Thurgau Inheritance Tax Forms & Deadlines
Last updated: 12 Nov 2025
Thurgau Inheritance Tax — Forms & Deadlines
What executors and beneficiaries should file for the Thurgau inheritance tax (Erbschaftssteuer), when filings are due, and how to prepare documents, request extensions, and avoid interest/penalties. Swiss service delivered by Sesch TaxRep GmbH, Buchs SG.
Official pages & forms
- Canton Thurgau tax administration: Inheritance/gift tax overview, guidance, and contact details. Look for pages titled Erbschafts- und Schenkungssteuer, online forms, and FAQs.
- Key forms (typical):
- Estate inventory / valuation statement (Nachlassinventar / Bewertung)
- Inheritance tax declaration (for beneficiaries)
- Disclosure of debts & administration costs
- Relationship proof (marriage/civil partnership, lineal descent, guardianship)
- Charitable bequest documentation (if applicable)
- Communal supplements: Some communes may request additional sheets or confirmations; follow the instructions on your notice.
Tip: Always use the most recent version of each form and keep copies of everything submitted.
Timeline & deadlines
What to file (documents & checklist)
Core set
- Death certificate (copy)
- Will, certificate of heirs (Erbbescheinigung) or court appointment
- Estate inventory with values as of date of death
- Bank/portfolio statements, real estate appraisals, land-registry extracts
- List of beneficiaries with relationship proofs
Reductions & exemptions
- Invoices for debts and administration costs
- Spousal/registered partner relief evidence
- Proof of direct descendant status (where exempt)
- Charitable bequest confirmations
- Evidence for non-Thurgau assets to support apportionment
Where to file & pay
File with the Thurgau tax administration as indicated on your notice. Many submissions can be sent by post or via provided online options. Payment instructions (bank details or payment slip) are printed on the assessment. If a commune coordinates part of the process, follow the commune’s instructions for local submissions.
Keep the assessment number on all correspondence and payment references.
Extensions, corrections & missing information
- Extension to file: If more time is needed to gather valuations or documents, request an extension before the deadline stated on the notice.
- Amended figures: If appraisals change materially, send updated schedules and ask for a re-check prior to or during assessment review.
- Nonresident cases: Clarify the situs scope and apportionment early; attach evidence for non-Thurgau assets to prevent overreach.
Interest, penalties & practical tips
- Interest on arrears: Charged after the payment due date on the assessment.
- Late/incorrect filings: May lead to reminders, estimated assessments, or penalties as provided by cantonal rules.
- Liquidity: Plan cash to meet the assessment window; consider interim distributions only after tax is reserved.
- Translations: Provide certified translations if documents are not in DE/FR/IT as required.
- Cross-canton estates: Coordinate valuations and evidence for each canton to avoid duplication.
- Keep records: Retain copies of all filings, notices, appraisals, and payment confirmations.
FAQs
Is there a single “estate return” for Thurgau?
Thurgau typically assesses the inheritance tax on beneficiaries; filings include inventories and declarations supporting each recipient’s share and exemptions.
How fast are payments due?
The assessment sets the due date—often around 30 days. Interest on arrears applies after that date.
Can I get more time to file?
Usually yes, if requested before the deadline and backed by a reason (e.g., pending appraisals).
What about nonresidents?
Nonresidents are usually taxed on Thurgau-situs assets only. Provide evidence for non-Thurgau assets to support the apportionment limit.