"High" and "dry" on the Taxman

Our Government is often criticised for imposing high taxes. But they are to be commended in providing tax relief to those in need.

Much has been written of late about the ability of taxpayers to deduct all their medical expenses where they or a family member suffers from a mental illness.

What may not be known by many taxpayers is that the South African Tax Legislation provides assistance where the taxpayer or a member of the taxpayers family is a drug addict or an alcoholic.

Unfortunately, in today's times drug addiction and alcoholism is quite prevalent and there are several thousand people who suffer from these and other similar disorders. Treating these disorders can be extremely costly with sufferers having to spend weeks (or months, or even years) in hospital to "dry" out.

To the extent that medical schemes do not cover the full cost of the hospitalisation, taxpayers may at least be able to deduct the cost for taxpayers. In addition, they may also be able to deduct medical costs of the entire family and all medical aid contributions.

Whether or not taxpayers, or sufferers, will qualify for tax benefits will depend on their own precise facts and circumstances. Specialist tax advice is recommended in order to ensure that the most optimum tax result is obtained.

Let's hope that with the assistance of a tax incentive more sufferers are able to become "dry".

Written by Eugene Bendel