Tax season can be a stressful time for many individuals, with the prospect of tax returns and the uncertainty of deductions looming overhead. However, by understanding the expenses you are allowed to deduct, you can make the process of filing your taxes a breeze. In this article, we’ll delve into the various expenses that are eligible for deductions according to SARS income tax regulations.
Contents Table
Pension Fund Contributions
One of the most significant deductions available to individual taxpayers is for pension fund contributions. If you or your employer contribute to a registered pension fund, you are entitled to deduct these contributions. The deduction is limited to the greater of 7.5% of the income derived from the employment contributing to the retirement fund or R1,750. It’s essential to note that any contributions not deducted cannot be carried forward to the next tax year. Instead, they accumulate for calculating your tax-free portion of the lump sum that will be paid out upon your retirement.
Retirement Annuity Fund Contributions
Contributions to a registered retirement annuity fund are also deductible. However, the deduction is limited to the greater of R1,750 or R3,500, less the amount you claimed against your pension fund contributions. Additionally, 15% of the taxable income from income that does not contribute towards your retirement fund is deductible. Similar to pension fund contributions, any undeducted portions of the contributions may be carried forward to the next tax year.
Income Replacement Policies
Income protection policies are essential for safeguarding against the loss of income due to illness, injury, disability, or unemployment (excluding UIF benefits). The total premiums paid for these policies are tax-deductible if the benefits, when paid to the policyholder, will be taxable. It’s important to keep in mind that if you successfully claim against the policy due to any of the above-mentioned circumstances, the amount paid by the insurer will be included in your taxable income calculation.
Donations
Donations can also provide significant deductions if they are made to public benefit organizations and meet certain criteria. Donations are deductible up to 10% of your taxable income before the deduction of donations and medical expenses, provided you have a valid section 18A donations certificate. By supporting these organizations, you not only contribute to a good cause but also reduce your taxable income.
In addition to these deductions, in our next article, we will explore three more major expenses that individual taxpayers are allowed to deduct: travel expenses, medical expenses, and home office expenses.
Filing your tax return doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding the deductions available to you, you can maximize your potential tax benefits while ensuring compliance with SARS regulations. We aim to provide you with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed financial decisions. If you have any questions or need assistance with your taxes, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Your financial success is our top priority.
