Claim your Emotional Tax Return
Through research conducted by Xero with small businesses across South Africa, the Emotional Tax Return reveals the hidden mental load of running a business. By understanding everything that holds you back, we can help you find the best way forward.

The tax that costs more than money
Through our deep dive into the data, we found that while 95% of owners make deep sacrifices for their business, 60% of you still say it’s worth it. Xero helps lighten your daily load with tools that turn a heavy mental burden into a path that feels possible again.
Download Emotional Tax report
Reclaim the ‘me-time’ you’ve sacrificed
53% of owners sacrifice personal wellbeing for work. But you shouldn't have to trade your health for your business. Xero streamlines your finances so you can get back to the things that help you breathe, from family to a long-overdue break.
See how Xero gives you time back
Turn late nights into quiet nights
When stress peaks, 50% of South African business owners cope by overworking. This leads to late nights that belong to your family. Xero automates the repetitive admin, like bank reconciliation and invoicing, helping you reclaim your evenings.
Explore Xero’s automation tools
Lessen the load with expert support
Small business owners with an advisor spend 4 hours less per week feeling stressed. Xero makes it simple to share your data with your accountant, giving you a trusted partner to help carry the load. Move from feeling isolated to feeling in control with expert support by your side.
Find a Xero advisor today
We’re giving back what you can’t claim
You cannot claim a missed date night or time with the kids on a tax return. We want to help you get those special moments back.
Share your "Emotional Tax" story with us on social media
Tell us what you have lost due to business stress. We can help you reclaim that missed me-time or family getaway.
Share your story on social
Switching is simple
24/7 support makes it easy to partner with Xero. Whether you’re moving from spreadsheets or another software platform, we’ll help you get up and running quickly, so you can focus on the parts of your business you actually love.
Get sorted for end of financial year
Start using Xero for free
Access Xero features for 30 days, then decide which plan best suits your business.