Vote: imputed rental value to be abolished
A surprisingly clear majority voted in favor of abolishing the internationally unique tax on homeowners.
The imputed rental value tax is history. With the yes vote in Sunday's referendum, the tax for homeowners, which was calculated on the basis of a fictitious income, has been abolished. The homeowners' association HEV is "delighted" about the abolition of the internationally unique "ghost tax" and calls it a "historic day for everyone who lives in their own home". The abolition will relieve the burden on older people in particular, who have worked for their own home for decades. "At the same time, disincentives to take on debt will be reduced," says the HEV.
The cantons can now decide for themselves whether to introduce a property tax on owner-occupied second homes in order to compensate for any losses resulting from the abolition of the imputed rental value tax. They can also continue or even expand special tax deductions for energy-saving and environmental protection measures.
Just under 58 % of the votes cast were in favor of abolishing the imputed rental value. The clear yes vote is surprising for many, as the home ownership rate in Switzerland is less than 50%. (aw)
