Is a logbook really necessary?
Or can SARS use code 3702 to audit potential business kilometres travelled? I have often wondered whether SARS officials thoroughly review the submitted logbooks when taxpayers claim for travel expenses incurred as a result of business travel, or are these requested just to tick a box? This uncertainty has recently been rresolved—SARS audits the logbooks […]
Simplify your payroll with automation
Managing payroll in South Africa can be challenging, with strict tax regulations and employee data management. However, with the right tools, you can make payroll more efficient and less stressful. Why choose automation? Automated, cloud-based payroll systems offer several advantages: Efficiency and accuracy: Automation reduces manual calculations and data entry errors. It streamlines tasks like calculating […]
The tax treatment of relocation expenses
Transferring staff? There are tax implications for them … and for you! If your business has branches in different locations, one of the best ways of offering key staff opportunities for career growth is to allow them to relocate. Relocating an existing staff member who has come to know and understand your systems, procedures, and […]
Travel claims, but no allowance?
For commission-earners and the self-employed, the rules are slightly different—but travel costs can be claimed. The mistake that I make when writing articles about travel allowances is that I tend to forget that not all of us are ‘wage slaves’. Indeed, there are many taxpayers for whom the saying, “If a man will not work, […]
To Claim or Not to Claim—VAT, That Is…
Some vehicles you cannot claim VAT on, some you can—and knowing the difference can save you a lot of money. When can you claim input VAT on a vehicle? Most businesses that are registered for VAT will be aware that you generally cannot claim input VAT on the purchase of a ‘motor car’ as defined […]
What to Do if You Owe SARS Money
Owing money to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) can be stressful, but don’t panic. By understanding your options and taking prompt action, you can resolve the issue and minimise the impact. This guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate a tax debt situation. The importance of addressing tax debt Take […]
Build Your Emergency Safety Net Fund Today
Ask any trapeze artist, and they’ll tell you that a safety net is a non-negotiable part of flying high. While few of us are circus performers, an emergency savings fund is still one of the most important requirements for our peace of mind and financial stability. Life has a way of throwing curveballs. Whether it’s […]
Understanding the Foreign Services Income Exemption: The Requirement for Service Rendering
Many articles have been written about the application of the foreign income exemption provided for under Section 10(1)(o)(ii) of the Income Tax Act. This section provides for an exemption from South African tax from specific employment income earned while rendering services outside South Africa. The section limits such income qualifying for the exemption to any […]
Why Should You Hire an Accountant?
When business owners work on growing their companies, budget constraints often push them towards a do-it-yourself approach to managing their finances. Many see hiring a professional for bookkeeping or accounting as an unnecessary expense. However, this viewpoint fails to recognise the tangible advantages that an accountant can offer. It’s important to reframe this decision, not […]
Maximising wealth, minimising tax
A comparative look at retirement annuities versus tax-free savings accounts. When it comes to personal finance, every individual has different needs, dreams and financial goals, as well as different pathways to achieving those objectives. One of the most common long-term ambitions shared by many South Africans is to retire comfortably—to live confidently, knowing that there […]