FINANCING CHECKLIST (Swiss 2026 Edition)

Phase 1: The Credentials

☐ ZEK “Code 00” Status: Ensure your record at the Zentralstelle für Kreditinformation is not just clean, but “Code 00” (the gold standard). In 2026, lenders are using AI-driven scoring; even “neutral” entries can slightly increase your quoted APR. ☐ The “Permit-Term Sync”: * C Permit: Immediate access.

• B Permit: NEW 2026 TACTIC: Your loan or lease term cannot legally exceed the expiry date of your residence permit unless you can show a renewal application. Ensure your financing timeline mirrors your permit validity.
• G Permit: Most lenders now require a Swiss bank account with at least 12 months of salary history.

☐ The 36-Month Over-Indebtedness Test: Under the Consumer Credit Act (KKG), lenders must verify you can repay the loan within 36 months based on your “disposable income,” even if you choose a 60-month term. In 2026, the cost-of-living buffer used in these calculations has been adjusted upward due to inflation—ensure your “free cash” margin is wider than before.

Phase 2: The 2026 Deal Structure

☐ The 10% APR Floor: As of January 1, 2026, the Swiss Federal Council has lowered the maximum legal interest rate for cash loans and leasing to 10% (down from 11%). If a dealer offers you 11% or 12%, the contract is legally void. ☐ Tax Arbitrage (Loan vs. Lease): * Loan: Interest is 100% tax-deductible up to CHF 50,000.

• Lease: Generally not tax-deductible for private individuals.
• In 2026, with higher tax brackets, the “Loan” often wins on a Net-Cost basis.

☐ The Subscription Pivot: Check if a “Car Subscription” (Auto-Abo) is cheaper than leasing. In 2026, subscription providers like Carvolution or Gowago often have lower “Total Cost of Ownership” because they bundle the 2026-priced insurance and service costs. ☐ Residual Value (Restwert) Insurance: Ensure your lease includes “Gap Coverage.” If the car is totaled in 2026, standard insurance only pays the current value, which may be lower than your remaining lease debt.

Phase 3: The Final Deployment

☐ 14-Day “Safety Valve”: You have a mandatory 14-day cooling-off period. In 2026, use this to run your contract through a digital comparison tool one last time. ☐ Digital Signature Protocol: Most 2026 contracts are signed via Skribble or Swisscom Sign. Verify your digital ID (SwissID) is active to avoid a 3-day postal delay. ☐ The 20% Liquidity Rule: While 0% down is possible, 20% down in 2026 is the “Sweet Spot” to stay below the 10% APR threshold and qualify for “Premier” lending tiers.

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The 2026 Financial Directive

“In 2026, Swiss banks aren’t looking for just ‘income’—they are looking for ‘stability.’ A clean ZEK and a 36-month repayment capacity are your true bargaining chips.”