If You’re Earning from Social Media, You Need to Pay Tax
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Do you get paid to post on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube? Even if you’re getting free clothes, flights, or gifts, SARS says it still counts as income, and you need to declare it.
Influencers Must Pay Tax
SARS has now officially added “social influencers” to its list of taxpayers. This means if you’re making money (or getting freebies) through your social media presence, you have a legal responsibility to pay tax on it.
SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter says they’re not trying to punish anyone — they just want to help people stay on the right side of the law:
“SARS is more than willing to assist honest taxpayers to comply with their tax obligations. I am reminding social influencers to uphold their end of the bargain.”
SARS is planning to share videos, webinars, and other helpful resources to make it easier for influencers to understand what they need to do. They want to educate, not scare people.
Key Message
👉 If you earn anything from brand deals, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing — whether it’s money, products, or services — you must declare it and pay tax.
