Can I register for VAT voluntarily?

Yes, you can register voluntarily if your turnover exceeds R50,000 in the past 12 months. This is beneficial if you want to claim VAT back on large startup expenses.

How often must I submit VAT returns?

Most small businesses are registered for Category B (every two months). However, if your turnover is very high or you qualify for specific sectors, you may be registered for monthly submissions.

VAT Registration Cape Town | Register for VAT

Do you qualify for VAT?

SARS is extremely strict with new applications to prevent fraud. Before we can apply, your business must meet one of the following criteria:

Mandatory Registration

You must register if your turnover (sales) has exceeded R1 Million in the past 12 months.

Voluntary Registration

You can register if you have made taxable supplies exceeding R50,000 in the past 12 months.

View Official SARS Criteria

Navigating the SARS VAT Process

VAT registration involves a strict verification process. We ensure your application is accurate and your supporting documents meet SARS' high standards to avoid delays.

Turnover Assessment

We review your invoices, bank statements, or contracts to confirm you meet the R50,000 minimum threshold.

VAT101 Application

We complete and submit the VAT101 application form via eFiling on your behalf.

Submission of Supporting Documents

SARS will call for specific proof of trading. We compile and upload these documents within the deadline.

Interview Preparation (If Required)

Occasionally, SARS requests a face-to-face interview. We prepare you with the correct file to ensure approval.

Required Documents

To prove your business is trading, SARS generally asks for:

Invoices Issued (Total > R50k)
Bank Statements (Showing deposits)
CIPC Documents (COR14.3)

Director's ID Copy (Certified)
Proof of Address (Director)
Proof of Address (Business)

Frequently Asked Questions about VAT

You must register for VAT if your business turnover (sales) exceeds R1 million in any consecutive 12-month period. You must apply within 21 days of exceeding this threshold.

Yes, you can register voluntarily if your turnover exceeds R50,000 in the past 12 months. This is often beneficial if you deal with other VAT-registered vendors or have high startup costs and want to claim input VAT back.

Most small businesses are registered for Category B (every two months). However, if your turnover is very high (>R30m) or you qualify for specific sectors (like farming), you may be registered for monthly or 6-monthly submissions.

Ready to register for VAT?

Send us your bank statements and invoices for an assessment.

admin@hdaccountants.co.za