8 Best Fiduciaries for Freelancers in Suisse Romande
Finding the right fiduciary as a freelancer in Switzerland can mean the difference between tax headaches and financial peace of mind. With VAT thresholds, cantonal differences, and evolving digital options, choosing wisely matters more than ever.
Do You Actually Need a Fiduciary?
Before diving into recommendations, let's be clear — not every freelancer needs a fiduciary. Here's how to know if you need one.
You DON'T need one if
Turnover under CHF 100k, simple income, comfortable with bookkeeping, using software like Magic HeidiYou DO need one if
Turnover over CHF 100k, managing inventory or investments, creating Sàrl/SA, need tax optimizationThe Sweet Spot
Combine accounting software for daily operations with a fiduciary for annual closings and complex questionsWhat Swiss Freelancers Must Know in 2025
Understanding VAT thresholds and accounting obligations before choosing your fiduciary.
VAT at CHF 100,000+
Any business generating over CHF 100,000 annual turnover must register for VAT.
8.1% Standard Rate
Current VAT rate since January 2024. 3.8% for accommodation, 2.6% for essentials.
Simplified Under CHF 500k
Simplified bookkeeping allowed under CHF 500,000. Double-entry required above.
10-Year Retention
All documents must be kept for 10 years per Article 958f CO.
Top Fiduciaries at a Glance
Compare pricing, ratings, and specializations to find your ideal match.
| Fiduciary | Starting Price | Google Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiduciaire Acctive | CHF 99/month | 5.0 ★ | Budget-conscious freelancers |
| Karpeo | CHF 99/month | 4.7 ★ (52 reviews) | Digital-first entrepreneurs |
| FBK Conseils | ~CHF 170/month | 5.0 ★ (60+ reviews) | Personal service seekers |
| Calliopée | CHF 75/month | High | Startups and SMEs |
| Entreprendre.ch | CHF 490 (creation) | High | New business formation |
| Finwise | Contact for quote | High | Full admin support |
| Kaurum | Contact for quote | High | Geneva-based businesses |
| Safe Fiduciaire | CHF 600+ | 4.0 ★ (20 reviews) | Premium service needs |
The 8 Best Fiduciaries for Independents
Detailed reviews of each fiduciary to help you make the right choice.
1. Karpeo — Best Digital-First Option
Locations: Geneva & Lausanne
Price: From CHF 99/month (artisans), CHF 119/month (PME)
Rating: 4.7 stars (52+ reviews)
Karpeo has positioned itself as the leader in digital fiduciary services for French-speaking Switzerland. Their 100% online approach means faster turnaround and prices reportedly 15-25% below traditional market rates.
Strengths:
- Modern, fully digital workflow
- Transparent pricing with monthly subscriptions
- Strong startup and freelancer focus
- Responsive team praised in reviews
Best for: Tech-savvy entrepreneurs who prefer digital communication and want competitive pricing without sacrificing quality.
2. FBK Conseils — Best for Personal Touch
Location: Lausanne
Price: ~CHF 170-200/month
Rating: 5.0 stars (60+ reviews)
FBK Conseils combines digital convenience with genuine warmth. Their team consistently receives praise for being approachable and thorough. Their blog offers refreshingly practical accounting tips without the usual corporate jargon.
Strengths:
- Perfect Google rating
- Warm, client-focused approach
- Digital solutions for delegation
- Educational content that adds value
Best for: Freelancers who value relationship-based service and want to actually understand their finances.
3. Fiduciaire Acctive — Best Value
Locations: Geneva & Lausanne
Price: From CHF 99/month (up to 100 documents/year)
Rating: 5.0 stars
Founded in 2020, Acctive has quickly made a name for itself by making quality accounting accessible. Their subscription model is transparent and budget-friendly.
Strengths:
- Lowest entry price point
- Clear document-based pricing
- Perfect rating (though fewer reviews)
- Modern approach despite being young
Considerations: Smaller track record than established players.
Best for: Cost-conscious freelancers with straightforward accounting needs.
4. Calliopée — Best for Growing Businesses
Location: Geneva
Price: From CHF 75/month
Services: Accounting, taxation, payroll, advisory
Calliopée positions itself as a true partner for independents, SMEs, and startups. Their comprehensive service range means you won't outgrow them as your business scales.
Strengths:
- Most affordable monthly option
- Full-service offering
- Strong startup expertise
- Scalable solutions
Best for: Freelancers planning to grow or eventually hire employees.
More Quality Choices for Swiss Freelancers
From company creation specialists to full-service solutions, these fiduciaries serve specific needs.
5. Entreprendre.ch — Best for Company Creation
Location: Suisse romande
Price: Company creation from CHF 490 HT
Services: Full administrative support, domiciliation (~CHF 100/month)
If you're transitioning from freelancer to formal company structure, Entreprendre.ch specializes in this journey. They handle everything from incorporation to ongoing compliance.
Strengths:
- Expertise in Sàrl/SA formation
- Complete administrative management
- Domiciliation services available
- One-stop solution
Best for: Freelancers ready to incorporate or needing domiciliation.
