National Treasury’s Tax Amendment Bills Puts “Bona Fide Inadvertent Error” on the Chopping Block
For years, taxpayers and their advisors have relied on a small phrase in the Tax Administration Act (TAA) as a defence against understatement penalties, which can run up to 200 percent of the shortfall between what taxpayers declared and the revised assessment. But that lifeline is now on the chopping block.
Navigating the Tides of Taxation: Increased Scrutiny on Seafarer Exemptions
South African seafarers, whose careers on cruise ships, geographical vessels or fishing vessels often take them across international waters, are currently experiencing a significant shift in how the South African Revenue Service (SARS) approaches their tax obligations. What was once a relatively straightforward process is now marked by intensified audits, refined questioning, and a request […]
SARS Holds Crypto-Traders to Account per the “International Tax Standard”
For many taxpayers, especially expatriates, managing South African tax obligations from a distance can be complicated. Years may pass without any direct interaction with the South African Revenue Service (SARS), and key details like contact information, banking details, and tax number status often become outdated.
SARS’ New Segment to Target Non-Compliant Social Influencers and the Gig Economy!
Social influencers in South Africa must declare all income, including non-monetary compensation, as clarified by SARS! On 5 September 2025, SARS issued a media release stating its zero-tolerance position when it comes to social influencers and undeclared income, but also providing clear guidance on the tax obligations of these social influencers. As digital marketing continues […]
SA Non-Tax Residency – The Rush Must Not Foreshadow Precision
With the 2025 annual tax filing season deadline fast approaching, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has quickly tightened its verification processes for taxpayers requesting to update their tax residency status to that of non-resident on a more urgent basis than they would have liked.