Since 1st October 2022, the QR-bill has replaced the orange and red payment slips. Tenants can now pay with a QR code to pay their rent. SherlockHomes brings you all the essential information about the QR-bill.
The QR-bill was introduced in 2020 as part of efforts designed to harmonise payment traffic. Previously, the Swiss paid their bills using orange and red payment slips. Before 1st October 2022, it was possible to use these payment slips or a QR-bill. From now on, it is compulsory to pay using the QR code which appears on the new payment slips.
This new slip consists of two sections.
The QR code includes all the information needed for payment. By scanning it with a smartphone or an optical reader, the recipient no longer has to enter the information manually, which avoids errors. For invoice issuers, such as property owners who rent out their property, the QR-bill also has many advantages: process automation, savings on postage and paper, simplicity, etc.
If you rent accommodation in Geneva, Lausanne or elsewhere in Switzerland, you must pay your rent with the new QR-bill system. When you receive the invoice issued by the property owner, launch your bank's application on your smartphone, then scan the QR code and make the payment. You can also pay with a QR code via your e-banking site by scanning the code with the computer camera or by entering the payment information manually. In addition, it is always possible to pay at the post office counter by presenting the payment section of the invoice. Finally, you can also send this section by post to your bank, along with a payment order.
Imagine that you rent accommodation in Geneva and that you pay your rent by standing order based on an orange payment slip. Normally, the owner or the real estate agency must send you a QR-bill with a code that integrates the QR-IBAN (starting with "CH"). You must then create a new standing order via the mobile application or the e-banking site by scanning the QR code. Check afterwards that the payment has been made. If an owner or a real estate agency has not sent you a QR-bill, you should ask them for one, because paying with a QR code is now mandatory. The old standing order is no longer valid. However, you cannot be held responsible for late payment if it is the issuer who has not adopted the new system in time.
This article cannot be considered exhaustive and does not engage the responsibility of its author.