Adapting to Global Funding Cuts: How NGOs in Africa Can Regroup and Build Resilience

The recent announcements of funding cuts by major global donors, particularly the United States, have sent shockwaves through the African non-profit sector. For NGOs that rely heavily on international aid, this shift can feel like an existential threat. But while the challenges are real, they also present an opportunity for innovation, sustainability, and resilience-building. The […]

Africa Day Spotlight: The Role of SMEs in Driving Continental Growth

Africa Day, celebrated on 25 May, marks the foundation of the African Union and reminds us of the continent’s immense potential. As we celebrate this milestone, it’s the perfect moment to highlight the backbone of Africa’s economy: small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Why SMEs Matter Across the continent, SMEs account for more than 80% of […]

Mental Health Awareness for Business Owners and Teams

Anytime is teatime when it comes to Mental Health Awareness. It is good to check-in and talk honestly about the toll that running a business can take. Financial pressure, decision fatigue, and burnout aren’t signs of weakness—they’re signs that something needs to change. The Entrepreneurial Mental Load Small business owners wear many hats—CEO, finance manager, […]

Wrapping Up the Tax Season: Lessons Learned & Planning Ahead

With the 28 February tax year-end now behind us, many businesses are taking stock of their financials. If this tax season felt more stressful than it should have, you’re not alone. Let’s unpack the key lessons and how you can position your business for a better, more efficient tax year in 2025/2026. Common Mistakes We […]

VAT Got You Down? Here’s How to Rise Above the Hike

When the Minister of Finance took to the podium for the 2025 South African Budget Speech, many small business owners held their breath. Among the most talked-about announcements? A 0.5% increase in VAT, raising the rate from 15% to 15.5% on 1 May 2025 and 1.5% increase to 17% on 1 April 2026. For many […]

From Panic to Plan: Building a Business That Thrives in Any Economy

With the 2025 Budget Speech behind us, many entrepreneurs are asking, “Can my business survive this economy?” Between the VAT hike, rising fuel prices, and consumer belt-tightening, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: thriving in tough times is possible. It starts with a shift from panic to planning. Start with Mindset […]

Budgeting Bravely: Small Business Survival After the 2025 Budget Speech

The 2025 Budget Speech delivered its fair share of surprises. For small and micro business owners, one thing is clear: operating costs are rising. Fuel levies went up. So did sin taxes. Public sector wages will continue to demand a big slice of the pie. Inflation, while softening, remains a stubborn reality. But here’s the […]

Tax Talk: What the 2025 Budget Means for Micro and Informal Businesses

If you’re a sole proprietor, freelancer, or operate an informal business, you might have thought the Budget Speech wasn’t “for people like you.” But think again. The 2025 Budget Speech included subtle shifts that directly affect micro-entrepreneurs — and they could either hurt or help your journey, depending on how you respond. What’s New for […]

Understanding CIPC Annual Returns vs. SARS Annual Tax Returns

As a South African business owner, it’s important to stay compliant with regulatory bodies such as the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS). While both require annual returns, they serve different purposes. Let’s break down the key differences and why both are essential for your business. What is […]

Women’s Month Spotlight: Celebrating Women in Business & Finance

March 8 marks International Women’s Day—a time to celebrate the resilience, innovation, and leadership of women in business and finance. Despite ongoing challenges, women entrepreneurs and professionals are making significant strides in shaping South Africa’s economy. What is the Role of Women in South Africa’s Business Landscape Women-led businesses contribute significantly to economic growth, job […]

Budget 2025: What South African Businesses Need to Know

Key Takeaways from Budget 2025 The South African National Budget Speech is one of the most critical events for business owners and entrepreneurs. The policies announced impact everything from tax rates to government incentives and economic forecasts. Understanding these changes is crucial for making informed financial and strategic decisions. Key Takeaways from Budget 2025 1. […]

Are you financially fit for the year?

