Over 65? How medical expenses could boost your SARS Tax Refund

Many South Africans over 65, either earning a salary or pension, assume that their annual tax affairs are straightforward. However, if you spent money on medical expenses that your medical aid didn't fully cover, you could be leaving a substantial refund on the table.

Let us help you: Our tax specialists are available on WhatsApp (0820736069) to help you get your bigger tax refund.

The hidden advantage of Section 6B for those over 65

Under Section 6B of the Income Tax Act, South African taxpayers can claim an Additional Medical Expenses Tax Credit for qualifying out-of-pocket healthcare costs.

While this credit exists for everyone, the rules change significantly - and in your favor - once you turn 65:

• No 7.5% income threshold: Taxpayers under 65 only qualify for additional credits after their out-of-pocket medical bills exceed 7.5% of their taxable income. For taxpayers aged 65 and older, this threshold drops to 0%.
  
• Direct credit benefits: If you are 65+, you receive a 33.3% tax credit directly against your tax liability on qualifying out-of-pocket medical expenses.
  
• Beyond base premiums: While monthly medical aid contributions yield a standard monthly tax credit (Section 6A), Section 6B covers the everyday expenses your scheme rejected or only partially paid.
  

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What medical expenses can you claim?

You can claim a wide variety of medical costs paid out of your own pocket during the tax year, provided you hold valid invoices and statements. Common examples (subject to change by SARS) include:

• Dental work: Fillings, crowns, dentures, and dental surgeries.
• Optical expenses: Eye tests, prescription glasses, and contact lenses.
• Specialists: Consultations with specialists, general practitioners, and physiotherapists.
• Prescribed medication: Medicines prescribed by a registered healthcare professional that were paid for out of pocket.

Our Registered Tax Practitioner can take the hassle away and handle your filing - contact us today on WhatsApp (0820736069).

Why SARS auto-assessments miss these credits

During tax season, SARS auto-assessments rely strictly on data reported directly by third parties like your medical scheme, employer, or pension fund.
Because your personal out-of-pocket receipts and doctor invoices live in your own records, SARS has no automated way of knowing about them. If you simply accept an auto-assessment without reviewing it, you risk waiving your right to these extra medical credits.

Ready to see if SARS owes you a bigger refund? Complete TaxClaw's 5-minute questionnaire today to get your potential tax refund increase.