How to make sure you maximise any tax benefits before the end of Feb

PL

Paula Luckhoff

27 January 2026 | 20:58

Personal finance guru Warren Ingram takes you through the steps to make use of any tax breaks.

How to make sure you maximise any tax benefits before the end of Feb

Sars, tax - © jarretera/123rf.com

We're about a month away from the end of the tax year, which means it is time to start preparing yourself now.

The year of assessment, or tax year, runs from 1 March to 28 February the following year.

Taxpayers don't get many breaks from the South African Revenue Service (SARS), but there are things you can do to maximise your finances, says Galileo Capital's Warren Ingram.

"We should be sure to take full advantage of our opportunities to maximise our savings and minimise the tax we have to pay."

Ingram shares steps you can take before the end of February.

Retirement Fund contributions

You can deduct up to 27.5% of your taxable income, capped at R350,000 per year.
Quick math: If you're in the 41% tax bracket and contribute R10,000, you save R4,100 in tax.
One-off lump sum contributions count – you don't need a monthly debit order.
Check what you've contributed YTD first; don't over-contribute past the limit.
Medical Expenses
If you had big out-of-pocket medical expenses (above scheme limits), keep those receipts.
Medical expenses can qualify for additional deductions.
Donations to Public Benefit Organisations
Donations to registered public benefit organisations are deductible up to 10% of taxable income. 
You must have a Section 18A certificate.
It's an easy way to reduce tax while supporting causes you care about.
Travel Logbook
If you claim business travel in your car, SARS wants a proper logbook.
February is your last chance to ensure it's updated and accurate.
SARS is getting stricter on this, so accuracy is important.

Tax Admin

Start gathering: IRP5, IT3b/c certificates, RA contributions, medical aid certificates now.
Consider whether you need a tax practitioner this year

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to Ingram's detailed advice

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