March signals the end of the first quarter of the calendar year—an ideal time for business owners to assess financial health and make necessary adjustments. A proactive approach now can set your business up for long-term success. Key Financial Health Indicators 1. Cash Flow Management Maintaining a healthy cash flow is critical. Are your customers […]

The Road Ahead: Smart Tax Strategies for South African Businesses Post Tax Year-End

With the tax year-end behind us on 28 February 2025, it’s time for business owners to shift their focus from compliance to forward-looking tax planning. March is the perfect month to set a proactive strategy that ensures tax efficiency, maximizes deductions, and keeps your business ahead of regulatory changes. 1. Learn from the Past: Reviewing […]

Love Your Business: Financial Strategies for Sustainable Growth

February is the month of love, but beyond chocolates and roses, it’s the perfect time to show your business some love, too! Just like any great relationship, a successful business thrives on commitment, care, and long-term planning. By implementing strong financial strategies, you can ensure that your business not only survives but thrives in the […]

Tax Season Prep: What Small Businesses Need to Know Before the Deadline

Tax season can be overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be stressful. As the deadline approaches, here’s what small businesses need to know to stay compliant and avoid penalties. 1. Know Your Tax Deadlines Missing deadlines can result in costly penalties. Keep track of important dates for VAT, income tax, and […]

Empowering Youth Entrepreneurs: Financial Tips for the Next Generation

Entrepreneurship is an exciting journey, but financial management can make or break a startup. Young entrepreneurs often face unique challenges, from securing funding to managing cash flow. By adopting smart financial habits early, they can set themselves up for long-term success. Here are some key financial tips for the next generation of business leaders. 1. […]

Why Financial Planning is the Ultimate Act of Self-Love

February is a month of love, and while romantic relationships take center stage, there’s one relationship that deserves just as much attention—your relationship with your finances! Practicing financial self-care is one of the greatest acts of self-love. It sets you up for long-term security, reduces stress, and gives you the freedom to live life on […]

Empowering Entrepreneurs: Building Resilient Businesses in 2025

South African entrepreneurs face a unique set of challenges in 2025, from navigating fluctuating economic conditions to adapting to technological advancements. Building resilience is key to thriving in this dynamic environment. This article explores actionable strategies to help entrepreneurs overcome obstacles and achieve long-term success. Strategies to Thrive in Uncertain Economic Conditions The Importance of […]

Top 5 Software Tools Every Small Business Owner Needs in 2025

Managing your busines operations effectively is critical for small business success. With the right tools, entrepreneurs can streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and ensure compliance. These are five tools that we use in our business and some of our clients use in theirs. We consider these to be “must-haves” in our business. We have detailed below […]

Mastering Your 2025 Business Goals: A Financial Planning Checklist

Starting the year with a robust financial plan sets the stage for achieving business success. Use this checklist to streamline your operations and focus on growth. Monthly Checklist for Financial Success Simplify Your Tasks with Primorial’s Tools Primorial offers templates and tools to: Call-to-Action: Join our Facebook group for exclusive access to checklists, how-to-videos and […]

Unlocking Growth: The Power of Financial Education for Entrepreneurs

Financial literacy is a cornerstone of entrepreneurial success. With the right knowledge, business owners can make informed decisions, plan strategically, and drive growth. Here’s why financial education matters and how Primorial is leading the charge: The Importance of Financial Literacy Empowering Women and Youth Primorial’s initiatives focus on: Upcoming Resources to Look Forward To By […]

Holiday Marketing: Boost Sales Without Breaking the Bank

The festive season is a prime time to attract customers without overspending. Focus on leveraging digital platforms, like email campaigns and social media, to promote special offers. Collaborate with other small businesses for cross-promotions. Create holiday-themed content that engages your audience, from giveaways to countdown deals. Emphasize customer loyalty by offering discounts or exclusive perks. […]

Festive Financial Planning: Preparing Your Business for Year-End Success

The festive season brings both opportunities and challenges for businesses. Start by reviewing your financials to forecast needs accurately. Create a budget for seasonal spending, including bonuses and marketing, while reserving funds for early-year obligations. Use this time to assess outstanding invoices and streamline accounts receivable processes. Finally, invest in technology or outsourcing solutions to […]

