Blog
Funeral advice and news in Switzerland
Inheriting a firearm in Switzerland: acquisition permit and legal obligations
Inheriting a firearm in Switzerland involves specific legal obligations and a 6-month deadline to regularise the situation. This guide explains the mandatory procedures according to the weapon category, the available options (keep, sell, deactivate) and the penalties for non-compliance with the legislation.
What to do with the vehicle and number plates after a death?
After a death, heirs must manage the deceased's vehicle and number plates within strict deadlines. The procedures vary depending on whether the vehicle is transferred to the spouse, another heir or sold. This guide details the procedures with the Vehicle Registration Office and coordination with insurance.
Post-death cleaning and Diogenes syndrome: prices and companies
Post-death cleaning is not a simple housekeeping task: it requires specialised skills, protective equipment and strict sanitary protocols. This guide details the types of cleaning, the protocols used, the prices charged in Switzerland and the possibilities of coverage by household insurance.
Managing digital legacy: passwords and social media of the deceased
After a death, digital legacy represents a complex challenge: social media accounts, passwords, cryptocurrencies and personal data continue to exist online. This practical guide supports you in managing the digital presence of a deceased loved one, from inventorying accounts to their deletion or memorialisation.
Widow's pension and AVS 21 reform: what changes for survivors
The AVS 21 reform ends lifelong widow's pensions for women without children. Only people born before 1970 or married before 2024 benefit from transitional measures. Cohabitation grants no rights, making private pension provision essential.
Tax deduction for funeral expenses: the guide by canton (2025)
Funeral expenses can be deducted from your tax return in Switzerland, but the rules vary greatly from one canton to another. This guide compares cantonal flat rates and actual expense deductions, and explains how to optimise your tax return in 2025.
Termination of lease after death: deadlines and template letter for heirs
The death of a loved one does not automatically terminate the lease of their accommodation. Heirs have the right to early termination under article 266i CO, but must respect a 3-month notice period for the next legal term. This guide explains the complete procedure and provides a free template letter.
Bank account frozen after a death: how to pay the bills?
After a death, the bank automatically freezes the deceased's accounts to protect the estate. This security measure can complicate the payment of funeral and medical expenses. Fortunately, a legal exception allows these urgent expenses to be settled before the account is fully unfrozen.
The certificate of inheritance in French-speaking Switzerland: procedure and costs
The certificate of inheritance is an essential official document for unlocking bank accounts and finalising an estate in Switzerland. Its issuance, costs and competent authorities vary across French-speaking cantons. This guide details the complete procedure, required documents and applicable fees.
The end of the taboo around death: towards a new culture of mourning
The taboo of death is gradually crumbling in our Western societies. Between social media, intergenerational dialogue and new educational approaches, a more open culture of mourning is emerging, transforming our collective relationship with finitude.
The digitalisation of memory: what ethical issues?
Digital memory transforms our relationship with death and remembrance. Between digital legacy, ownership of posthumous data and persistent digital identity, digitalisation raises unprecedented ethical and legal questions. A necessary reflection on the future of our online presence after death.
Death and the law: how legislation shapes our relationship with end of life
The law regulates death in precise ways, from end of life to funeral arrangements. In Switzerland, legislation defines who can decide, what is permitted and how to protect the wishes of the deceased. Understanding this legal framework helps families navigate these difficult moments with peace of mind.