PostFinance Private Account Smart

Nine currencies, a savings account, and nationwide access. PostFinance bundles it for CHF 5.

The PostFinance Private Account Smart ranks #21 among Switzerland's 45 private accounts. It's a banking package that bundles a private account, savings account, and PostFinance card into one plan. The multi-currency support and PostFinance's massive Swiss network make it a practical choice for specific needs.

What Does CHF 5 Per Year Get You?

Account management is just CHF 5 per year, and the PostFinance card is included at no extra cost. That's one of the cheapest banking packages in Switzerland. Domestic payments and SEPA transfers are both free. Even non-SEPA international payments only cost CHF 2 each, which is among the lowest rates available.

The package includes a savings account alongside your private account, both available in CHF or EUR. Cash at PostFinance ATMs is free, but third-party ATMs cost CHF 2 and international withdrawals run CHF 5 each. For everyday banking, the all-in cost is hard to beat.

What Actually Stands Out

Multi-currency account management across nine currencies is the standout feature. CHF, EUR, USD, AUD, CAD, DKK, GBP, JPY, NOK, and SEK. You can hold and manage accounts in any of these. That's rare at this price point and useful if you deal with multiple currencies regularly.

PostFinance operates through post offices across the country, giving you physical access points in virtually every Swiss town. The included savings account is a nice bonus that most standalone private accounts don't offer at this price.

What Most Reviews Miss

The PostFinance Card is only available for accounts in CHF and EUR. If you open an account in USD or GBP, you won't get a payment card for it. The Mastercard Debit card is tied to your Swiss franc or euro account only.

Interest on the account is 0%, so your balance doesn't grow. The age requirement is 20 and over, which is relatively accessible. While the package is affordable, PostFinance's reputation for customer service is mixed, with long wait times and limited phone support being consistent complaints from users.

The Bottom Line

At CHF 5 per year with multi-currency support, a savings account, and nationwide access, PostFinance Smart offers remarkable value for everyday banking. It's not flashy, but it covers the basics comprehensively. See how it compares in our find the best bank account for your needs tool.

Verdict: Hard to beat on price for multi-currency banking. Ideal if you don't mind PostFinance's sometimes slow customer service.