Revisit Deductions: How to Maximize Your Tax Savings While Staying Compliant

Year-end is a perfect time to revisit your deductible expenses and ensure your tax claims are accurate and legitimate. Properly utilizing deductions not only reduces your taxable income but also strengthens your financial foundation. Festive payroll often includes bonuses and extra costs, making it essential to plan. Start by calculating year-end payroll expenses, including UIF […]

The Gift of Compliance: Year-End Tax Must-Knows for Small Businesses

As the year ends, staying compliant with SARS regulations is crucial. Start by confirming deadlines for VAT, PAYE, and provisional tax submissions. Organize receipts and documentation to ease the filing process. If your financial records need attention, consider outsourcing to ensure accuracy. Claim all eligible deductions, such as festive season expenses, but avoid over-claiming to […]

New Year, New Goals: Setting a Financial Roadmap for 2025

As 2024 wraps up, it’s time to reflect on the past year and set a financial strategy for 2025. A proactive approach ensures your business is equipped for sustainable growth and stability. 1. Evaluate 2024’s Performance Review key financial metrics, including revenue, expenses, and cash flow. Identify trends, strengths, and areas for improvement to guide […]

Digital Nomadism and Remote Work: Opportunities for Entrepreneurs in Emerging Markets

In today’s rapidly evolving global economy, digital nomadism and remote work are no longer niche trends—they’ve become mainstream, especially in emerging markets. With advancements in technology and a growing demand for flexible work environments, entrepreneurs across countries like India, Kenya, and Vietnam are seizing the opportunity to leverage global talent pools while significantly reducing overhead […]

The Rise of Sustainable Entrepreneurship in Emerging Markets

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword but a key business imperative in today’s global marketplace. Entrepreneurs in emerging markets like Southeast Asia and Africa are increasingly integrating eco-friendly practices into their business models, driven by a growing consumer demand for sustainability. These regions, once heavily reliant on traditional industries, are transforming into hubs of innovation […]

Blockchain and Cryptocurrency: Empowering Entrepreneurs in Emerging Markets

Blockchain technology is transforming the entrepreneurial landscape in emerging markets, particularly in regions where access to traditional banking is limited. Entrepreneurs across Africa and Latin America are harnessing the power of blockchain to create new business models, foster financial inclusion, and drive innovation. By enabling secure transactions, decentralized finance (DeFi), and transparent supply chains, blockchain […]

Navigating the Geopolitical Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities for Emerging Market Entrepreneurs

As we move through 2024, the global business environment continues to face significant geopolitical tensions, impacting markets around the world. For entrepreneurs in emerging markets, these challenges—ranging from supply chain disruptions to inflationary pressures—can create both obstacles and opportunities. While the geopolitical landscape is uncertain, entrepreneurs in countries like India, Kenya, and Brazil are adapting […]

Mastering Financial Forecasting for Small Businesses

Financial forecasting is a vital tool for any small business looking to plan for long-term success. It enables business owners to anticipate financial needs, allocate resources effectively, and stay ahead of potential risks. Here’s how you can get started: 1. Set Clear Objectives Begin by defining what you want to achieve. Whether it’s forecasting revenue, […]

Balancing the Books and the Mind: Financial Tips for Stress-Free Business Management

As an entrepreneur, managing the day-to-day operations of your business can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. From tracking expenses and cash flow to ensuring tax compliance and long-term profitability, the financial responsibilities of running a business often contribute to high levels of stress. Without proper financial management strategies, this stress can easily […]

Mental Health in the Workplace: How Leaders Can Foster a Healthier Work Environment

As a business owner, your employees are one of your most valuable assets. Their productivity, creativity, and commitment are crucial to the sustainability and long-term profitability of your small business. However, in order for them to perform at their best, it’s vital to foster a work environment that supports both their mental and physical well-being. […]

