1. Know If You’re Auto-Assessed
SARS may pre-fill your return using third-party data (banks, employers, medical schemes). You’ll get an SMS or email if selected.
⚠️ Don’t just accept it—check every line for accuracy before confirming.
2. Gather Your Supporting Documents Early
Start collecting:
-
IRP5/IT3(a) from your employer
-
Medical aid tax certificates
-
Retirement annuity contribution slips
-
Bank and investment statements
-
Travel logbooks (if claiming car expenses)
-
Home office expenses (if working remotely)
🗂 Leozzy clients get a secure upload portal for fast, paperless filing.
3. Avoid the Top Mistakes
Common errors we see:
-
Claiming expenses without proof
-
Using incorrect travel logbooks
-
Forgetting provisional tax payments
-
Filing under the wrong tax number or year
🚫 These can lead to audits or auto-penalties—even if unintentional.
4. Don’t Rely on Refunds
Your refund isn’t guaranteed. SARS may:
-
Offset it against old debts
-
Delay it for verification
-
Reduce it based on pre-assessment changes
💸 File early and realistically. A refund isn’t a savings plan.
5. File Even If You Earn Under R95,750
Technically, you’re not required to file if:
-
You’re under 65 and earn below R95,750 from one employer
But:
✅ You should still file if:
-
You want a refund
-
You contribute to an RA
-
You receive investment or freelance income
6. Get Help for Complex Returns
If you:
-
Run a side business
-
Earn rental or foreign income
-
Sold assets (shares, property, crypto)
…it’s worth getting a qualified tax practitioner. One mistake can cost far more than a tax service fee.
💡 Leozzy offers transparent pricing and fast turnaround filing.
7. Plan Ahead for 2026
Tax planning isn’t just for July–October. Use this year’s return to:
-
Adjust RA contributions
-
Review medical cover
-
Track side hustle income more cleanly
-
Set reminders for provisional tax if needed
🧾 Bonus: Documents Checklist for Individuals
| ✅ Item | Required? |
|---|---|
| IRP5/IT3(a) from employer | ✔️ |
| Retirement annuity certificates | ✔️ |
| Medical aid certificate | ✔️ |
| Bank interest/investment IT3(b) | ✔️ |
| Proof of donations (18A certs) | ✔️ |
| Logbook (travel deduction) | ❗ If claiming travel |
| Rental income/expenses log | ❗ If applicable |
| Crypto gains/losses report | ❗ If applicable |
🗨️ Leozzy’s Final Advice
“Start early, stay organized, and don’t guess. The stress comes when you leave it too late or try to do it all yourself.”
Let Leozzy Accounting help you file smarter, faster, and with peace of mind.
📞 Ready to file?
Call us or book your free 15-minute tax consultation today.
📧 info@leozzy.co.za | 🌐 www.leozzy.co.za
