Call money accounts in Switzerland: flexible saving with attractive interest rates

In times of fluctuating interest rates, many people in Switzerland are looking for safe yet flexible ways to grow their savings. Call money accounts offer an appealing option. They combine the security of a bank account with daily accessibility and interest payments.

Unlike traditional savings or fixed-term deposit accounts, your money remains accessible at any time, without notice periods or withdrawal limits. This makes call money accounts particularly attractive for those who don’t want to tie up their funds over the long term.

In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about call money accounts in Switzerland – how they work, what benefits they offer, and what to consider when choosing the right one.

What is a call money account?

A call money account is an interest-bearing bank account that lets you keep your savings accessible at any time while earning interest. This flexible form of saving is ideal for short- to medium-term goals – such as covering unexpected expenses or planning future purchases.

Call money accounts are worthwhile because your funds remain fully accessible while earning interest. They help reduce the impact of inflation on your purchasing power and are generally a better option than leaving money uninvested in a current account. For building up savings in the short to medium term and creating a financial buffer, they offer a practical solution.

What makes a call money account a good savings option?

Call money accounts combine flexibility with security. In Switzerland, balances are protected by statutory deposit insurance up to 100’000 CHF per person and per bank.

Your money remains accessible at all times – unlike with fixed-term deposits, there are no lock-in periods. You can access your entire balance whenever you want, without penalties or withdrawal fees. These features make call money a practical option for emergency funds or financial reserves.

Compared with traditional savings accounts at major banks, call money accounts tend to offer more flexibility and often more attractive interest rates. Online banks in particular frequently provide better conditions, as they operate with lower overhead costs and can pass these savings on to customers.

How do call money accounts work in Switzerland?

The basic principle is simple, but there are some Swiss-specific features worth noting:

• Deposit protection and regulation: As mentioned above, deposits at Swiss banks are protected by law up to 100’000 CHF per person. This applies in the unlikely event that a bank becomes insolvent. Providers of call money accounts in Switzerland ideally hold a banking licence from FINMA, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority, which adds an extra layer of trust and security.

• Interest and payments: Call money interest rates are variable and may change at any time. They are influenced by market conditions, such as the Swiss National Bank’s key interest rate, and vary from one provider to another. Besides the rate itself, it’s also worth checking how interest is paid: many banks credit interest once a year, while others do so monthly. The more frequent the payouts, the stronger the compounding effect, as your earned interest starts earning interest sooner.

• Availability and conditions: A true call money account allows full daily access to your funds. Many modern providers no longer require minimum deposits, making them accessible even for average savers. Unlike traditional savings accounts, call money accounts generally have no withdrawal limits or notice periods. That said, it's worth checking the terms carefully when opening an account – some savings accounts only offer free withdrawals up to a certain amount and require advance notice for larger withdrawals. Ideally, you’ll want an account without such limits for maximum flexibility.

• Fees and account management: Call money accounts are typically free to open and maintain, as banks want to attract your deposits. Digital providers in particular often charge no maintenance fees at all.

• Currencies: A unique feature among Swiss providers is the option to hold call money accounts in foreign currencies. This allows you to earn interest not only on CHF but also on EUR or USD balances, for example. That can be practical if you already hold foreign currencies – whether for travel or as part of a diversification strategy.

Saving with Alpian: a modern banking solution with the benefits of a call money account

Alpian offers an innovative solution on the Swiss market, combining modern banking with attractive saving opportunities. As a client, you benefit from interest on your balances in multiple currencies – all with a high degree of flexibility.

Currently, Alpian offers an interest-bearing savings account in CHF, along with a current account that pays interest on balances in EUR and USD. These accounts offer many of the same benefits as traditional call money accounts.

Interest is credited monthly. This means your earned interest is added to your account every month, allowing you to benefit immediately from the power of compounding. Your wealth grows continuously – whether you’re waiting for a good opportunity or getting closer to your savings goal. And of course, at Alpian, deposits are protected by law up to 100’000 CHF per person, just like at any traditional bank.

Opening an account with Alpian is quick and entirely digital. In just a few minutes, you can open an account through the Alpian app – no paperwork, no branch visits. There are no account maintenance fees, and no minimum deposit is required.

Alpian stands out as a modern bank that combines attractive interest rates, full flexibility, and Swiss-level security. If you’re looking to get more out of your money in today’s interest rate environment – without taking on unnecessary risk – Alpian’s interest-bearing accounts are an appealing option.

Frequently asked questions about call money accounts

What’s the difference between a call money account and a savings account?

A call money account gives you unrestricted daily access to your money. Savings accounts, on the other hand, often have limitations like monthly withdrawal limits or notice periods. Interest rates on call money accounts also tend to differ from those on traditional savings accounts.

What’s the difference between call money and fixed-term deposits?

With a fixed-term deposit, your money is locked in for a specific period and earns a guaranteed interest rate. During that time, the funds are usually not accessible or only under specific conditions. A call money account offers daily access with no fixed term – though interest rates may vary.

How safe are call money accounts in Switzerland?

Call money accounts at Swiss banks are highly secure. Deposits are protected by Swiss law up to 100’000 CHF per person. Providers are regulated by FINMA, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority.

Do I have to pay tax on the interest I earn from a call money account?

Yes. Interest earned on a call money account is taxable in Switzerland and must be declared in your tax return. Depending on the provider and the amount, a 35% withholding tax may be deducted at source – but this can be reclaimed if declared properly.

How do I open a call money account?

These days, most accounts can be opened online or via app. Many providers allow you to open a call money account in just a few minutes, without any paperwork. All you need is valid ID (e.g. via video identification or e-ID).

Conclusion: flexible saving with a call money account

Call money accounts in Switzerland offer a way to grow your savings while keeping full access to your funds. They combine interest earnings with daily availability – an ideal option for short-term saving goals or emergency reserves.

Alpian offers modern banking with smart saving options: attractive interest rates on CHF, EUR, and USD balances, paperless digital account opening, and the security of a regulated Swiss bank. The combination of flexible access and interest makes it a strong option for many Swiss savers. Open your account today and let your money work for you – safely and efficiently.