From Burnout to Breakthrough: The Role of Outsourced CFOs in Relieving Business Stress

Running a small business can be deeply rewarding, but it often comes with high levels of stress and responsibility. As a business owner, you’re expected to wear many hats—overseeing operations, managing teams, and ensuring your business remains financially stable. For many entrepreneurs, managing finances can be particularly daunting, especially when you’re already juggling countless other […]

The Financial Impact of Mental Health: Why Employee Well-being Matters in Business

In today’s fast-paced work environment, small business owners often prioritize financial performance and operations to achieve sustainability and long-term profitability. However, a key aspect that is often overlooked but has a direct influence on business success is employee well-being, particularly mental health. Studies have shown that businesses where mental health is prioritized tend to be […]

Why Being a Business Owner Is Unlike the Board Game Monopoly—and How to Win in Real Life

Being a business owner is far from the simplicity and predictability of a board game like Monopoly. In Monopoly, the rules are clear, the objectives are straightforward, and the game ends when someone wins by bankrupting their competitors. In contrast, real-world entrepreneurship is a complex, ongoing journey with no defined endpoint. Unlike Monopoly, where everyone […]

The Journey of Resilience

Owning a small business is often portrayed as the ultimate path to freedom and financial independence. The allure of being your own boss, setting your own hours, and reaping the rewards of your hard work can be incredibly appealing. However, the reality of small business ownership is often far more complex and challenging. Behind the […]

Ease the Cash Flow Strain of Tax Payments : Small Business

For small business owners, tax payments can be a significant source of cash flow strain. Unlike regular expenses, taxes often come in large, periodic sums that can disrupt the financial balance of a business if not properly managed. However, with careful planning and smart strategies, you can ease this burden and keep your cash flow […]

Tips for Cash Flow Management: A Guide to Long-Term Profitability

At Primorial, we understand that managing cash flow is one of the most critical aspects of running a successful small business. Cash flow management isn’t just about keeping the lights on—it’s about building a foundation for long-term profitability and growth. As your partner in long-term profitability, we’re here to offer actionable tips that will help […]

Cash is King for Business Sustainability

For any business, especially small ones, maintaining a positive cash balance is not just a goal—it’s a necessity for survival. Cash flow is the lifeblood of a business, fueling day-to-day operations, growth opportunities, and the ability to navigate challenges. However, managing cash effectively is one of the most common survival challenges that small businesses face. […]

Breaking Barriers: The Role of Advisory Services in Supporting Female-Led Startups

Women’s Month in South Africa is a time to celebrate the achievements of women and recognize the ongoing challenges that they face. At Primorial, we are dedicated to supporting female-led startups, helping them break barriers and achieve success through our comprehensive advisory services. The Historical Context of Women’s Month Women’s Month commemorates the 1956 march […]

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Building Sustainable Businesses through Strategic Financial Planning

As we celebrate Women’s Month in South Africa, we honour the strength, resilience, and contributions of women to our society. Women’s Month is a reminder of the progress we’ve made and the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender equality. At Primorial, being women-lead ourselves, we are dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs, […]

Youth and Women Empowerment: Preparing the Next Generation of Female Leaders

As we celebrate Women’s Month in South Africa, it’s essential to focus on empowering the next generation of female leaders. At Primorial, we are committed to fostering leadership skills through mentorship programs and educational opportunities, ensuring that young women are prepared to lead and succeed in the business world. The Importance of Early Mentorship and […]

Financial Literacy for Women: A Key to Economic Empowerment

As we celebrate Women’s Month in South Africa, it’s essential to focus on the economic empowerment of women through financial literacy. At Primorial, we believe that equipping women with financial knowledge is crucial for their success and long-term prosperity. The Importance of Financial Literacy Financial literacy involves understanding and effectively using various financial skills, including […]

Tax Efficiency Strategies for Small Businesses in South Africa

At Primorial, we understand the challenges small businesses face in navigating the complex world of taxes. As a SAICA-accredited firm and registered SARS Tax Practitioner, our goal is to partner with businesses for their long-term profitability. Effective tax planning can make a significant difference in your business’s financial health, helping you save money and reinvest […]

