With convenient technology and systems such as e-filing, the days of cumbersome and complicated tax return filings are over. Still, there are ways to ensure it's a totally stress-free experience.

The tax season for individuals has been open officially since 15 July and will run until 24 October for individual or non-provisional taxpayers, while provisional taxpayers will have until 20 January 2025 to submit their returns.

Here are some tips to help you keep your tax affairs in tip-top shape:

Check prepopulated information

If you are using e-filing, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) usually prepopulates your return with information from your employer, medical scheme and investment providers. Be sure to cross-check the information on the return with the tax certificates issued to you. If any information has been incorrectly captured, ask your employer or the relevant financial institution to update it so that it reflects correctly on e-filing before you file your return.

Use the calculate tool

SARS conveniently provides a calculate tool that you can use to check your return before you submit it. If you are expecting a bigger refund or suddenly owe a large amount, you can still go back and review your documents to make sure you are submitting the correct figures. It also avoids getting nasty surprises at a later stage.

Age of your supporting documents

Generally, you need to keep your supporting documents...