Investment Account Comparison: ISK vs KF vs AF (2026)
Compare ISK, Kapitalförsäkring, and Aktie- & Fondkonto to choose the optimal account for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between ISK, KF, and AF?
ISK and KF are taxed yearly with a flat-rate model. AF is taxed when you realize gains (sell). KF is an insurance wrapper, which can also affect practical details like beneficiaries and provider terms.
How is the ISK/KF flat-rate tax calculated?
It is based on your capital base and the average government bond rate (statslåneränta) plus one percentage point, with a minimum level. The calculated flat-rate income is then taxed at 30%.
What is the 2026 tax-free allowance (300,000 SEK)?
In 2026, part of the flat-rate base for ISK/KF can be reduced by a tax-free allowance, which can lower the total tax. The calculator models this for the selected year.
When can AF be the better choice?
AF can be favorable if you expect low returns, plan to sell rarely, or want to offset gains with losses. Since tax is paid on realized profit, timing matters more than for ISK/KF.
Is KF always the same as ISK from a tax perspective?
The flat-rate tax model is similar, but KF can differ in practical terms (such as beneficiaries and handling of foreign withholding tax). Fees and provider terms can also affect net results.
Choose the Right Investment Account for 2026
There are three main types of investment accounts in Sweden: ISK (Investment Savings Account), Kapitalförsäkring (Capital Insurance), and Aktie- & Fondkonto (Stock & Fund Account). Each account type has different tax rules that affect your net returns. With our comparison calculator, you can easily see which account type suits you best based on your circumstances and expected returns.
2026 Tax Rules
ISK and KF are taxed with a flat-rate model based on the capital base and the government bond rate + 1 percentage point (minimum 1.0%). The tax is 30% of the calculated flat-rate income, and a tax-free allowance can reduce the taxable base. AF is instead taxed with 30% capital gains tax on realized gains. For long-term investors, ISK/KF may be advantageous since the tax is independent of actual returns, while AF may be better if you rarely realize gains or have low returns.
Compare and Optimize
Use our calculator to compare different scenarios. Enter the balance for each account type, expected annual return, and tax year. The calculator shows annual tax, net return, and effective tax rate for each account type, so you can make informed decisions about where to place your savings capital.
ISK vs KF vs AF: how to compare
In Sweden, three common ways to invest in funds and shares are:
- ISK (Investeringssparkonto)
- KF (Kapitalförsäkring)
- AF (Aktie- och fondkonto)
They can all hold similar investments, but the tax rules differ, which can affect your net result over time.
The key idea
- ISK and KF are usually taxed via an annual standard income (often described as a “flat-rate tax”), based on the account value.
- AF is typically taxed when you sell at a profit (capital gains tax).
Which one is “best” depends on your time horizon, expected return, how much you trade, and which tax rules apply for the year.
How to use this calculator
- Enter your starting balance and monthly savings.
- Choose an expected annual return and the saving period.
- Select the year the comparison should use.
- (Optional) Open advanced settings to adjust assumptions.
The calculator estimates:
- End value after estimated tax for ISK, KF, and AF
- Total tax over the period
- Average annual tax
Things to keep in mind
- Rules can change. Always verify important decisions with current information.
- Fees and spreads matter. A slightly “better” tax outcome can be offset by higher product fees.
- Risk is separate from account type. A higher expected return often implies higher risk.
This comparison is meant as a planning tool, not as legal or tax advice.
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