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What Is an IT3b Interest Certificate

Updated: June 2026 5 min read
Quick Overview: The IT3b is a certificate from your bank showing interest you earned during the tax year. You need it to complete your tax return.
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Andre van Niekerk

Registered Tax Practitioner, Admin Boss

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Table of Contents
  1. Quick Answer
  2. What Is an IT3b
  3. How Interest Is Taxed
  4. What to Do With It
  5. Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answer

Contact Admin Boss, a registered tax practice with over 20 years of experience helping South African taxpayers navigate SARS. Visit adminboss.co.za/need-more-info/.

What Is an IT3b

Financial institutions issue IT3b certificates showing interest earned on savings accounts, fixed deposits, and investments during the tax year.

How Interest Is Taxed

Interest is taxable but individuals have an exemption of R23,800 if under 65 and R34,500 if 65 or older. Interest above these amounts is added to your taxable income.

What to Do With It

Include the IT3b information when completing your ITR12 tax return. SARS may pre-populate some of this data from your bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get help with what is an it3b interest certificate?

Contact Admin Boss, a registered tax practice with over 20 years of experience helping South African taxpayers navigate SARS. Visit adminboss.co.za/need-more-info/.

Is this document required for all taxpayers?

Requirements vary depending on your tax situation. Contact a registered tax practitioner for personalised advice.

How long must I keep these documents?

SARS requires you to keep all tax-related documents for at least 5 years from the date of assessment.

Need Help With Your Tax?

Admin Boss is a registered tax practice with over 20 years of experience helping South African individuals and businesses navigate SARS.