Woolworths Triumphs Over SARS in VAT Showdown – Supreme Court Clarifies Input VAT Rules Amid SARS’ Narrow Interpretation

In a significant win for taxpayers on the South African Revenue Service’s (SARS) “narrow” approach to the ability to claim input Value-Added Tax (VAT), the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) recently ruled in favour of Woolworths Holdings (Woolworths), the group holding company, affirming its right to claim over R8 million in input VAT.

Everyday Online Subscriptions and Shopping Can Push South Africans Over Their Offshore Spending Limit

For South African residents and expatriates living abroad, reaching the R1 million annual limit of offshore spending allowed under exchange control regulations, can happen far more quickly than expected. This can soon land them in hot water with the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) who closely monitors funds flowing out of South Africa.

SARS Sharpens Scrutiny of Expatriate SA Tax Residents

South African expatriates living and working abroad are firmly in the Tax Man’s sights. Recent enhancements clearly indicate the South African Revenue Service (SARS) is increasing its focus on the importance of expatriates legally confirming the basis on which they cease their tax residency status in South Africa to benefit from a reduced income tax liability as non-resident taxpayers.

Remote Work, Global Employer: Can Salaried Employees Still Claim Home Office Expenses in South Africa?

As the 2025 tax filing season approaches, many South Africans working from home are asking what home office expenses they can claim as tax deductible items, and how to do it correctly. This question is especially relevant for the growing number of South African employees working remotely for global companies who are increasingly turning to tax practitioners for guidance.

Returning Expats: SARS Record-Keeping Rules Explained

Coming Home? SARS Tightens Record-Keeping for Returning Expats

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced enhancements to its record-keeping of taxpayers’ tax residency status this coming tax filing season, taking direct aim at returning South African expatriates.