Raising a neurodivergent child often comes with additional emotional, medical, and educational costs. What many parents don’t realise is that SARS allows you to claim back certain expenses related to your child’s learning difficulty — helping to ease the financial pressure that comes with assessments, therapy, and specialised support.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you understand how the process works and what you need in order to qualify.
1. Get a Formal Diagnosis
To begin, you’ll need a formal diagnosis from a registered medical practitioner, such as an educational psychologist, occupational therapist, paediatrician, or psychiatrist (depending on the nature of the difficulty).
This diagnosis is the foundation for your tax claim, as SARS requires official confirmation of your child’s condition before recognising it as a qualifying disability or impairment for tax purposes.
2. Download and Complete the SARS ITR-DD Form
Next, visit the SARS website and download the ITR-DD form.
This form acts as the official declaration of the disability or learning impairment and must be completed by a recognised medical professional.
It confirms:
- The type of learning difficulty
- The severity
- Whether the condition has a lasting impact on your child’s daily functioning
Without this document, SARS cannot process your claim.
3. Keep Detailed Records of All Qualifying Expenses
SARS requires proof of any expenses you wish to claim, so it’s important to keep all receipts, invoices, and statements.
Qualifying expenses may include:
- Therapy sessions (speech therapy, OT, psychology, specialised tutoring)
- Diagnostic and follow-up assessments
- Medical consultations
- Prescription medication
- Special equipment (e.g., prescription glasses, assistive learning tools)
- Special needs schooling or remedial education
- Transport costs directly related to medical visits (in certain cases)
The more organised and thorough your record-keeping, the smoother your claim process will be.
4. Submit Your Tax Return With All Supporting Documents
When you complete your tax return, ensure that all supporting documents are uploaded and that your ITR-DD form has been evaluated and accepted by SARS.
You may qualify for:
- Additional Medical Expenses Tax Credit
- Deductions related to disability or impairment support
This can significantly reduce your tax burden, especially if your child requires several interventions throughout the year.
5. Keep Your Documents for at Least Five Years
SARS may request verification of your claims at any time, so it’s essential to store all related documents for a minimum of five years.
This includes:
- Medical reports
- Completed ITR-DD form
- Receipts and invoices
- Proof of payments
- Schooling and therapy documentation
Having organised records ensures you’re fully prepared should SARS request additional information.
Final Thoughts
Interventions for children with learning difficulties or special needs can be incredibly expensive, and many families feel the financial strain. Understanding your tax benefits can make a real difference – sometimes even covering a portion of therapies or specialised schooling.
Claiming back what you’re entitled to means more resources for your child’s growth, support, and development. And when it comes to raising a neurodivergent child, every little bit truly helps.
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