Don’t Lose That Tax Loss!
Sustaining losses on certain activities, blissfully assuming that SARS will chip in at year-end? Make sure that this loss is not ‘lost’ forever. Many people have invested in second properties based on the knowledge that, for the first few years at least, they would have to fund the shortfall until such time as the rents […]
From Departure to Encashment
How the two-pot retirement system impacts expats The much-anticipated two-pot retirement system, introduced as a ‘knight in shining armour’ for South Africans, has received a new implementation date of March 2024. Expats are cautioned to pay attention to the effects that this will have on the encashment of their retirement savings. While many have addressed […]
Beware of Tax-Related Scams
Over the past five years, the SAFPS has seen a steady increase in the number of tax-related scams. Improved efficiency To improve efficiency when it comes to processing tax returns, and to encourage individuals and businesses to file their tax returns timeously, SARS launched its eFiling service in 2000. This allows taxpayers to file their […]
General Principles for Tax Deductions
When can you deduct an expense? Section 11(a) contains the general principles One of the most-asked tax questions goes along the lines of “can I deduct xxx against my income?” There are two ways to answer this type of question. One is to create a never-ending list of every type of deduction one could contemplate, […]
Tempted to use AI as a personal finance assistant? Limitations and risk factors to consider
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionised numerous industries, including personal finance. With AI chatbots providing real-time, human-like responses to queries, one might be tempted to fully entrust their financial management to these digital assistants. However, while AI offers undeniable benefits, it’s essential to understand its limitations, particularly when dealing with sensitive areas such as personal finance. […]
Building financial resilience in challenging times
The Consumer Financial Vulnerability Index Q2 2023(CFVI) report published by Momentum and Unisa1 highlights that South Africans have been grappling with financial vulnerability for an extended period, with various economic factors contributing to this predicament. Financial struggles amidst rising costs As South Africa grapples with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and a challenging economic […]
Tax breaks for retirement funding
While there are very few tax breaks for individuals, some huge ones are available for retirement funding. Retirement tax breaks in South Africa are designed to incentivise individuals to save for retirement and provide them with tax relief on contributions to retirement funds. The government has implemented various tax incentives over the years to encourage […]
Renewable energy tax incentives
Government is encouraging investment in renewable energy—but as always, there are caveats While this year’s Budget was largely devoid of surprises, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana made one announcement that was widely anticipated following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation speech, and will hopefully help taxpayers alleviate some of the pain of dealing with loadshedding. […]