When do I need to register for VAT in South Africa?

You must register for VAT when your taxable turnover exceeds or is expected to exceed R1 million in any 12-month period. You can also voluntarily register if your turnover is above R50,000 annually. Registration must be done within 21 business days of exceeding the threshold.

What's the difference between PAYE, UIF, and SDL?

PAYE (Pay As You Earn) is income tax deducted from employee salaries. UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) provides benefits to unemployed workers, funded by 2% contributions (1% employee, 1% employer). SDL (Skills Development Levy) is 1% of payroll to fund skills development, paid entirely by employers on payrolls exceeding R500,000 annually.

How often do I need to submit VAT returns?

Most businesses submit VAT returns every two months (bi-monthly). However, if your annual turnover exceeds R30 million, you must submit monthly returns. Returns are due by the 25th of the month following the VAT period, with payment due by the 7th of the second month following the period.

What happens if I don't comply with PAYE obligations?

Non-compliance with PAYE can result in penalties up to 10% of tax due, interest charges, and potential criminal liability. SARS can also hold directors personally liable for company PAYE debts. Proper compliance protects both your business and personal assets.

Can I claim VAT on business expenses before registering for VAT?

You can claim VAT on goods and services acquired up to 6 months before your VAT registration date, provided you still own the goods or the services relate to your business. This can result in significant refunds for new businesses with qualifying pre-registration expenses.

What records do I need to maintain for multi-tax compliance?

You need comprehensive records including VAT invoices, PAYE certificates, payroll records, UIF returns, SDL submissions, bank statements, and supporting documentation. Records must be kept for 5 years and be readily available for SARS audits.

Workshop 06: Tax Fundamentals II - Master VAT, PAYE, UIF & SDL

Why These Taxes Matter More Than You Think

These aren't "other" taxes—they're core business obligations that can make or break your cash flow and compliance record. Warren Buffett was right: "Risk comes from not knowing what you're doing." Don't let tax ignorance become your biggest business risk.

The reality: SARS penalties aren't just one-off costs—they compound monthly and can quickly exceed your original tax liability. Not planning for these obligations can create sudden cash crunches that threaten business survival.

The Four Tax Pillars Every Growing Business Must Master

VAT (Value-Added Tax)

When registration becomes mandatory (R1 million turnover), voluntary registration benefits (R50,000+ turnover), current 15% VAT rate, and input vs output VAT calculations

PAYE (Pay-As-You-Earn)

Registration within 21 business days when hiring employees liable for tax, calculating employee tax deductions, and monthly filing obligations

UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund)

When UIF registration is required (24+ hours/month employees), 2% total contributions (1% employee + 1% employer), and filing requirements

SDL (Skills Development Levy)

R500,000 annual payroll threshold, 1% levy calculation, and rebate opportunities for employee skills development

The Hidden Costs of Tax Ignorance

Penalties That Compound

SARS penalties aren't just one-off costs—they compound monthly and can quickly exceed your original tax liability

Cash Flow Disasters

Not planning for VAT payments or employee tax obligations can create sudden cash crunches that threaten survival

Compliance Violations

Operating without proper registrations can result in retrospective assessments and interest charges going back years

Lost Business Opportunities

Many clients require VAT-registered suppliers, and not being registered can cost you valuable contracts

Registration Confusion

Understanding when registration becomes mandatory vs optional can save thousands in unnecessary obligations

Employee Protection

Proper UIF and SDL compliance protects your employees and demonstrates responsible business practices

By the end of this workshop, you'll confidently answer:

"Do I need to register for VAT, and when?"
"How does PAYE work when I hire my first employee?"
"What are UIF and SDL obligations under the UI Act and UIC Act, and how much do they cost?"
"How do I calculate and file VAT returns without making costly mistakes?"
"What happens if I miss registration deadlines or payment dates?"
"How can I turn VAT from a burden into a cash flow tool?"

What You'll Receive

Comprehensive Training Manual

Comprehensive understanding of all four tax types, their interactions, and how to manage them efficiently as your business grows.

Comprehensive Supporting Resources Included

Every participant receives access to essential SARS guides and practical tools, including the VAT 404 Guide for Vendors, PAYE Employer Guide (EMP201), comprehensive terminology guide, and tax compliance summary guides. These resources ensure you have authoritative reference materials for ongoing compliance.

Access to Mentorship & Coaching

Access to experienced tax professionals who understand SARS requirements and can guide you through complex multi-tax scenarios.

Available Formats

In-Person

Duration: 3 hours + Q&A
Includes: Follow-up coaching/mentorship session.

Investment: R3,599

Book In-Person

Live Online

Duration: 2.5 hours + Q&A
Includes: Follow-up coaching/mentorship session.

Investment: R2,799

Book Live Online

E-Learning

Duration: Self-paced
Includes: Discounted coaching/mentorship sessions

Investment: R699

Access E-Learning

Who This Workshop Is Perfect For

Growing businesses approaching VAT registration thresholds
Employers hiring their first employees and needing PAYE guidance
Business owners confused about UIF and SDL obligations

Entrepreneurs wanting to avoid costly tax compliance mistakes
Anyone juggling multiple tax obligations without a clear system
Business owners seeking to turn tax obligations into strategic advantages

Tax Fundamentals II: The Other Essential Taxes