6. Finwise — Best Full-Service Solution
Location: Suisse romande
Price: Contact for custom quote
Finwise takes a comprehensive approach, managing everything from company establishment to daily finances. Their team guides clients through every administrative stage.
Strengths:
- Holistic business support
- Proactive guidance
- Custom solutions
- Strong client accompaniment
Best for: Independents who want to fully delegate administrative work.
7. Kaurum — Best Location in Geneva
Location: 160m from Geneva train station
Services: Company creation, accounting, payroll, audit, tax, external CFO
Kaurum's central Geneva location makes in-person meetings convenient. They offer external CFO services, valuable for freelancers needing strategic financial guidance.
Strengths:
- Central accessibility
- CFO services available
- Comprehensive offering
- Strong local expertise
Best for: Geneva-based freelancers who prefer face-to-face relationships.
8. Safe Fiduciaire — Best Premium Service
Location: Lancy, Geneva
Price: From CHF 600 (independents), up to CHF 2,500 (Sàrl/SA creation)
Rating: 4.0 stars (20 reviews)
Safe targets clients seeking premium, hands-off service. Higher prices reflect more comprehensive support and experienced professionals.
Strengths:
- High-touch service
- Experienced team
- Suitable for complex situations
- Premium quality
Considerations: Significantly higher price point.
Best for: High-earning freelancers or those with complex financial situations.
How to Choose the
Right Fiduciary
Key criteria and questions to ask before making your decision.
Specialization
Does the fiduciary regularly work with independents? A firm focused on large corporations may not understand freelancer-specific challenges.
- Check their client portfolio
- Ask about freelancer experience
- Look for industry expertise
- Verify cantonal knowledge
Digital Capabilities
Can you submit documents electronically? Access reports online? Modern tools save time for everyone.
- Electronic document submission
- Online report access
- Mobile-friendly platforms
- Integration with your software
Pricing Transparency
Hourly rates (CHF 150-250/hour) can spiral unexpectedly. Monthly subscriptions offer predictability.
- Clear fee structure
- Know what's included
- Understand extra charges
- Compare total annual cost
Qualifications
Look for "eidg. Fachausweis" certification or EXPERTsuisse membership as quality indicators.
- Professional certifications
- Industry memberships
- Years of experience
- Response time and support
Before You Sign
Ask these essential questions to any fiduciary before committing.
What's included in your monthly fee vs. charged extra?
Avoid surprise bills by understanding the full cost structure upfront.
How do you handle urgent questions?
For VAT deadlines, speed matters. Know their response time.
What accounting software do you work with?
Ensure compatibility with tools you already use or plan to use.
Can you help if I exceed CHF 100,000?
Know if they can handle VAT registration when you grow.
What's your experience with my industry/canton?
Local and sector expertise can save you money.
The Hybrid Strategy: Software + Expert
The most efficient approach combines daily automation with strategic expert input. Handle routine tasks yourself with accounting software, and leverage fiduciary expertise for complex decisions and annual closings.
When to Use Software
vs. Fiduciary
Smart freelancers divide responsibilities strategically between automated tools and expert advisors.
Invoices, expenses, bank imports, VAT calculations
Annual closing, tax declarations, complex questions
Lower costs while staying in control
Scale support based on actual needs
Frequently Asked Questions
When must I register for VAT in Switzerland?
Registration is mandatory once your annual turnover exceeds CHF 100,000 (including international revenue). Below this threshold, registration is optional but can be advantageous in some cases.
How much does a fiduciary cost per month?
Prices range from CHF 75-200/month for subscription models. Hourly rates typically run CHF 150-250 depending on qualifications. Annual closings specifically average CHF 180/hour.
Can I do my own accounting as a freelancer?
Yes, especially if you're under CHF 500,000 turnover. You can use simplified bookkeeping with proper software. Many freelancers handle daily accounting themselves and use a fiduciary only for annual closing.
How long must I keep accounting documents?
Swiss law (Article 958f CO) requires keeping all accounting documents for 10 years.
Digital vs. traditional fiduciary — which is better?
Digital fiduciaries typically offer 15-25% lower prices and faster processing. Traditional firms provide more personal relationships and may be better for complex situations requiring nuanced advice.
Make Your Decision
The best fiduciary for you depends on your specific situation.
Tight Budget?
Start with Calliopée (CHF 75/month) or Fiduciaire Acctive (CHF 99/month)
Want Digital Efficiency?
Karpeo leads the pack with 100% online workflow
Value Personal Touch?
FBK Conseils delivers consistently with 5.0 rating
Creating a Company?
Entreprendre.ch specializes in Sàrl/SA formation
Complex Situation?
Safe Fiduciaire offers premium, hands-off support
Simplify Your Accounting Before Your Next Fiduciary Meeting
Whatever fiduciary you choose, pair it with solid accounting software to handle the daily work. You'll save money, stay organized, and actually understand your business finances.