Tax return 2026: These deadlines count in the canton of Zurich

For many Zurich residents, two deadlines overlap for the 2026 tax return: the last possible date for the 2025 tax return and the start of the new tax period. KKT Zurich GmbH explains both dates, what happens in the event of a delay and how you can still act in time by extending the deadline.

The most important deadlines at a glance

In the canton of Zurich, the following dates apply for the 2026 tax return and the current 2025 tax return:

• Tax return 2025, private individuals: regular deadline March 31, 2026, with an extension until November 30, 2026 at the latest
• Tax return 2025, companies: regular deadline September 30, 2026, with an extension until November 30, 2026 at the latest
• Tax return 2026, private individuals: regular deadline March 31, 2027
• Tax return 2026, companies: regular deadline September 30, 2027

These dates apply to the canton of Zurich. Other cantons sometimes set different deadlines, which is why it is worth taking a look at the respective cantonal law if you change your place of residence or domicile.

Tax return 2025: Use the deadline until November 30, 2026

The regular deadline for the 2025 tax return was March 31, 2026. Anyone who requested an extension of the deadline back then now has until November 30, 2026 at the latest to submit. After that, further extension is only possible in exceptional cases and must be justified in writing. Overload of work or missing documents are expressly not considered an extraordinary reason.

Anyone who has not yet submitted their 2025 tax return should therefore actively use the remaining weeks. KKT Zurich GmbH supports you in compiling the documents and submitting them on time.

Tax return 2026: Prepare now

The 2026 tax period is already running at the same time. The regular deadline for the 2026 tax return is March 31, 2027 for private individuals and September 30, 2027 for companies. That sounds like a lot of time, but it's worth preparing now.

If you continually collect receipts, such as wage statements, securities registers, donation confirmations or proof of third-party childcare, you will save yourself unnecessary stress next spring. You can find out more about this on our page Tax advice in Zurich.

Apply for an extension of the deadline: This is how it works in the canton of Zurich

An extension of the deadline must be submitted to the responsible person before the original deadline expires Municipal tax office be applied for. In the canton of Zurich, this can be done online, for example via the digital portal ZHprivateTax, or in writing directly to the municipality. The first extension is free in most municipalities; later or particularly long extensions may incur a fee depending on the municipality.

What happens if you miss the deadline?

If someone does not submit the tax return despite a reminder, the tax authorities will assess the amount at their best discretion. In addition, there is a risk of fines in accordance with Article 174 of the Federal Law on Direct Federal Tax: usually up to 1,000 francs, in the event of repetition or particularly seriousness up to 10,000 francs. An early extension of the deadline is therefore almost always the cheaper solution.

For companies: deadlines for legal entities in detail

For legal entities Separate dates apply in the canton of Zurich. The tax return must be submitted regularly by September 30th of the following year. Up to this date you can apply online for an extension until November 30th. An extension beyond November 30th will only be approved in justified exceptional cases. KKT Zurich GmbH supports companies in the ongoing process accounting and ensures that the tax return is prepared on time.

Frequently asked questions about the 2026 tax return

When do I have to submit the 2025 tax return at the latest?

With an approved extension of the deadline until November 30, 2026 at the latest. Without an extension, the regular deadline ended on March 31, 2026.

How do I request an extension of the deadline in the canton of Zurich?

Online via ZHprivateTax or in writing to your local tax office, in each case before the current deadline expires.

What happens if I don't file my tax return at all?

A reminder is followed by an assessment based on due discretion and possibly a fine in accordance with Article 174 DBG.

When does the 2026 tax return have to be submitted?

Regularly until March 31, 2027 for private individuals and until September 30, 2027 for companies in the canton of Zurich.

Complete your 2026 tax return with KKT Zurich

KKT Zurich GmbH takes care of the 2026 tax return for private individuals and companies in the canton of Zurich, including deadline control and representation before the tax authorities. Contact us at +41 44 566 79 79 or info@kkt-zuerich.ch, or Arrange an initial consultation directly.