Tax
Understanding SME Tax Obligations in South Africa
A comprehensive guide for South African SMEs to understand their tax duties, including VAT, income tax, and provisional tax. Stay compliant and avoid penalties.
SBy Siphethuxolo Didiza

Navigating the South African tax landscape can be challenging for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Understanding your obligations is crucial for compliance and the financial health of your business.
Key Tax Types for SMEs:
- Value Added Tax (VAT): If your taxable supplies exceed R1 million in any 12-month period, you must register for VAT. We explain the implications and how to manage VAT returns.
- Company Income Tax (CIT): All registered companies in South Africa are liable for CIT on their taxable income. Learn about the current rates and how to prepare your ITR14.
- Provisional Tax: This is not a separate tax but a method of paying income tax in advance, based on estimated taxable income. We cover who needs to pay and when.
- Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE): If you have employees, you must deduct PAYE from their salaries and pay it over to SARS.
At Didiserv, we help SMEs demystify these obligations, ensuring timely and accurate submissions. Our tech-driven approach simplifies record-keeping and tax preparation, allowing you to focus on your core business activities.
Contact us for a consultation to ensure your business is fully compliant and to explore tax planning opportunities.