Budget 2026 Explained: Where Taxpayers Gain and Where They Don’ts
After last year’s “third-time lucky” Budget, many predicted doom and gloom this year. There was talk of the need for an additional R20 billion of tax hikes – whether in the form of the much-maligned VAT increase proposal rearing its ugly head, or direct personal income tax hikes. That didn’t happen. In presenting his 2026 […]
RA vs TFSA: What Is the Advantage of a Tax-Free Savings Account?
In his Budget Speech, the Minister of Finance announced an increase in the annual tax-free savings account (TFSA) contribution limit from R36,000 to R46,000 – the most significant boost to this allowance in years, and a timely reminder of just how powerful this vehicle can be. When used properly, it can deliver completely tax-free returns […]
Pocket Money as a Tool Against Youth Financial Illiteracy in South Africa
In 2026, South Africa continues to grapple with one of the most severe youth unemployment and financial literacy crises in the world. According to the United Nations in South Africa, unemployment stood at 31.9% at the start of 2026, while youth unemployment among those aged 15 to 34 still exceeded 46%. Financial illiteracy compounds this […]
For Many High-Income Earners, Bankruptcy Is Only a Month Away
Bankruptcy is often framed as a consequence of low wages, unstable employment, or chronic financial hardship. It is rarely associated with seven-figure salaries, prestigious job titles, or outward signs of success. Yet a growing number of high-income earners are confronting an uncomfortable truth: despite strong earnings, many are only one month away from bankruptcy. This […]
Double Tax Agreements and Pensions: When Paying Tax Twice Becomes a Reality
As the global workforce becomes increasingly mobile and retirees seek out international destinations for their golden years, the issue of cross-border taxation has grown in importance. One of the most critical tools in managing international tax burdens is the Double Tax Agreement (DTA) – especially in the context of pensions. What is a DTA? A […]
The Consequences of Making Loans to Trusts
Family trusts have long been a central feature of South African estate and wealth planning, with high-net-worth individuals using trust structures to protect assets and to save certain assets, particularly from estate duty. However, many taxpayers who hold substantial assets baulk at the idea of losing complete control over any assets that they may transfer […]
Investing in a Child’s Name? They Gain, You Pay
The reasons for putting an investment in a child’s name may well be altruistic, but it could backfire when it comes to tax. I can’t believe it’s been 13 years since my wife and I were thinking about our son starting high school. With me at seminary at the time, training to enter the Methodist […]
The ‘Big Three’ Tax Worries (part 1): Cars
What keeps taxpayers awake at night? Judging by the many questions that I’ve been asked as a tax practitioner over the years, there is a definite ‘Big Three’ when it comes to problems that cause taxpayers sleepless nights: cars, shares, and property. The tax treatment of these three items probably causes more anxiety, and has […]
Understanding Residency in Terms of Tax
When earning an income in South Africa, you are probably paying tax. The Income Tax Act 58 of 1962 (“the Act”) describes gross income as: “(i) in the case of any resident, the total amount, in cash or otherwise, received by or accrued to or in favour of such resident; or (ii) in the case […]
Understanding Your Rights as a Taxpayer: Tax Assessments and the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA)
We all pay taxes in one way or another, but as a taxpayer, it is important to understand your rights when dealing with tax authorities, the laws applicable, and whether your constitutional rights might be affected. One of the most common taxes paid is personal income tax. A critical aspect thereof is tax assessments, which […]