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Navigating Compliance: A Guide for New Entrepreneurs in South Africa

Starting a new business is an exciting journey filled with opportunities and challenges. As a new entrepreneur in South Africa, one of the most crucial aspects of ensuring your business’s success is navigating the compliance landscape. At Primorial, we understand the complexities involved and are here to help you every step of the way. Our […]

Use This SARS Incentive to Bring Young People into Your Business

“The employment tax incentive is aimed at encouraging employers to hire young and less experienced work seekers.” (SARS Employers ETI Guide) With Youth Day celebrations around the corner, business owners have an opportunity not only to consider unlocking the benefits of having young workers in their teams, but also to make a difference to South […]

How to Implement Effective Leadership Development in your Business

“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” (John F. Kennedy) The world of work is changing, rapidly. With more teams made up of diverse people from a wide variety of locations, leadership these days has become less about personal relationships and more about managing across distance and effective organisation. Leaders in this world need […]

Quick Tips for Preventing Time Fraud

“Fraud and deceit are anxious for your money. Be informed and prudent” (John Andreas Widtsoe, scientist, author and religious leader) While accountants have become adept at spotting and preventing financial fraud simply by analysing a company’s books, there is another kind of fraud that needs alert leadership, record keeping and careful analysis to completely snuff […]

Employers: Your COIDA Return of Earnings Deadline is 30 June 2024

“The Compensation Fund is mandated to provide social security to the injured-on-duty employees and those who contracted diseases at the workplace.” (Compensation Fund Annual Report 2021/2022) By law, all employers are compelled to register for COIDA (Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act No. 130 of 1993) within 7 days of employing their first employee. […]

Your Tax Deadlines for June 2024

07 June – Monthly Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) submissions and payments 25 June – Value-Added Tax (VAT) manual submissions and payments 27 June – Excise Duty payments 28 June – Corporate Income Tax (CIT) Provisional Tax payments 28 June – End of the 1st fiscal quarter 28 June – Value-Added Tax (VAT) electronic submissions and payments. Disclaimer: The […]

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Your Employer Annual Declaration is Due by 31 May

“Failure by an employer to comply with its obligations does not only harm that employer and the fiscus, but also employees. SARS vigorously pursues employers that fail to comply.” (SARS) Employers must submit their annual reconciliation declarations (EMP501) with accurate and up-to-date payroll information about their employees by 31 May this year. This is among the […]

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How and When to Save a Struggling Start-Up

“Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.”- (Henry Ford, founder of Ford Motor Company) Data from StatsSA has shown that more than 1,500 businesses closed their doors for good in South Africa last year. This can come as no surprise to anyone who conducts business in South Africa at the moment, […]

Beneficial Ownership Registers – Now Mandatory with CIPC Annual Returns

“It is imperative that ALL companies and close corporations ensure compliance with the beneficial ownership filing requirements, to ensure good corporate governance and business continuity.” (CIPC) Following changes to the Companies Act on 24 May 2023, company directors and members of close corporations are obliged to lodge and maintain a detailed Beneficial Ownership (BO) Register, along […]

Five Things You Need to do After the CIPC Hack

“The Internet is a worldwide platform for sharing information. It is a community of common interests. No country is immune to such global challenges as cybercrime, hacking, and invasion of privacy” – (Lu Wei, the head of the General Office of the Central Leading Group for Internet Security and Informatization from August 2013 to June […]

Your Tax Deadlines for May 2024

07 May – PAYE submissions and payments 24 May– Value-Added Tax (VAT) manual submissions and payments 30 May – Excise duty payments 31 May – VAT electronic submissions and payments, & Corporate Income Tax (CIT) Provisional Tax payments where applicable. Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No […]

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Have Your Own Budget Shortfall? Here’s What to Do


