Owing SARS money can feel like a never-ending burden, interest piles up, penalties grow, and enforcement looms. But for a limited time, taxpayers have a chance to hit reset. Through the SARS’s Expedited Tax-Debt Compromise Process, qualifying taxpayers may be able to settle their debt for less than the full amount, clear their tax record, and move forward with peace of mind.

Big tax changes are on the horizon, and they could hit schools, side hustles, and retirees the hardest. CIBA has stepped in to raise concerns about the real-world impact of these proposals, warning that they could drive up school fees, punish entrepreneurs, schools, and retirees. What is CIBA’s goal? Keep tax fair, simple, and supportive of the people who keep the economy moving.

Think SARS got it wrong? Here’s how to fight back legally and effectively. This article walks you through the full SARS dispute resolution process, from filing objections and appeals to navigating ADR, the Tax Board, and Tax Court. It's tailored for professionals who need to protect their clients (and their fees) when assessments go sideways.

Think you’ve nailed your VAT strategy? Think again. From exempt supplies to mixed-income traps, recent court battles involving African Bank and Capitec show just how costly VAT missteps can be. In this article we look at exempt and vatable supplies, when you need to register for VAT, and what to do if your business earns both types of income. Get your VAT method right and save money and trouble with SARS!

Can business accountants help with a deceased estate? You need to tread carefully. The law says only certain professionals can legally administer an estate, and getting it wrong could cost you more than just your reputation. In this article we break down the must-know steps, deadlines, and legal limits every accountant needs to navigate estate administration safely and smartly. Don’t just offer advice, know exactly where the line is, and stand out by staying compliant.

Think SARS holds all the power? Think again. You have a set of rights that protect you from overreach, delays, and unfair treatment, and they’re backed by the law. From getting the information you’re entitled to, to stopping drawn-out audits in their tracks, the Office of the Tax Ombud is your free, independent ally. This guide unpacks your 10 key rights, your responsibilities, and how to use them to save time, money, and stress.

Think CGT is just for the ultra-wealthy? Think again.
Whether you’re flipping shares, selling a second home, or advising clients on big asset moves, Capital Gains Tax can creep up and bite, unless you know the rules. In this article we bread down what counts, who pays what, and how smart accountants turn tax traps into savings. Real examples, real numbers, and a few golden exemptions you don't want to miss.

Think you’re not a provisional taxpayer? Think again. Your tax status isn’t fixed and missing a change could land you with unexpected admin penalties. This article explains who qualifies, who doesn’t, what income counts, and how to avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re an individual taxpayer or a practitioner, checking your status twice a year could save you from serious SARS trouble.

This tax season, SARS is hitting “auto” on millions of returns, but that doesn’t mean practitioners can sit back. From 7 July, auto assessments will land in client inboxes, and while they promise speed and simplicity, they can just as easily conceal costly errors. If you're not reviewing every auto assessment with a fine-tooth comb, your clients, and your reputation, could be at risk. Here's what you need to know to stay ahead, protect your clients, and turn compliance into opportunity.

Think you know what you can claim for wear-and-tear? Think again. From small tools under R7,000 to second-hand vehicles and home-office equipment, SARS has clear. but often misunderstood, rules on what qualifies, how to calculate the deduction, and when you might have to pay it back. This article breaks down the essentials of Section 11(e), shows you how to use SARS’s write-off table, and explains the hidden risks of recoupments when assets are sold. Whether you're advising clients or managing your own tax affairs, this is a must-read.

Ever feel like the tax system keeps tripping up? You’re not alone, and that’s where the Tax Ombud steps in. This article takes a closer look at how the OTO tackles systemic SARS issues that affect everyday taxpayers. If you're a tax practitioner or taxpayer who's spotted the same problems popping up again and again, here's how you can help be part of the fix.

With the May 2025 Budget it is clear that SARS needs to step up, and your clients need to be ready. With a record revenue target and hundreds of new hires focused on debt collection, Budget 2025/26 marks a serious ramp-up in enforcement. From AI-powered audits to crackdowns on the illicit economy, here’s what accountants need to know to stay ahead of the compliance curve.

Think moving overseas means you’ve left the South African tax net behind? Not so fast. From Dubai to London, South Africans working abroad need to know that unless you’ve formally broken tax ties with SARS, you could still owe tax back home. In this article we look at what changed in 2020, what counts as tax residency, and why just earning in a tax-free country doesn’t mean SARS isn’t watching.

Ever had a client stuck paying VAT on a sale they’ll never collect? It’s a frustrating reality — but there’s a way to fix it. This article walks you through the simple, practical steps to claim back VAT on bad debts, with real-world examples, tips on handling partial write-offs, and what to do when the VAT rate changes. If your clients are losing out on cash and tax, here’s how you can help turn the tables.

Thinking about moving overseas or helping a client who is? In this article, we look at how tax residency works, what it really takes to stop being taxed in SA, and how to avoid getting caught out with surprise costs. Whether it’s for remote work, retirement, or a fresh start abroad, this practical guide will help you support your clients with confidence.

Ever wondered why SARS doesn’t let you deduct all the interest you’ve paid on a loan in one go? You’re not alone — it’s a common frustration for many taxpayers. This article breaks it all down in a simple, easy-to-understand way. We explain why SARS spreads your interest deduction over the life of the loan (thanks to something called Section 24J), what “deemed interest” really means, and how it’s all tied to the effective interest rate. With practical examples and a fun, relatable tone, you'll finally make sense of why your tax deduction isn’t as big as you expected — and why it’s not all bad news in the long run.

Thinking of going solar or helping clients lighten their tax load? From rooftop panels at home to diesel-powered generators on the farm, there are smart ways to claim real tax relief. Whether your clients are individuals or business owners, this article breaks down the solar and energy incentives—what's allowed, what’s not, and how to get it right. If you want to make sure your clients don’t miss out on legitimate savings or fall foul to SARS, this is a must-read.

VAT is going up in South Africa from 1 May 2025, and it affects more than just prices at the till. In this article, we break down what the VAT increase means for accountants and their clients, using simple examples like construction projects, retail pricing, property deals, and VAT returns. Whether you're advising small businesses or handling your own VAT submissions, this guide will help you apply the correct rate, avoid penalties, and stay one step ahead of the changes.

Many taxpayers mistakenly believe they can delay their provisional tax payments until the third "top-up" payment deadline—only to face unexpected penalties and interest charges. In this article, we break down the real purpose of the third provisional tax payment, clarifying why it is meant for fine-tuning rather than covering missed obligations. Read about who qualifies as a provisional taxpayer, key payment deadlines, and the consequences of underestimating taxable income. If you're unsure about how to manage your provisional tax correctly and avoid costly mistakes, this guide will provide the clarity you need.

Trusts can be a fantastic tool for protecting assets, planning for the future, and even saving on tax—but only if they’re managed correctly. Many people assume that trusts automatically reduce tax, but without proper planning, they can actually create huge tax burdens. In this article, we explain the key tax rules with practical examples to help you avoid common mistakes. If you’ve ever wondered whether a trust is the right choice for your clients or how to legally minimise tax, this article will give you the answers.