Individual Tax Season in South Africa: What You Need, What You Can Claim, and When to Start

If the phrase “tax season” sends a chill down your spine, you’re not alone. Every year, millions of South Africans scramble to make sense of their returns, wondering what they need, what they can claim, and whether they’re doing it right. But with a little preparation and the right support, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Here’s what you need to know as an individual taxpayer heading into the 2025 season.

Who Needs to File?

If you’re earning over R95,750 a year (from one or multiple sources), you’re likely required to submit a tax return. Even if SARS auto-assesses you, it’s still worth checking with a human tax advisor to ensure it’s correct, and that you’re not missing out on a possible rebate.

You must file if:

You’re a freelancer, contractor, or side hustler (even part-time).
You earn rental income or have multiple income streams.
You want to claim deductions for medical aid, retirement, or a home office.

Key Dates to Remember

1 July 2025 – Filing season opens
23 October 2025 – Deadline for non-provisional taxpayers (eFiling or SARS MobiApp)
31 January 2026 – Deadline for provisional taxpayers

What to Have Ready

Before you start, gather the following:

IRP5/IT3(a) from your employer(s)
Medical aid certificates
Retirement annuity contribution certificates
Travel logbook (if you receive a travel allowance)
Proof of business expenses if you’re a freelancer or contractor
Any documents showing other income (rental, investment, etc.)

What You Can Actually Claim

Here’s the good news, there are many deductions that could reduce your tax liability or boost your refund.

Retirement contributions (RA or pension fund)
Medical expenses not covered by medical aid
Home office expenses (if you meet SARS’s criteria)
Donations to registered PBOs
Business expenses for freelancers or sole proprietors

Pro tip: No, your dog’s birthday party or “research trips” to wine farms probably don’t count.

Why Filing Early Saves You Stress

SARS systems get flooded in July and August. Filing early helps you:

Avoid system crashes
Get ahead of verification delays
Receive your refund sooner
Breathe easier (no 11:59pm panic submissions here)

How TTT Makes It Easier

Filing with TTT means having a real human in your corner. Our advisors:

Know exactly what to look for and are up to scratch with the latest updates from SARS
Help you avoid mistakes that cost money
Work with you one-on-one to answer all your questions and queries
Make tax season… surprisingly pleasant

Let us handle the admin, the calculations, and the confusion, so you can get back to living your best life.

Ready to file? We’re ready for you