Free calculator

What does my medical aid
save me in tax?

Medical aid doesn't give you a deduction — it gives you a credit, which comes straight off your tax bill. Here's what yours is worth.

Your details

Your credit

Medical scheme fees creditR8 736
Extra credit for high medical costsR0
Total taken off your taxR8 736
Tax without medicalR69 272
Tax with medicalR60 536
The scheme fees credit is a fixed amount: R364 a month for you, the same for your first dependant, and R246 a month for each one after that.

The part most people miss

If you're under 65, the extra credit only kicks in once your out-of-pocket costs plus excess contributions go past 7.5% of your income. That's why a big hospital year, a birth, or ongoing chronic medication can suddenly turn into a refund — but only if you keep the receipts and your medical aid tax certificate.

At 65 and older the rules are far more generous: a third of everything, with no threshold.

Common questions

How much is the medical tax credit per month?

The section 6A credit is a fixed monthly amount for the main member, the same for the first dependant, and a smaller amount for each additional dependant. The calculator applies the current SARS rates automatically.

Can I claim medical expenses I paid myself?

Yes, through the additional medical expenses credit (section 6B). Under 65 you only benefit on the portion above 7.5% of your taxable income; at 65 and over the rules are far more generous.

Do I get medical credits if my employer pays my medical aid?

Yes — the credit belongs to the main member on the policy, even where the employer contributes, though the contribution is a taxable fringe benefit.

What proof does SARS want?

Your medical scheme tax certificate and receipts or statements for out-of-pocket costs. Keep them for five years.

Other free tools

Want a real person to handle it?

AfriTax members get a registered tax practitioner who files their return, checks every deduction and deals with SARS on their behalf — from R89/month.

These tools give an estimate using the current SARS tax tables. Your actual assessment depends on your full circumstances — always confirm with a registered practitioner.