“The cold, harsh reality is that we have to balance the budget.” (Michael Bloomberg, former New York City Mayor) Budget shortfalls are not uncommon across the public and private sectors, especially in these economically challenging times. A budget shortfall is a significant concern for any individual or organisation and should be corrected promptly. To address […]

Price Your Products for Profit with these Psychological Strategies

“Find the right price for an irresistible offer, which, by the way, isn’t necessarily the lower price.” ― (W. Chan Kim, Business strategy advisor and author)        A good businessperson pays attention to the price of their products. With accountants by their side, they wisely analyse every expense, tax and logistical possibility to ensure their product […]

Freelancer vs Employee: How to Decide

“People are not your most important asset. The right people are.” (Jim Collins, author, speaker and consultant) Knowing whether to hire a freelancer or full-time employee for any particular role is vital for the successful running of a modern business. With budgets constantly being constrained and the pressure to perform going up, ensuring you maximise your […]

Donating to a PBO? Check SARS’ New Requirements (and PBOs Note Your New 31 May Deadline)

“[The new requirements] enable
 a more efficient process to make deductions available to qualifying donor taxpayers and to help prevent section 18A claims abuse.” (SARS) Public benefit organisations (PBOs) are engaged in public benefit activities for example religious institutions, day care centres, disaster relief organisations, health clinics, etc. Many are dependent on donations and, to […]

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Your Tax Deadlines for April 2024

05 April – Monthly Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) submissions and payments 25 April – VAT manual submissions and payments 29 April – Excise Duty payments 30 April – Value-Added Tax (VAT) electronic submissions and payments & CIT Provisional payments where applicable. Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability […]

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Budget 2024: How It Affects You and Your Business

“Our bigger challenge
 is that our pie is not growing fast enough and this limits our ability to generate sufficient revenues to distribute among our priority areas.” (Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana – Budget 2024) Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s third Budget Speech in an election year contained few surprises, but also little in the form of […]

Budget 2024: Your Tax Tables and Tax Calculator

Budget 2024 effectively brought an increase in personal income tax by not adjusting the tables for tax rates, rebates and medical tax credits, while also implementing substantial increases in ‘sin’ taxes and introducing a proposed global tax on multinational companies. This selection of official SARS Tax Tables and other useful resources will help clarify your […]

Things to Look for When Buying a Small Business

“It’s far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price, than a fair company at a wonderful price.”- (Warren Buffett, investor, businessman and philanthropist) When buying a small business there are a number of things that need to be checked before pulling the trigger and signing the contract. Doing proper due diligence will […]

The Five Skills Your Business Needs to Cultivate in 2024

“The only thing worse than training your employees and having them leave is not training them and having them stay.” – (Henry Ford, Founder, Ford Motor Company) In a world where everything seems more expensive today than it was yesterday training and advancement of staff can seem of lesser importance. As an increasing number of […]

Your Tax Deadlines for March 2024

07 March – Monthly Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) submissions and payments 25 March – VAT manual submissions and payments 27 March – Excise duty payments 28 March – End of the 2023/24 Financial year, Value-Added Tax (VAT) electronic submissions and payments, & CIT Provisional payments where applicable. Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not be used or relied […]

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Provisional Tax: Are You Ready for the Crucial 29 February Deadline?

“Provisional tax is merely a mechanism to pay the normal income tax liability during the tax year
 an advance payment of a taxpayer’s normal tax liability.” (SARS) To provisional taxpayers, especially those who are liable for provisional tax in both their personal capacities and as business owners, it may well seem that there are endless […]

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These Invoicing Tips Could Save Your Business

“Never take your eyes off the cash flow because it’s the lifeblood of business” (Sir Richard Branson, entrepreneur, investor, and author) Cash is king, said one anonymous business genius. At the end of the day, it’s having money in the bank that keeps a company running smoothly. According to a recent study by Sibongiseni Selby […]

Build Your Team Stronger This Year

“Great things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people.” (Steve Jobs) There are many benefits to having a great team, and these have been backed up by scientific research around the world. These include, for example: Improved productivity, with thousands of employees noting that having the respect of […]

