VAT Processing

SW Accountants (Pty) Ltd assists VAT-registered businesses with VAT administration, record keeping and submission of VAT returns to SARS.

VAT services

  • Preparation and submission of VAT201 returns.
  • Review of sales, purchase invoices, expenses and supporting VAT records.
  • Reconciliation of output VAT and allowable input VAT.
  • Maintenance and review of accounting records, including general ledger, debtors and creditors.
  • Assistance with VAT account queries, verification requests and supporting documents.
  • Guidance on VAT registration and ongoing compliance requirements.

VAT rate and registration thresholds

The standard rate of VAT remains 15%. From 1 April 2026, the compulsory VAT registration threshold increased from R1 million to R2.3 million in taxable supplies over a 12-month period. The voluntary registration threshold increased from R50 000 to R120 000, subject to the applicable rules and exceptions.

Businesses should monitor taxable supplies on a rolling 12-month basis and assess whether compulsory registration applies. The thresholds do not remove the need to consider the nature of the enterprise, taxable supplies, effective dates and SARS registration procedures.

VAT returns and payments

VAT vendors must submit returns and pay any amount due by the applicable deadline for their tax period. For vendors registered for eFiling, SARS generally requires submission and payment by the last business day of the month following the end of the tax period. Other payment methods may have an earlier deadline, generally the 25th. The correct due date depends on the vendor’s tax period and payment method.

Records to keep

  • Tax invoices and credit notes.
  • Sales records and proof of income received.
  • Supplier invoices and proof of business expenses.
  • Import and export documentation, where relevant.
  • Bank statements and accounting records supporting the VAT201 return.
  • Prior VAT returns, payment confirmations and SARS correspondence.

VAT reference material and official SARS resources

Disclaimer: VAT treatment depends on the nature and timing of supplies and the applicable provisions of the VAT Act. This page is a general guide only and does not replace professional advice or the current SARS requirements.

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