RA tax deduction rules for 2026/27
Contributions to pension, provident and retirement annuity funds are added together and deductible up to the lower of 27.5% of the greater of your remuneration or taxable income, or R430,000 a year (raised from R350,000 in Budget 2026). Anything above the limit carries over to future years and can reduce tax on your retirement lump sum.
Claiming your RA
Your fund sends an IT3(f) certificate after February. It usually prefills on eFiling. If you pay by debit order (not through payroll), you'll get the saving as a refund on assessment, so file your return even if you got an auto-assessment.
See the effect on your full return with the income tax calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum RA contribution I can deduct in 2026/27?
27.5% of your income, capped at R430,000 a year (up from R350,000 before 1 March 2026).
When should I contribute to my RA to save tax this year?
Before 28 February 2027 for the 2026/27 tax year. Many funds need the money a few days before.
Do RA contributions above the limit get lost?
No. They carry forward to the next year and can also be used against your retirement lump sum.
Last updated 2026-10-10. Sources: SARS rates of tax for individuals, medical tax credit rates, interest exemption, capital gains tax and the rate-per-kilometre schedule on sars.gov.za.