Articles by Athenkosi Sawutana
Should you take out a loan during a recession?
South Africa recently entered its second recession in two years, after the economy contracted 1.4% in the fourth quarter of 2019. When the country is facing turbulent times, personal finances also get affected, and sometimes debt becomes n...
Marriage and money: Notes for couples in customary marriage
Many people in customary marriages don’t know that their marriage is in community of property by default – meaning they have an equal share in their estate. This includes their debt and assets. That leads them to make many mistakes...
Travel insurance can rescue you when stranded in another country
Before travelling abroad, it’s always advisable that you purchase travel insurance. This insurance helps in case an unfortunate incident occurs. It covers not only your medical expenses when you get sick, but also the cost of transportati...
Are you tying the knot? This is how your tax will be impacted
In the rush to say “I do” to the love of your life, you might’ve forgotten about the tax implications of your union. Life is simpler when you’re single but when you get married, things become a bit more complicated.
What impact does compound interest have on your savings and debt?
Interest plays a big role in your savings and debt. It determines how much you’ll receive for keeping your money in the bank and it also determines how much you’re going to pay your creditors. But what power does compound interest ...
Times are tough, but keep your debt under control
While the whole world is going through a rough patch, you may also be feeling the pinch. With the country in crisis, it may be difficult to keep up with your debt instalments. However, abandoning your debt obligations is not the solution.
Travel ban – how to claim for the loss incurred
As with the recent Covid-19 pandemic, governments sometimes issue travel bans to prevent people from travelling to other countries. This becomes even more complicated if you’ve already planned and paid for your trip. How do you claim for ...
7 Factors to consider when reading your loan agreement
Many people do not properly read their loan agreements. They just sign on the dotted line without realising that they could be signing their lives away. It’s important to review your loan agreement before and after taking out your loan to av...
Is it wise to start your business with your RA?
A retirement annuity (RA) is meant to help you save money to assist you during your retirement. RAs aren’t accessible until you reach the age of 55, or unless you move to another country, or are unable to work because of disability. ...
Retirement Annuity or TFSA – the best vehicle to save for your retirement
While you may be thinking about saving for your retirement, it can be difficult to decide which savings vehicle to choose. Some people are happy putting their money in their tax-free savings account (TFSA) while others lock it in a retirement an...
What happens to your credit score when you dispute it?
There are times when you might doubt the accuracy of your credit score. But can you call the credit bureau and lodge a dispute?
3 changes from the budget that will make you smile
When Finance Minister Tito Mboweni delivered the 2020 budget speech on Wednesday, it was a welcome surprise that value-added tax wasn’t increased.