Your A-to-Z Guide to the Third Pillar:
Tax perks, growth, protection

Discover everything you need to know about the third pillar and private pension: truly understand how it works and make informed decisions.

  • 13+ years of experience
  • 100% digital
  • 3200+ customers
  • 4.9 on Google
Last updated 02.06.2025
# Company 2024 Return Features Rating
2 Best Insurance Companies of 2025

Helvetia

Premium Pension

28.19%

  • Wide selection of investment funds
  • Preferred options for home purchase
  • Annual surplus distribution of 0.35%

Rating4.85/5

Helvetia
Information

Founded in 1858 in St. Gallen, Helvetia is one of Switzerland's most historic and well-established insurance companies. Over the years, it has built a solid reputation as a reliable partner for asset protection and pension planning. Today it operates throughout Switzerland and several European countries, offering modern and flexible solutions for both third pillar and life insurance. Helvetia stands out for its ability to combine tradition and innovation, offering adaptable contracts, a strong digital component, and high-quality advisory support.

Rating
4.85
2 Best Insurance Companies of 2025

Swiss Life

Dynamic Elements Duo

20.06%

  • Customizable security/return mix
  • Up to 2% return on non-invested capital
  • Preferred options for home purchase

Rating4.85/5

Swiss Life
Information

Swiss Life was founded in 1857 under the name "Schweizerische Lebensversicherungs- und Rentenanstalt" and is today the leading group in Switzerland for life insurance and private pensions. Listed on the Zurich Stock Exchange and active in several European countries, Swiss Life is synonymous with financial solidity and expertise in long-term planning. Its third pillar and life insurance solutions are designed to guarantee freedom of choice, tax optimization, and long-term security. Thanks to its long history and network of expert consultants, it's one of the reference points for those looking to build a financially secure future.

Rating
4.85
4 Best Insurance Companies of 2025

Liechtenstein Life

Prosperity Duo

19.11%

  • Over 200 investment funds available
  • Option with capital guaranteed at maturity
  • Prosperity application

Rating4.75/5

Liechtenstein Life
Information

Liechtenstein Life, part of The Prosperity Company AG group, is a young and dynamic company founded in 2008 in the Principality of Liechtenstein. Although more recent than other insurance giants, it has quickly established itself thanks to its innovative approach: pension solutions completely focused on investment, with extremely flexible contracts. It's the ideal choice for those looking for a modern policy, portable internationally and focused on performance.

Rating
4.75
5 Best Insurance Companies of 2025

Generali

Flex Pension

13.60%

  • ESG funds available (sustainability theme)
  • Guaranteed capital with choice between 20% and 90%
  • No difference in rates for smokers and non-smokers

Rating4.75/5

Generali
Information

Generali is one of the oldest insurance groups in the world, founded in Trieste in 1831. Today it operates in over 50 countries, with a strong presence in Switzerland where it has been active for over 140 years. Generali Switzerland offers comprehensive and customizable pension solutions, designed to support people through every stage of life. Their life insurance and third pillar products stand out for service quality, coverage reliability, and the opportunity to benefit from long-term advantages and bonuses. All this is supported by an extensive network of competent consultants.

Rating
4.75
2 Best Insurance Companies of 2025

Zurich

Zurich Invest

14.62%

  • TIF strategies with mix of stocks and bonds
  • Strategy switching available free of charge
  • Excellent rates for insurance coverage

Rating4.75/5

Zurich
Information

Founded in 1872, Zurich Insurance Group is one of the most well-known insurance companies in the world, headquartered in Zurich itself. For over 150 years, Zurich has been protecting families, self-employed workers, and businesses in more than 200 countries. In Switzerland, Zurich offers comprehensive and cutting-edge pension solutions that combine financial stability, digital technologies, and access to modern investment strategies. Their third pillar policies and life insurance are highly customizable, ideal both for those seeking security and those aiming for capital growth.

Rating
4.75

What exactly does the third pillar offer and why does it convince so many Swiss people?

The third pillar is a private savings instrument designed to compensate for the major gaps in state pensions. It's the right way to save, protect your income, and ensure a future for the people you care about. Scroll through this page to find insights and comparisons.

Tax advantages

With the third pillar, you can save an average of CHF 2,032 in taxes every year. As a self-employed person, you can save up to CHF 10,160.

Savings multiplier

The global stock market has returned an average of 9.1% annually, increasing savers' capital by 320% over the last 15 years. With the third pillar, you can find equally valid investment options.

