Question:
I have a Sanlam RA paid up back in 1989. It is now worth approximately R90 000. I just turned 55. Can i withdraw a paid-up retirement annuity and if so what are the tax implications?
Answer:
The current rules specify that you must use two-thirds of your retirement annuity to buy an annuity, if the retirement annuity value is above R247 500. If the value is less than R247 500, you may withdraw the full amount as a lump sum. The first R500 000 of your retirement cash lump sums (in aggregate) are not taxed.