Paying a bill
What bills look like
Bills come in many forms and shapes. Most bills you'll get - for utilities, rent, etc., will include a QR code or payment slip like the examples below.
New QR bill
The QR bill was brought into circulation as at 30 June 2020. It will eventually replace the current payment slips, after a transition phase that has not yet been defined.
The Swiss QR code in the payment section of the bill includes all relevant information for efficient payment. Just use your QR reader or PC camera to scan the code within your e-banking or mobile banking app.
A QR bill can also still be paid in the same ways as a payment slip. For example, cash payment at any post office.
Payment slip
This slip is the key document you need in order to pay the bill. You'll get the bill & payment slip by post, and the slip will note the amount you owe, and the bank details of the party asking for the money.
Orange payment slip with reference number:
Red payment slip with IBAN number and reason for payment:
How to pay bills
These are the common ways to pay your bills, all using the above QR bill or payment slip, and all without additional fees:
Cash payment at any post office. Step into any post office with the payment slip & cash, and wait, wait, wait for your turn… and it's all done. Please note that the post office – compared to online banking – often charges a fee to the beneficiary when doing a payment. The beneficiary will most likely bill the payer for these charges.
Multimat: Some banks such as UBS have introduced “Multimat” machines – these allow you to make payments at nearly every branch. Access to the machines is possible 24/7, and they 'speak' English. All you need is an account at this bank, the payment slip, and your bank card or Maestro card.
E-banking: Most banks offer e-banking, and it’s the most convenient way to make all your payments - from the comfort of your own home or office.
Standing order: This is a great way to deal with fixed expenses such as your rent. You can get it going either via e-banking, a Multimat of your bank or via your bank teller.
If You Don't Pay Your Bills on Time
The Swiss system for enforcing payments is very effective, and we strongly recommend you pay everything on time. If you have issues with a bill you received, send a hardcopy letter to the supplier, by registered mail.
Here's what will usually happen if you fall late on payments:
As a rule or unless otherwise stated, bills are payable within 30 days.
If you don't pay it, you'll usually get two written reminders from the supplier. In most cases, these will incur additional 'administration fees'. If an invoice, after certain demands of payment, is not settled, an enforcement could be the consequence. This enforcement can severely complicate a home search.
If you then still fail to pay, the supplier will either involve the 'collection authorities' who will summon you to their office, or they will hire a debt collection agency who have no inhibitions about coming to knock on your door to collect the money. In either case, by this stage you'll be asked to pay all kinds of additional 'collection fees'. Best avoid getting there...