Why Year‑End Planning Matters
Planning ahead for the end of your financial year is more than an administrative exercise. It ensures your business remains compliant with regulations, avoids penalties and late‑filing fees, and provides clarity on cash‑flow needs. Marwick & Company has spent more than 50 years delivering personalised auditing, accounting and financial management services. Our long‑standing commitment to understanding each client’s financial objectives underscores the value of proactive planning.
Key Tax Deadlines for 2025/26
Missing a filing or payment deadline can result in interest and penalties. Important upcoming dates for South African businesses include:
- 31 August 2025: First provisional tax submission deadline for the 2025/26 tax year (Provisional Tax Deadline: Everything You Need to Know …).
- 28 February 2026: Second provisional tax submission deadline (Provisional Tax Deadline: Everything You Need to Know …).
- 30 September 2026: Optional top‑up payment to ensure your provisional tax is fully settled (Provisional Tax Deadline: Everything You Need to Know …).
- 20 October 2025: Final filing deadline for non‑provisional taxpayers for the 2025 tax year (according to SARS’ filing season guidance). Provisional taxpayers and trusts typically have until 19 January 2026 to submit their returns (SARS guidance for the 2025 season).
Mark these dates in your calendar and ensure the supporting documentation is ready well in advance.
Practical Year‑End Planning Tips
Thoughtful preparation can streamline the year‑end process and position your business for future growth. Consider the following actions:
- Keep accurate records – Maintain an organised trail of invoices, receipts and bank statements. This makes it easier to reconcile accounts and substantiate deductions.
- Reassess your tax strategy – An accountant’s year‑end tips include reinvesting retirement annuity tax refunds, using Employment Tax Incentives (ETI) and taking advantage of tax‑free savings accounts (An accountant’s top tips for Tax Year-End | Sage Advice South …). Review your deductions and exemptions to optimise your tax liability.
- Check provisional payments – Review your estimated taxable income to ensure your first and second provisional tax payments are accurate. Under‑estimating can lead to penalties, while over‑estimating can strain cash flow.
- Review cash‑flow and budgets – A year‑end review of budgets and cash‑flow projections can reveal funding needs or surplus capital that may be reinvested in the business.
- Schedule audits and reviews – Early engagement with auditors or reviewers helps identify issues before final statements are due. It also provides management with time to implement recommendations.
How Marwick & Company Can Help
Marwick & Company’s experienced team offers a full suite of services designed to support every stage of your business journey. Their focus on professional standards and personalised service ensures you receive guidance tailored to your needs.
Auditing & Assurance
Marwick provides audit and independent review services for annual financial statements and offers value‑added advice on internal controls to improve business efficiencies. Having a qualified audit team review your accounts strengthens credibility with stakeholders and lenders.
Tax & Compliance
The firm’s tax specialists handle a variety of tax queries, manage provisional and annual tax returns, and liaise with SARS on your behalf. We provide practical assistance and direct advice to help you meet filing deadlines and optimise your tax position.
Secretarial & Estate Services
Marwick’s secretarial team administers company formations, amendments and deregistrations, maintains statutory registers and minute books, and manages statutory returns. They also assist with wills and the administration of deceased estates, giving you peace of mind about succession planning.
Financial Management & Special Assignments
Marwick’s financial management services provide in-depth advice on cash flow, budgeting, reporting and financial management to give your business the insight it needs to succeed. The firm also undertakes special assignments, including due diligence reviews, internal audits, special investigations, and drafting annual financial statements. Whether you require assistance with complex transactions or need independent assurance on specific aspects of your business, Marwick’s experienced professionals can help.
Conclusion
By understanding your key tax deadlines and planning early for year‑end, you can avoid surprises and set your business up for a successful next financial year. Marwick & Company’s team of chartered accountants, tax specialists and advisers are ready to provide personalised, proactive support. Contact us today to discuss your year‑end planning needs and explore how our auditing, tax, secretarial and advisory services can help your business thrive.