How to Calculate Medical Aid Tax Credits in South Africa
Learn how Section 6A and 6B medical aid tax credits work in South Africa. Calculation guide with examples for different family sizes and age groups.
Step-by-Step Guide
Determine your Section 6A credits
Section 6A provides fixed monthly credits: R364 for the main member, R364 for the first dependant, and R246 for each additional dependant. For a family of 4: R364 + R364 + R246 + R246 = R1,220 per month (R14,640 per year).
Calculate Section 6B (if applicable)
Section 6B gives additional credits for out-of-pocket medical expenses. For under 65: credit = 25% × (total medical expenses − 4 × annual Section 6A). For 65 and older: credit = 33.3% × (total medical expenses − annual Section 6A).
Add up total medical expenses
Total medical expenses include: annual medical aid contributions PLUS out-of-pocket expenses (doctor visits, prescriptions, dental, optical, hospital co-payments). Keep all receipts.
Apply the credits to your tax
Medical credits are subtracted directly from your tax liability (not from taxable income). They reduce your tax rand-for-rand. If your credits exceed your tax liability, the excess is lost — it does not create a refund beyond zero tax.
Free Tool
Medical Aid Tax Credits Calculator
Calculate your Section 6A and 6B medical aid tax credits and additional medical expenses deduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the medical aid tax credit per month?
What qualifies as an out-of-pocket medical expense?
Do medical credits work differently for over 65s?
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