What is Milchbüchleirechnung?
Milchbüchleirechnung is the colloquial Swiss term for simplified bookkeeping. In legal terms, it corresponds to the bookkeeping of receipts and expenditures under Art. 957 para. 2 CO.
Key Features
- Simplified cash-oriented recording approach
- Focuses on income, expenses, and year-end asset position
- Typically lower complexity than full double-entry accounting
- Still requires complete supporting vouchers and records
When It Is Permitted
Simple bookkeeping is generally allowed where legal conditions are met and annual turnover is below CHF 500,000, typically including:
- Sole proprietorships (Einzelunternehmen)
- Partnerships (Kollektivgesellschaft / Kommanditgesellschaft)
- Certain associations and foundations under applicable criteria
Tax and Compliance Implications
Even with simplified bookkeeping, records and vouchers must typically be retained for 10 years. If turnover exceeds the legal threshold, accounting obligations must be upgraded for the following fiscal year.