Swissdec explained simply
Swissdec is the Swiss quality label for payroll software. Certified programs transmit wage data via the electronic wage reporting procedure (ELM) directly to AHV compensation funds, insurers and authorities. This avoids duplicate entry and makes reporting reliable.
Correct as of October 2026. This guide provides general information and does not replace legal advice.
What Swissdec is
Swissdec is an association that sets standards for electronic data exchange around payroll. Payroll software can be certified to these standards. The label shows that a program delivers wage data in the required form.
What the wage reporting procedure transmits
Through the electronic wage reporting procedure (ELM), wage data flows from your software directly to the recipients. Depending on the case, these include the AHV compensation fund, accident insurance, daily sickness allowance and pension funds, the tax authorities for withholding tax and salary certificates, and the Federal Statistical Office.
Who gets what
- AHV compensation fund: payroll totals for contributions
- Insurers: data for accident and daily sickness allowance insurance
- Pension fund: reports for occupational pensions
- Tax authorities: withholding tax and salary certificate
- Statistics: data for the wage structure survey
How to recognise certified payroll software
On the Swissdec website you will find the list of certified products. Check whether your payroll software appears there with its current version. A note saying "Swissdec-certified" from the vendor is a good start; the list gives certainty.
What you get with 2getHR
The payroll in 2getHR is Swissdec-certified. Time, absences and expenses from 2getHR flow directly into payroll, and salary certificates are created in a few clicks. Learn more about payroll.
Frequently asked questions
Is Swissdec mandatory?
The label is voluntary. However, electronic reporting via ELM is the convenient and widespread way to deliver wage data to funds and authorities.
What does ELM stand for?
Electronic wage reporting procedure, the data exchange from software to recipient.
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