Pillar 3a Saving Accounts: Compare Rates and Choose the Best Option

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Banks compared

KreditSOS compares Pillar 3a saving accounts from over 10 Swiss banks. Discover the available yields and simulate your annual net return directly on the provider’s website by entering the amount you wish to deposit.

What is Pillar 3a?

Pillar 3a is a private savings plan in Switzerland designed to supplement the state (AHV/AVS) and occupational (BVG/LPP) pension systems. It allows you to build personal retirement capital while enjoying tax benefits. It can take the form of a saving account or an investment product.

Difference between Pillar 3a saving accounts and investment funds

Pillar 3a saving accounts: Similar to regular saving accounts with fixed interest rates. They are safe and stable—ideal for risk-averse savers.
Pillar 3a investment funds: Invested in markets (stocks, bonds, etc.), offering higher return potential but also greater risk.

Best interest rates for Pillar 3a saving accounts

Here are some of the most attractive rates currently offered in Switzerland:

CLER ZAK: 1.3% per year, no account opening fees
Cornèr Bank Cornèr3: 1.1% per year, no account opening fees
CA Next Bank 3A: 1.0% per year, no account opening fees
CLER 3 Account: 0.65% per year, no account opening fees
Swissquote 3a Easy: 0.6% per year, no account opening fees

Check the exact rates and updated conditions directly on each provider’s website before opening or transferring an account.

How often do banks change Pillar 3a rates?

Interest rates on Pillar 3a saving accounts depend on decisions by the Swiss National Bank and individual bank policies. They typically change once or twice a year.

KreditSOS updates data monthly using official sources.

Find the Pillar 3a account offers that best suit your needs now and start making your savings pay off.

Why open a Pillar 3a saving account?

Opening a Pillar 3a account is convenient for several reasons. Here are the main reasons:

Tax savings: Contributions are deductible from taxable income
Retirement planning: Complements Pillars 1 and 2
Better returns: Higher than traditional savings accounts
Flexible use: Can be used for property purchase, self-employment, etc.

How much can I contribute to a Pillar 3a account?

In 2025, the contribution limits are:

CHF 7,258 for employees with a pension fund (Pillar 2)
Up to 20% of net income, max. CHF 35,280 for self-employed individuals without Pillar 2

These limits apply across all types of Pillar 3a products: saving accounts, insurance-based plans, and investment funds.

KreditSOS tip: Maximize your financial security by diversifying your investments with different 3a financial products and interacting with different banks to minimize any risk of loss.

How does Pillar 3a help me save on taxes?

All contributions reduce your taxable income, and the capital is exempt from wealth tax. Upon withdrawal, Pillar 3a funds are taxed separately at a reduced rate, making it a very efficient way to save.

Proceed to the 3a account comparison section of KreditSOS now and get a tax break!

Advantages of using KreditSOS

Save time: All Pillar 3a offers in one place
Transparent data: See interest rates, fees, and conditions at a glance
Smart filters: Easily sort by what matters to you

Are there fees with a Pillar 3a saving account?

Most accounts have no annual fees. However, transfer or early withdrawal fees may apply. Pillar 3a investment funds usually have annual management fees.

KreditSOS tip: Before choosing a 3a account, it is also worth considering the closing costs. If they are very high, you should forego the offer in case you plan not to tie yourself to the bank until retirement.

Frequently asked questions about Pillar 3a

Can I open multiple Pillar 3a accounts?
Yes, it’s recommended to split capital across several accounts for tax optimization during withdrawal.

Is it worth switching banks for my Pillar 3a?
Yes, if another provider offers better interest or lower fees, a transfer can be beneficial.

What are the downsides of a Pillar 3a account?
Funds are locked until retirement, except in specific cases, and withdrawals are taxed.

Can I open a Pillar 3a account in a foreign currency?
No, these accounts are in Swiss francs, as they are tied to the Swiss pension system.

What happens if my bank goes bankrupt?
Pillar 3a assets are protected up to CHF 100,000 under Swiss deposit guarantee laws.

When can I withdraw my Pillar 3a before retirement?

To buy your primary residence
To start your own business
When permanently leaving Switzerland
In case of disability or death

Helpful guides on Bank Accounts

Understanding the Swiss pension system: Pillars 1, 2 and 3a
Compound interest and long-term savings
Pillar 3a saving account comparison
Best regular saving accounts in Switzerland