June is one of the most important months in the individual tax calendar, says the writer.

WITH the 2026 individual tax season expected to open next month, many South Africans are beginning to prepare for the annual submission of their personal income tax returns.

For some taxpayers, the process may appear relatively straightforward – wait for an auto-assessment, check the outcome, and hopefully receive a refund. However, individual tax compliance has become increasingly detailed and data-driven over the past few years, with Sars continuing to modernise its systems and enhance the efficiency of the filing process.

June is therefore one of the most important months in the individual tax calendar. It provides taxpayers with an opportunity to review their personal tax affairs before filing season officially opens and before the submission period becomes busier.

One of the most important developments in recent years has been the increased use of Sars auto-assessments. The auto-assessment system has simplified the filing process for many taxpayers.