Accountant or tax advisor - what is the difference?
Many entrepreneurs in Switzerland ask themselves the same question sooner or later:
Do I need an accountant or a tax advisor?
Both work with figures, accounting and taxes - but their tasks, competencies and responsibilities differ significantly. Knowing the differences not only saves time and money, but also makes better business decisions.
What does a balance sheet accountant do?
A balance sheet accountant is responsible for the ongoing bookkeeping and financial organization of a company. His main tasks include:
- Financial accounting
Preparation of annual financial statements and balance sheets - Cost and performance accounting
- Monthly or quarterly financial reports
- Preparation of figures for tax purposes
The accountant ensures that all transactions are recorded correctly, completely and comprehensibly. It thus forms the operational basis for entrepreneurial decisions and for cooperation with a tax advisor.
Perfect for:
- SMEs and start-ups in Switzerland
- Self-employed people without their own finance department
Companies that need digital and ongoing accounting support
What does a tax advisor do?
A tax advisor goes beyond pure bookkeeping. He provides strategic tax advice and deals with complex tax and legal issues, such as:
- Tax returns and declarations
- Tax optimization and tax planning
- Advice on company start-ups or restructurings
- Assistance with tax audits
International tax issues
The tax advisor helps you make optimal use of legal leeway and minimize tax risks, especially in the event of growth, expansion or special business transactions.
Perfect for:
- Companies with complex tax issues
- Companies with expansion or investment plans
- Entrepreneurs who want to plan for long-term tax purposes
When do you need an accountant?
A balance sheet accountant is the right choice if:
- You want to outsource your ongoing bookkeeping
- You need regular evaluations and annual financial statements
- You run an SME or start-up with clear structures
- You want to have a transparent overview of your figures at any time
In short: The accountant is your operational financial partner who brings order, structure and clarity to your accounting.
When do you need a tax advisor?
A tax advisor becomes particularly important when:
- You want to optimize your taxes
There are legal or tax risks - You are planning to set up, restructure or expand your company
- International transactions or investments come into play
The tax advisor is your strategic partner when it comes to planning, design and legal security.
Accountant vs. tax advisor - the conclusion
The decision depends on your needs:
- Accountant: ensures clean, transparent and structured finances
- Tax advisor: optimizes your tax situation and provides you with legal protection
Tip:
In practice, the combination of balance sheet accounting and tax advice is often the best solution - particularly for SMEs and start-ups.
At MKY Group, both areas are combined in a meaningful way:
Digital accounting, meaningful reporting and professional tax advice work together, so you can concentrate on your core business and keep track of things at all times.
Not sure which solution is right for your company? A personal conversation often provides quick clarification. Book a first consultation with us.
