How to Get a Bigger Refund from SARS: Hacks That Actually Work

Filing your tax return with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) can be daunting, but understanding how to maximise your refund can make the process rewarding. Here’s a factual, informative guide on how to get a bigger refund from SARS in the 2025 tax season, using practical tips and insights based on current SARS rules and procedures.

RELEVANT ARTICLE: Everything You Need to Know About Filing Your 2025 SARS Tax Return

1. Understand SARS Tax Brackets and Thresholds

For the 2025/2026 tax year, SARS tax rates are progressive, with rates ranging from 18% to 45% depending on your taxable income. The tax threshold for individuals under 65 years is R95,750, meaning you only start paying tax if your annual income exceeds this amount. Knowing where you fall in the tax brackets helps you plan deductions and claims strategically.

2. Keep Accurate Records of Deductible Expenses

SARS allows deductions on certain expenses that can reduce your taxable income, increasing your refund. Key deductible expenses include:

• Medical expenses: Contributions to medical schemes and out-of-pocket medical costs above a certain threshold can be claimed.
• Retirement annuities, pension, and provident fund contributions: These reduce your taxable income and can significantly increase your refund.
• Travel expenses: If you use your vehicle for work purposes (excluding commuting), you may claim travel expenses, but ensure you keep detailed logs.
• Business expenses: If you are self-employed or a provisional taxpayer, claim all legitimate business expenses.

Always keep receipts, invoices, and statements to substantiate your claims.

3. Use SARS Auto-Assessment to Your Advantage

In 2025, SARS continues to expand its auto-assessment system for taxpayers with straightforward tax affairs. If you qualify, SARS will pre-fill your tax return using third-party data such as your IRP5, medical aid, and retirement fund contributions. If the auto-assessment shows a refund, SARS will typically pay it within 72 hours after you accept the assessment.

To benefit:

• Ensure your personal and banking details are up to date on SARS eFiling or the MobiApp.
• Review the auto-assessment carefully to confirm all income and deductions are correctly captured.
• If you disagree with the auto-assessment, you can amend and submit a manual return before the deadline.

ALSO READ: 7 Mistakes That Can Get Your SARS Tax Return Audited in 2025

4. Submit Your Tax Return Early

The 2025 tax season opens on 7 July and closes on 20 October for most individual taxpayers. Filing early reduces stress and allows time to correct any errors or respond to SARS queries. Early filers often receive refunds faster.

5. Claim All Eligible Tax Credits and Rebates

Tax credits and rebates directly reduce the tax payable and can boost your refund:

• Primary rebate: Applies to all taxpayers.
• Secondary and tertiary rebates: Available for taxpayers aged 65 and older, and those over 75, respectively.
• Medical tax credits: Based on the number of dependents on your medical scheme.

6. Avoid Common Mistakes That Delay Refunds

• Submit complete and accurate information.
• Update SARS with any changes to your banking details to avoid refund delays.
• Respond promptly to SARS requests for additional information.
• Beware of scams; SARS will never request banking details via email or SMS.

7. Consider Professional Tax Advice

If your tax affairs are complex, consulting a registered tax practitioner can help you identify additional deductions and ensure compliance. Many practitioners use SARS’ online tools and calculators to optimise refunds.

Key SARS Tax Dates for 2025

Maximising your SARS refund requires preparation, accurate record-keeping, and understanding of the tax system. Use SARS’ online tools, keep your details updated, and file early to take advantage of auto-assessment benefits. With these hacks, you can confidently navigate the 2025 tax season and potentially increase your refund.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Readers should consult a registered financial service provider (FSP) or a qualified tax professional registered with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) before making any financial decisions or tax-related actions.