Adapt or Die: How to Develop a Digital Transformation Strategy

“At least 40% of all businesses will die in the next 10 years
 if they don’t figure out how to change their entire company to accommodate new technologies.” John Chambers, former CEO of Cisco Systems) Around the boardroom tables of the world, one thing is on every agenda – digital transformation. From global conglomerates to […]

Your Tax Deadlines for February 2024

07 February – Monthly Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) submissions and payments 23 February – Value-Added Tax (VAT) manual submissions and payments 28 February – Excise Duty payments 29 February – CIT Provisional Tax payments 29 February – PIT Provisional Tax payments 29 February – Value-Added Tax (VAT) electronic submissions and payments Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not […]

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How to Survive Ongoing High Interest Rates in 2024

“Inflation is bringing us true democracy. For the first time in history, luxuries and necessities are selling at the same price.” (Robert Orben, comedian and writer) Interest rates and inflation are a nasty partnership that can, if managed badly, derail any small to medium enterprise. Their effects are felt in every area of the business […]

How to Achieve Tax Compliance Throughout 2024

“SARS is willing and ready to assist taxpayers who want to be compliant. Where taxpayers willfully and intentionally ignore their legal obligations, SARS will act sternly.” (SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter) Businesses are often required to share their tax compliance status, for example for a tender application, bidding process or prequalification as a supplier; to confirm that […]

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Your Tax Deadlines for January 2024

05 January – Monthly Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) submissions and payments 24 January – End of Filing Season for Provisional taxpayers 24 January – End of Trusts Filing Season for taxpayers liable for provisional tax 30 January – Excise Duty payments 31 January – Value-Added Tax (VAT) electronic submissions and payments & CIT Provisional payments where applicable. […]

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Corporate Gifting: How to Boost Your Business This Festive Season

“A real gift comes attached with ribbons, not strings.” (Raymond C Nolan) Most clients, suppliers and business associates will appreciate a thoughtful gift from your company, and the Festive Season is the most appropriate time to send such a gift. The challenge lies in selecting a gift that conveys genuine intentions to thank the recipients […]

Festive Season Gifts for Employees? Here’s How SARS Will Tax Them

“Think of giving not as a duty but as a privilege.” (John D. Rockefeller Jr.) Most businesses want to show appreciation to their employees at the end of a long year’s work, and the “Season of Giving” is the ideal time. A thoughtful gift will make any employee feel more recognised and appreciated, and this […]

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9 Tips for Catching CV Liars

“No man has a good enough memory to be a successful liar” – Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States of America, 1861-1865  In a recent survey conducted by StandOutCV more than 50% of Americans admitted to lying on their CV. It’s a staggering number, and something that is taking place in a country where […]

Your Tax Deadlines for December 2023

7 December – Monthly Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) submissions and payments 28 December – Excise Duty payments 29 December – End of 3rd Financial Quarter 29 December – Value-Added Tax (VAT) electronic submissions and payments & CIT Provisional payments where applicable. Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability […]

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Employee Incentives That Really Work for Small Businesses

“Always treat your employees exactly as you want them to treat your best customers.” (Stephen R. Covey, author of The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People) Small businesses often lose their talent to large companies simply because they can’t afford the kinds of salaries and incentives on offer at a global corporate. Keeping staff happy […]

SARS Admin Penalties: What Taxpayers Can Do

“
imposing administrative non-compliance penalties is to ensure the widest possible compliance with the provisions of a Tax Act 
 they are imposed impartially, consistently and proportionately to the seriousness and duration of the non-compliance.” (SARS) The Tax Administration Act stipulates that SARS can issue administrative penalties for outstanding tax returns. In previous years, penalties were only imposed […]

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Dispute with SARS? Here are the New Rules


“The importance of the ability of taxpayers to challenge the legality of actions and decisions within the tax system is internationally recognised.” (Taxpayers’ Rights: Theory, Origin and Implementation) In South Africa, taxpayers have the right to dispute tax assessments, interest, late payment penalties, and administrative penalties for various taxes, including Personal Income Tax (PIT), Corporate Income […]

