*This content is brought to you by Brenthurst Wealth
By Aidan Freswick*
As the tax year draws to a close on 28 February, it’s time to take stock of your finances and ensure you’re making the most of available tax-saving opportunities. These small, yet strategic actions can make a significant difference to your overall financial health, reducing your tax burden while boosting your investment returns.
Here’s how you can take control of your investments before the clock runs out.
Boost your retirement savings and save on tax
Contributing to a retirement annuity (RA) is one of the smartest ways to lower your taxable income while growing your nest egg. South African taxpayers can deduct up to 27.5% of their taxable income or remuneration (whichever is higher), capped at R350,000 annually. This means you effectively get a tax rebate on the money you’re putting aside for retirement.
Another benefit? Growth within an RA is tax-free, allowing your investments to compound faster. But don’t wait—submissions for once-off RA debits close at 13:00 on 26 February, giving you limited time to take advantage.
Lock in your tax-free returns
A tax-free savings account (TFSA) offers an unparalleled opportunity to grow your wealth without worrying about tax on interest, dividends, or capital gains. With an annual contribution limit of R36,000 and a lifetime cap of R500,000, every rand invested in a TFSA works harder for you.
By topping up your TFSA before 28 February, you can maximise this year’s allowance and give your money an extra edge. Just ensure you adhere to the provider cut-off times for deposits to avoid missing out.
Don’t forget capital gains tax exemptions
If you’re planning to sell assets, remember you have an annual R40,000 capital gains tax exemption. Timing is everything here—selling strategically before the tax year ends could help you minimise your tax liability.
For those in higher tax brackets, endowments may offer a tax-efficient solution. These long-term investments cap tax on returns at 30%, making them a smart choice for individuals whose marginal tax rate exceeds this threshold.
Combine strategies for maximum benefit
For savvy investors, the best approach often involves a combination of tax-efficient strategies. Pairing RAs with TFSAs diversifies your portfolio while reducing your overall tax burden. By taking full advantage of these incentives, you’re not just saving on tax—you’re accelerating your path to financial freedom.
The clock is ticking
With the 28 February deadline fast approaching, now is the time to act. Review your financial strategy, make the necessary contributions, and take full advantage of the available tax breaks. Consult with a financial advisor to tailor these strategies to your unique goals and needs.
Being proactive today can make a lasting difference to your future. Don’t let these opportunities slip away.
* Aidan is a Registered Financial Practitioner™ and a registered member of the Financial Planning Institute of South Africa (FPI)
I obtained my National Diploma in Financial Information Systems from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in 1999 and have worked in the wealth management industry since January 2000. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience in various roles, including Portfolio Manager Assistant, Planner Assistant, and Paraplanner.
Esmarelda Isaacs-Andreas joined the Brenthurst Wealth Stellenbosch office in October 2025, taking on the dual role of Receptionist and Fiduciary Administrator.
Angelique Anderson joins our Pretoria office as an Administrative Assistant, bringing over 24 years of experience across the financial, legal, and executive support sectors, both locally and internationally. Her meticulous attention to detail, discretion, and extensive knowledge of asset finance and compliance make her an invaluable addition to our team.
Ashley joined Brenthurst Wealth in January 2025 as Office Administrative Assistant and Receptionist for the Stellenbosch Office.
Michelle joined the Brenthurst Wealth Team in 2025 as a paraplanner assisting Iniel Van Zyl and Leslie Greyling in our Fourways office.
René Heystek joined Brenthurst Wealth in November 2023, as receptionist and administrative assistant in the newly established George/Garden Route office.
Michelle Heystek has built a career in the financial services over the last two decades, after obtaining her B.Com degree in Financial Management in 2005. Once she joined Brenthurst in 2006, she continued her academic journey, obtaining her Certificate in Wealth Management from INSETA in 2007, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning from the University of the Free State. In 2008, she earned the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation.
Anelle joined Brenthurst Wealth as a Receptionist and Administrative Assistant to Brian Butchart in the Cape Town office in December 2023. She has a wealth of knowledge from working as a liaison between Financial Advisers and clients at TMA and Absa Investment Management Services (Aims) since 1998. She obtained her B. com degree from the University of Port Elizabeth in 1997.
Sanet was appointed in April 2020, joining our Cape Town team as an Executive Administration Assistant to Renee Eagar. She has been in the financial services industry since 1990. Her previous experience includes positions at Sanlam, BJM and ABSA. She spent her last 12 years working at Alexander Forbes Private Client Wealth as a Senior Wealth Management Assistant. She has received numerous accolades over the years which include but not limited to, Alexander Forbes Client Service Excellence – Silver award in 2014,2015 and 2017. Sanet has also obtained her Certificate in Wealth Management (NQF 5) in 2012 and achieved “Best Student of the Year” from Moonstone.
Maria Smit is a Certified Financial Planner® with over 10 years of experience in the financial planning industry.