Insurance coverage

Get greater guarantees for your income and secure a future for your loved ones with tailored insurance benefits.

The challenges we all face

Severely insufficient state pension

Relying on the first and second pillars is a risky choice: In fact, these typically cover only about 60% of previous income.

Constant increase in cost of living

Rent, health insurance, daily expenses: living in Switzerland gets more expensive every year. In Zurich, 500g of bread cost 2.40 CHF in 2020. Today it's 3.10 CHF: +29% in 5 years.

Disability? Income plummets

In Switzerland, 1 in 19 people receives disability benefits. With disability, income drops suddenly, and balancing the household budget immediately becomes a concrete problem.

Life insurance, or third pillar?

With the third pillar, you can get insurance coverage along with your savings plan. Often, this reduces the costs of benefits in case of premature death.
Life insurance, on the other hand, offers only insurance coverage. In this case, no capital is received at maturity (as the premium consists 100% of costs).

Insurance coverage

Life Insurance

Features

  • No savings or accumulation plan
  • No investment in funds
  • No capital at maturity
  • Capital in case of death
  • Pension in case of disability
  • Possible tax advantages
  • Premium payment exemption in case of earning incapacity

Savings plan + Insurance coverage

Third Pillar

Features

  • Savings and accumulation plan
  • Investment in funds
  • Capital at maturity
  • Capital in case of death
  • Pension in case of disability
  • Possible tax advantages
  • Premium payment exemption in case of earning incapacity
FINMA Certification

Can't work due to illness? The insurance pays for you!

In case of illness or accident, the premium waiver coverage comes into effect. The insurance pays your premium until you return to work. If returning to work isn't possible, the insurance continues paying the premium until maturity, ensuring you receive the necessary capital for your retirement.

Comparing Pillar 3A and Pillar 3B

3A and 3B have many things in common: the selected product, insurance benefits, investment type and guarantees. However, they differ in the following criteria:

Insurance coverage

Pillar 3B

Features

  • Paid premiums are not tax-deductible
  • No annual savings limit
  • Freedom to choose beneficiaries in case of death
  • Capital can be accessed at any time

Insurance coverage + savings plan

Pillar 3A

Features

  • Paid premiums are fully tax-deductible
  • Maximum annual premium of 7,258 CHF (36,288 CHF for self-employed individuals)
  • Spouse and children are legal heirs. Third-party beneficiaries can be freely chosen
  • Capital can only be accessed for 5 reasons: purchase of primary residence, starting a business, permanent relocation abroad, early retirement, and ordinary retirement

They work with us

182,907 CHF in 5 years: Don't make this mistake

7,258 CHF over 25 years generates 397,542 CHF with interest. Over 30 years, the maturity capital amounts to 580,449 CHF.
A difference of 182,907 CHF. This growth is possible thanks to compound interest, which gets reinvested annually in your savings plan.
Every year you delay starting your Pillar 3A significantly reduces your final capital!

Get guaranteed fixed conditions

Once your contract is signed, benefit costs remain fixed for the entire duration and you won't need to worry about future insurance rate increases - which happen frequently.
Additionally, since the contract requires a self-declaration of health status, it's best to secure your terms while you're still in good health.

TAXES: Here's how to save 60,967 CHF

Pillar 3A premiums are tax-deductible. An employee can contribute up to 7,258 CHF annually, with average tax savings of 2,032 CHF per year. Over a 30-year contract, this optimization can reach 60,967 CHF!

Self-employed individuals (not affiliated with a pension fund) can contribute up to 36,288 CHF annually, saving an average of 10,160 CHF in taxes each year.

Bank vs Insurance Comparison

When planning your financial future, it's crucial to understand the differences between banking and insurance solutions. While banking products offer some guarantees, insurance solutions stand out for their superior protection, flexibility, and tax benefits, providing more comprehensive and targeted coverage for you and your loved ones.

Traditional solution with limitations

Banking

Features

  • Disability coverage
  • Death benefit coverage
  • Savings protection in case of accident or illness
  • Investment capital guarantee
  • Option for flexible Pillar 3B solution
  • Family and heirs protection
  • Mortgage coverage guarantee
  • Product maintenance after relocating abroad
  • Fully tax-deductible contributions
  • Excellent returns through investments

The most complete and advantageous choice

Insurance

Features

  • Disability coverage
  • Death benefit coverage
  • Savings protection in case of accident or illness
  • Investment capital guarantee
  • Option for flexible Pillar 3B solution
  • Family and heirs protection
  • Mortgage coverage guarantee
  • Fully tax-deductible contributions
  • Excellent returns through investments
  • Freedom to choose beneficiaries with Pillar 3B solution
  • Product maintenance after relocating abroad

Digital conclusion and online assistance: from your living room couch

How great is it not having to leave your home? We work 100% online using only digital tools: communication via video call, phone, or WhatsApp. Fast processing with electronic signatures.