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Your Tax Deadlines for November 2023

7 November – Monthly Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) submissions and payments 29 November – Excise Duty payments 30 November – Value-Added Tax (VAT) electronic submissions and payments & CIT Provisional payments where applicable. Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions […]

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The Risky New Trust Landscape – What Trustees Need to do Now

“The common assumption is that trusts are some kind of tax panacea…Then, conversely, from a South African Revenue Service (SARS) perspective, trusts are viewed with a degree of suspicion and mistrust. [T]he truth lies somewhere between these positions.” (Broomberg on Tax Strategy) The legal and tax landscape in which South African trusts operate has changed […]

Tips for Pacing Business Growth for Sustainability

“Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together” – (James Cash Penney, Founder of JCPenney) Every business decision carries profound consequences for the enduring existence of the organisation, and this is no more true than when it is applied to those decisions affecting business growth. Knowing how and when […]

Don’t Fall Prey to the Most Common Cybercrimes!

“The bottom line is that cyber risks sit right alongside rising systemic risks, and is the biggest emerging, and constantly evolving risk facing businesses today.” (SHA Specialist Risk Review 2022) In Africa, Interpol has identified phishing – particularly Business Email Compromise (BEC) – as well as online scams, as both the biggest current crime threats, […]

Your Tax Deadlines for October 2023

6 October – Monthly Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) submissions and payments 30 October – Excise Duty payments 31 October – Value-Added Tax (VAT) electronic submissions and payments & CIT Provisional payments where applicable. Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions […]

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Using a “Risk Matrix” to Risk-Proof Your Business

“Don’t be fearful of risks. Understand them, and manage and minimize them to an acceptable level.” (Naved Abdali, Financial journalist and author) Managing risk in your business is absolutely critical for developing it to success. Knowing exactly which threats are really relevant and which will help any leader to develop strategy and prepare for the […]

Common Tax-Related Criminal Offences, and How to Avoid Them


“The difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion is the thickness of a prison wall.” (Denis Healey, former British prime minister)     Section 234 in Chapter 17 of the Tax Administration Act (TAA) sets out a list of criminal tax offences. If prosecuted and convicted of a tax criminal offence, taxpayers will – at the least […]

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Corporate Taxpayers: Hello Tougher SARS Verifications

“Any taxpayer can be selected by SARS for verification for the purpose of proper administration of tax, including on a risk basis.” (SARS) Companies must, within 12 months of their financial year-end, submit to SARS an Income Tax Return for Companies (ITR14), as well as supporting documents, declaring their full income tax responsibility to SARS. This declaration, return and […]

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Quiet Quitting and How to Prevent It

“Quiet quitting” isn’t laziness…When they don’t feel cared about, people eventually stop caring. If you want them to go the extra mile, start with meaningful work, respect, and fair pay.” – (Adam Grant, organizational psychologist and speaker) The idea of the recently acknowledged trend of quiet quitting is not really new at all. Some people […]

Your Tax Deadlines for September 2023

7 September – Monthly Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) submissions and payments 28 September – Excise Duty payments 29 September – End of the 2nd Financial Quarter, Value-Added Tax (VAT) electronic submissions and payments, CIT Provisional payments where applicable. Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for […]

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Tax Season 2023 Now Open – What’s New and What’s Not

“The submission of accurate personal income tax returns on time is important for a seamless filing season. Taxpayers must take control of their own tax affairs to ensure they are aware of their obligations and remain compliant.” (SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter) SARS recently announced the dates and changes for the 2023 Tax Season, which opened on […]

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Tips for Getting out of Business Debt

“Borrowing isn’t inherently bad; it depends a lot on what the debt is financing” (Stephen Moore, writer and economic commentator)  Taking on debt can be a good thing for a company. It can fund expansions, help you seize market share or diversify offerings. Handled incorrectly it can, however, lead to severe problems that could ultimately […]