Unpacking the Budget: Taxes, Spending, and What It Means for You

In this episode of "My Money, My Lifestyle," host Maya Fisher-French engages in a deep dive into the complexities of the national budget and its implications for taxpayers with Chris Axelson, the acting head of tax and financial sector policy at National Treasury. As the government navigates the contentious landscape of tax collection, Axelson sheds light on the recent adjustments to the budget, including a shift from an ambitious VAT increase to more modest measures aimed at generating 28 billion rand in revenue.

They explore the delicate balance between raising taxes and maintaining economic growth. They discuss the implications of various tax instruments, such as personal income tax, corporate tax, and VAT, and how these decisions are made amidst pressures from both revenue needs and household impacts. Axelson explains the concept of fiscal drag and how it effectively raises personal taxes without changing rates, often leaving taxpayers unaware of the increase.
 
Listeners will gain insights into the priorities for the additional tax revenue, including funding for essential services such as education and healthcare, as well as the challenges of addressing corruption and inefficiencies within government spending. Chris also addresses the importance of tax compliance and the role of SARS in improving revenue collection.
 
Join Maya and Chris Axelson as they unpack these critical financial topics, providing listeners with a clearer understanding of how budget decisions affect their wallets and the broader economy.
 
1. Overview of the national budget and tax implications

2. The shift from VAT increase to alternative revenue measures

3. Understanding fiscal drag and its impact on personal taxes

4. Balancing tax increases with economic growth

5. Priorities for additional tax revenue allocation

6. The role of SARS in improving tax compliance

7. The complexities of government spending reviews

 This podcast is in partnership with National Treasury.