of the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (ESTV). What has changed since first publication is the route to the VAT return: “VAT return easy” (MWST-Abrechnung easy) could still be used until 8 May 2026, and since 11 May 2026 only “VAT return pro” (MWST-Abrechnung pro) is available in the ESTV Portal. Still valid without change: the description of digital receipt capture, the benefits of time savings, fewer errors and central data storage, and the ten-year retention period under Art. 958f OR, which also applies to electronically archived documents.

What is accounting with e-accounting?

With e-accounting, all bookkeeping is done digitally and online. Receipts can be scanned or photographed with an app and processed directly. The traditional physical exchange of data is no longer needed, which simplifies and speeds up processes.

In addition to ongoing bookkeeping, accounts receivable, accounts payable, open items and the income statement can be viewed clearly at any time. VAT returns and annual financial statements can also be prepared with the software. Since 11 May 2026, only “VAT return pro” has been available in the ESTV Portal for submitting the VAT return. This creates a central overview of all bookings and receipts.

In addition, SME software is often integrated, which you can use to manage customers and handle quotes, invoices and payments. All relevant documents are structured and available centrally.

Benefits of online accounting

Time savings

Automating routine tasks such as capturing receipts, invoicing and account management makes processes more efficient. This gives companies more time for other business tasks.

Fewer errors

Manual accounting is prone to input and calculation errors. E-accounting processes data automatically and significantly reduces the risk of human error.

Efficient data storage

Accounting data is stored electronically in the cloud. This allows secure access, structured organization and long-term archiving of documents.

Role of the tax advisor in e-accounting

Even with digital accounting, the tax advisor remains an important contact person. They help you choose the right software, support the changeover and contribute professional expertise. They also help ensure that tax aspects are taken into account correctly and identify potential for optimization.