An Olive Branch in the Kingdom of Tax: Triumph Over Trust Debts
In the sprawling kingdom of South African finance, trusts and their advisors navigate mist-shrouded paths of compliance, wary of penalties, interest charges, and mounting tax debts. Many brave trustees have attempted to traverse these treacherous paths, only to stumble over complex rules, shifting governance standards, and the heavy weight of outstanding obligations.
A December Reminder from SARS – and a Clear Message on Trust Compliance
The South African Revenue Service (SARS)’ proposed Value-Added Tax (VAT) Modernisation Project is geared to combat challenges faced by traders, businesses, and SARS, including compliance inefficiencies, the risk of errors, and tax evasion. Phase 1 will entail inserting key definitions into the VAT Act, including “e-credit note”, “e-debit note” and “interoperability framework”.
SARS and IDAC Team-Up: A Landmark Conviction — and a Message to Fraudsters Everywhere
In a hard-hitting joint media statement released on 9 December 2025, the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), in collaboration with SARS, and other law-enforcement agencies, announced a significant legal victory: a six-year direct prison sentence (with two years suspended) for Tshepo Khoza — director of Grey Apple Trading Enterprise (Pty) Ltd — on multiple counts […]
SARS’ New Guidance Sends Warning to Young South Africans Making Use of Trusts
On 26 November 2025, South African Revenue Service (SARS) released a draft Interpretation Note on section 7C of the Income Tax Act, No. 58 of 1962, the anti-avoidance provision aimed at interest free or low interest loans used to fund trusts. The tax authority’s message is clear: there is simply no such thing as an […]
Navigating the Maze: Hurdles Foreign Individuals Face in Securing a South African Tax Number
South African law requires any person who becomes liable for tax, whether it be income tax, VAT or Capital Gains Tax, to register as a taxpayer with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and obtain a tax number. This unique identifier, issued by SARS, tracks and manages your tax obligations and compliance.