Courts rein in SARS: Why procedure and proof now matter more than ever

For many taxpayers, few words inspire as much anxiety as “pay now, argue later”. This long‑standing rule allows the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to collect disputed tax immediately, even while objections or appeals are still pending. But a recent High Court ruling has signalled an important shift, curbing what courts have described as SARS’s “reflexive no” to suspension‑of‑payment requests and reinforcing the growing importance of procedural law and evidence in tax disputes.

Strategic Capital Partners: Markets Navigate Rising Energy Risks

Global markets remained volatile as geopolitical tensions, particularly involving Iran, kept energy prices elevated and heightened inflation concerns. While economic growth is slowing across major regions, persistent cost pressures are limiting central banks’ ability to ease policy. The U.S. shows mixed signals with stable employment but weakening sentiment, Europe and the UK face softening growth, and Asia remains exposed to energy costs and trade tensions. Overall, markets reflect caution as investors balance the risks of slower growth against stubborn inflation. Global markets remained volatile this week. The conflict involving Iran continued to dominate sentiment, with markets reacting to every headline around ceasefire proposals, attacks on energy infrastructure and the prospects for a broader de-escalation. While hopes of diplomatic progress briefly improved sentiment early in the week, those gains proved short-lived as the parties remain far apart on the terms of any…

Budget Highlights for 2026/27

Taxpayers Brace for a Tougher SARS in 2026

South African taxpayers are heading into the new tax year with a clearer picture of what to expect - and the message is unmistakable: stricter enforcement, deeper data‑driven scrutiny and limited tax relief.

Tax Developments 2026

South African taxpayers face two high‑stakes tax developments in the coming year - both tied to SARS’s intensified enforcement drive. The first issue centres on undeclared foreign properties. The second relates to Permanent Establishment (PE) risk, which poses significant challenges for both non-resident companies operating in South Africa and South African businesses expanding overseas however in this article we will focus only on South African businesses operating potential PEs in foreign tax jurisdictions.

Tax changes could hit ordinary South Africans hard

South African taxpayers are in for a few unpleasant surprises if the proposed 2025 Draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill becomes law. Released by National Treasury and SARS in August, the draft legislation aims to close loopholes and broaden the tax base—but critics warn that it could erode savings and increase costs for ordinary citizens.

Understanding the Office of the Tax Ombud: Your Advocate for Fair Tax Administration

For many South Africans, dealing with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) can be a daunting experience, especially when disputes arise over tax matters. While SARS is mandated to collect revenue efficiently and fairly, there are times when taxpayers feel aggrieved by administrative delays, poor service, or procedural errors.

Property Investment and Tax: Unlocking Wealth Without Triggering Liabilities

In South Africa, property remains a cornerstone of wealth creation for high-net-worth individuals and SME owners. Whether you're building a portfolio of rental homes or investing through legal entities, the tax landscape can be both a gateway to growth and a minefield of costly missteps.

Update on South Africa's 2025 Budget: Tax Proposals and Their Implications

In the 2025 Budget Speech delivered on March 12, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana outlined several tax proposals aimed at addressing South Africa's fiscal challenges. These measures are designed to increase revenue and fund essential public services, impacting both individuals and businesses.

Maximising Your Wealth: The SARS Foreign Investment Allowance

For South Africans looking to diversify their investments internationally, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) offers a useful tool - the Foreign Investment Allowance (FIA). This facility allows individuals to legally transfer funds offshore, providing them with access to global markets, asset protection, and financial growth. However, navigating the FIA requires careful planning to ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary risks.

Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) – what South African taxpayers need to know

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana's recent MTBPS has significant implications for South African taxpayers across all income brackets. Delivered on October 30, 2024, the speech outlined the government's fiscal strategy amidst economic challenges, including lower-than-expected tax revenues and rising debt levels.

Trust Tax Season 2024: What Business Owners and Trustees Need to Know

The 2024 trust tax season is well underway, with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) setting the filing period for trusts between 16 September 2024 and 20 January 2025. This year has brought some significant changes that trustees and business owners need to be aware of. These changes not only require thorough documentation but also increased transparency and detail on the activities and financial position of trusts. It is essential for trustees to ensure compliance, as SARS has intensified scrutiny on trust operations and beneficial ownership.

Clarity on Extension of Diesel Refund to Manufacturers of Foodstuffs

In a move aimed at bolstering the local manufacturing sector which is currently under severe pressure further compounded by the Ukraine crisis, the South African Revenue Services (SARS) has provided much-needed clarity on the extension of the diesel refund scheme to manufacturers of foodstuffs.

Tax Evasion and SARS's Crackdown on Non-Compliance: What South African Business Owners Need to Know

In recent years, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has ramped up efforts to combat tax evasion, a growing concern that has led to significant revenue losses for the country. For business owners, understanding the importance of tax compliance and maintaining proper records has never been more crucial. As SARS intensifies its crackdown, the risks associated with non-compliance have increased.

SARS 2024 Tax Season: What You Need to Know About Auto Assessments

As we approach the 2024 tax season, South African taxpayers are preparing for the annual ritual of filing their returns. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has streamlined this process with the introduction of auto assessments, but it is essential to understand the timelines, potential pitfalls and opportunities to ensure that you accurately declare your income and claim all eligible deductions.

Maximise your tax benefits from donating to PBOs

How to maximise your tax benefit from donating to PBOs and how the new SARS rules for S18A certificates affect you.

New SARS IT3(t) Requirements

New SARS IT3(t) Requirements: What South African Trustees Need to Know

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Retention of Accounting and Tax Records