Messages

You can write to us whenever you want, receiving clear and prompt responses from a real consultant.

Video calls

A face, a name, an expert. We support you with personalized virtual meetings.

Phone calls

If you prefer voice communication, we're available wherever and whenever you want.

Electronic signature

We finalize everything online securely and certified, even from your smartphone.

Our Customer Reviews

Feedback from those who chose Loyal Group for their financial future.

"I was very frustrated because my third pillar was yielding very little. With Loyal Group I discovered the management fees were extremely high. We then signed a new, much more efficient contract. Transparent and professional!"

SB

Sabina B. on Google Business Review

"At the beginning of the year I was looking for a third pillar solution, but online I only found confusing information and complicated offers. Then I discovered Loyal Group: they clarified all my doubts and found the right solution for me. Now I feel informed and secure about my financial future. Thank you!"

UB

Umberto B. on Google Business Review

"I was skeptical when I requested the consultation, after negative experiences with other brokers. I must admit it was worth it though! Thank you Santo."

LB

Luigi B. on Google Business Review

"Unfortunately my sister could no longer work after an illness and stopped receiving a salary. I wanted to understand my own situation and they helped me with a personalized financial analysis! Issues that are too often underestimated - I recommend everyone look into them."

BR

Borsalino R. on Google Business Review

"For years I paid direct amortization for my house, unaware that the third pillar offered advantages. Loyal Group helped me revise my bank contract to fully benefit from them!"

GB

Giovanni B. on Google Business Review

"When buying a house I had many doubts about protecting my family. With Loyal Group we planned everything down to the smallest detail. Highly recommended."

PG

Pro G. on Google Business Review

"I've been Santo's client for 11 years now, and thanks to his planning I finally saved enough for my apartment down payment!"

RG

Rebecca G. on Google Business Review

"My third pillar yields more than expected every year. I can only thank Loyal for the advice I received five years ago!"

PZ

Paolo Z. on Google Business Review

"I had no idea about third pillar tax benefits until I spoke with a Loyal Group consultant. Now I save on taxes every year and feel much more secure about my future."

MR

Martina R. on Google Business Review

"The consultation was clear and pressure-free. They explained every detail simply, and I could choose the right solution calmly."

GS

Giorgio S. on Google Business Review

"I already had a policy, but it no longer suited my situation. Loyal Group analyzed everything and proposed a more advantageous alternative. Finally I feel truly protected."

CM

Chiara M. on Google Business Review

"Professionalism, transparency and competence. I never thought pension planning could be so accessible and useful."

DL

Daniele L. on Google Business Review

"I particularly appreciated that Loyal Group consultants are independent. I knew the advice I received was truly in my interest, not dictated by a company."

EC

Elena C. on Google Business Review

Our winning strategy, for you

We don't sell pre-packaged solutions. We analyze, compare, and choose together with you. Always.

Comprehensive analysis

We thoroughly evaluate your personal, professional and tax situation.

Transparent comparison

We put the best companies in competition to give you top quality at the best price.

Your interests come first

We work for you, not for the companies. Our proposals are always impartial.

Complete transparency

We explain every detail: costs, benefits, conditions and alternatives.

Continuous follow-up

We support you over time, keeping you updated and adapting solutions to your new needs.

Meet the Team

With Loyal Group's team, you can review your financial situation, identify any gaps, and find the most effective tools to optimize your savings, pensions, and future protection.

Santo Serrao

Financial Advisor IAF
FINMA No. F01330534

Theo Crestani

Financial Advisor IAF
FINMA No. F01200842

Renato Marangoni

Insurance Advisor AFA
MSc in Banking & Finance
FINMA No. F01522758

Delphine Andrade

Insurance Advisor AFA
MSc in Banking & Finance
FINMA No. F01521818

Dario Nardone

Financial Advisor IAF
FINMA No. F01486908

With Loyal Group, choose an established leader in the pension sector

We're not just intermediaries. We're your partner in pension and financial planning.

