Warning to Accountants: Only Registered Tax Practitioners May Work with SARS

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If you're helping clients with tax submissions, listen up: this recent Cape Town court case shows exactly what not to do.

Faried van der Schyff claimed to be a tax practitioner. He submitted tax returns on behalf of clients. He also promised big refunds. The problem? He wasn’t registered with SARS. Now he's going to jail for three years. He was convicted of:

• Fraud

• Contravening the Tax Administration Act

• Contravening the Correctional Services Act

All because he pretended to be something he wasn’t.

Here’s what you need to know about Section 240 of the Tax Administration Act.

Who must register as a tax practitioner?

You MUST be registered with SARS and belong to a recognised controlling body (like CIBA) if:

• Give tax advice, or

• Complete and submit tax returns on behalf of others for a FEE.

Why it matters

Failing to register is a criminal offence. You could face fines or even jail time.

Don’t risk your career. Make sure you’re registered and in good standing. And if you know someone doing tax work without proper registration? Warn them. Or report them.

This is serious.

Want help registering or checking your status?