Maximise your tax benefits this filing season

YOU know it's tax season when there's a rise in the old 'death and taxes' humour.

- ROXANNA NAIDOO

But this year's biggest clue has been the media hype around Sars' artificial intelligence-driven tactics to enforce tax collections. The South African fiscus needs money, in a country where only 7.4 million (12%) of the population of 64m pay personal income tax, while 28m (44%) rely on social grants.

However, fearmongering isn't helpful. I prefer to highlight the positives so taxpayers understand how to use SA's tax mechanisms for their benefit. Whether you have an accountant, a tax practitioner, or file your own tax return, look out for the following points to legally reduce what you owe Sars, maximise refunds, and combat tax debt in 2025.

Take control of your finances

Sars is indeed increasing scrutiny and ramping up tax collection measures. But don't panic. Tax season is an annual opportunity to assess your finances - a tool for getting your tax affairs in order. Go have a look at what you owe Sars; you may be surprised that Sars owes you money.

Get ahead of the curve