No extra costs

Clients pay the same fees as they would by going directly to the insurance company.

Market independent

We don't work for insurers—we work for you! Loyal Group analyzes the market and provides you with the best available options.

Our expertise, at your service

We've been operating in the market since 2012, with over 7,880 contracts signed. We have in-depth market knowledge and want to put our experience to work for you.

FINMA Certification

Official FINMA Certification

Loyal Group is an independent broker registered with FINMA (license no. F01202725). FINMA is the Swiss authority that supervises the insurance and financial sector: this ensures that we comply with clear regulations, continuously update our practices, and protect our clients' rights.

Since we are not tied to any specific insurance company, we can recommend only the policies we genuinely believe are best for you, with the assurance of full regulatory compliance.

Compare the leading Third Pillar companies

# Company 2024 Return Features Rating
2 Best Insurance Companies of 2025

Helvetia

Premium Pension

28.19%

  • Wide selection of investment funds
  • Preferred options for home purchase
  • Annual surplus distribution of 0.35%

Rating4.85/5

Helvetia
Information

Founded in 1858 in St. Gallen, Helvetia is one of Switzerland's most historic and well-established insurance companies. Over the years, it has built a solid reputation as a reliable partner for asset protection and pension planning. Today it operates throughout Switzerland and several European countries, offering modern and flexible solutions for both third pillar and life insurance. Helvetia stands out for its ability to combine tradition and innovation, offering adaptable contracts, a strong digital component, and high-quality advisory support.

Rating
4.85
2 Best Insurance Companies of 2025

Swiss Life

Dynamic Elements Duo

20.06%

  • Customizable security/return mix
  • Up to 2% return on non-invested capital
  • Preferred options for home purchase

Rating4.85/5

Swiss Life
Information

Swiss Life was founded in 1857 under the name "Schweizerische Lebensversicherungs- und Rentenanstalt" and is today the leading group in Switzerland for life insurance and private pensions. Listed on the Zurich Stock Exchange and active in several European countries, Swiss Life is synonymous with financial solidity and expertise in long-term planning. Its third pillar and life insurance solutions are designed to guarantee freedom of choice, tax optimization, and long-term security. Thanks to its long history and network of expert consultants, it's one of the reference points for those looking to build a financially secure future.

Rating
4.85
4 Best Insurance Companies of 2025

Liechtenstein Life

Prosperity Duo

19.11%

  • Over 200 investment funds available
  • Option with capital guaranteed at maturity
  • Prosperity application

Rating4.75/5

Liechtenstein Life
Information

Liechtenstein Life, part of The Prosperity Company AG group, is a young and dynamic company founded in 2008 in the Principality of Liechtenstein. Although more recent than other insurance giants, it has quickly established itself thanks to its innovative approach: pension solutions completely focused on investment, with extremely flexible contracts. It's the ideal choice for those looking for a modern policy, portable internationally and focused on performance.

Rating
4.75
5 Best Insurance Companies of 2025

Generali

Flex Pension

13.60%

  • ESG funds available (sustainability theme)
  • Guaranteed capital with choice between 20% and 90%
  • No difference in rates for smokers and non-smokers

Rating4.75/5

Generali
Information

Generali is one of the oldest insurance groups in the world, founded in Trieste in 1831. Today it operates in over 50 countries, with a strong presence in Switzerland where it has been active for over 140 years. Generali Switzerland offers comprehensive and customizable pension solutions, designed to support people through every stage of life. Their life insurance and third pillar products stand out for service quality, coverage reliability, and the opportunity to benefit from long-term advantages and bonuses. All this is supported by an extensive network of competent consultants.

Rating
4.75
2 Best Insurance Companies of 2025

Zurich

Zurich Invest

14.62%

  • TIF strategies with mix of stocks and bonds
  • Strategy switching available free of charge
  • Excellent rates for insurance coverage

Rating4.75/5

Zurich
Information

Founded in 1872, Zurich Insurance Group is one of the most well-known insurance companies in the world, headquartered in Zurich itself. For over 150 years, Zurich has been protecting families, self-employed workers, and businesses in more than 200 countries. In Switzerland, Zurich offers comprehensive and cutting-edge pension solutions that combine financial stability, digital technologies, and access to modern investment strategies. Their third pillar policies and life insurance are highly customizable, ideal both for those seeking security and those aiming for capital growth.

Rating
4.75
Let's talk on WhatsApp