The business of business travel
Business travel means different things to SARS than to taxpayers. While it has been compulsory for recipients of travel allowances to substantiate their claims by means of a detailed logbook for some years, it has become ever more critical to understand exactly what SARS understands by the term ‘business travel’. The simple reason for making […]
How FATF ‘Greylisting’ will impact South African businesses
SA companies will need to respond quickly to mitigate the risks stemming from this development Global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), has placed South Africa on its so-called ‘grey’ list, adding South Africa to a group of jurisdictions under increased FATF monitoring and meaning that the country has […]
Complex living: Be aware of the hidden costs
When considering the purchase of a unit within a complex, it’s crucial to look beyond the surface-level expenses such as the advertised levies. Without thorough research, potential buyers may find themselves facing unexpected financial burdens. The structure of sectional title schemes In sectional title schemes, you own your unit but share ownership of the property’s […]
Can employees be dismissed for WhatsApp messages?
How widely and consistently do you use WhatsApp in your workplace? Do you have WhatsApp groups designated for work purposes? Can you freely express your opinion on certain topics while in those WhatsApp groups? Given the social media era that has dawned within the workplace, a crucial question that needs to be addressed is whether […]
Can a testator disinherit his/her surviving spouse?
The Maintenance of Surviving Spouses Act 27 of 1990 permits surviving spouses to seek maintenance from the deceased spouse’s estate upon the marriage ending due to death. This claim lasts until the survivor’s death or remarriage and factors in estate value, the survivor’s financial circumstances, marriage duration, living standards, and age. It is widely recognised […]
The financial costs and benefits of solar power
The shift towards renewable energy in South Africa has seen a significant rise in the adoption of solar power. While the benefits of solar energy, such as sustainability and long-term cost savings, are well-known, it’s important to also consider the hidden costs and challenges associated with solar power systems. This balanced analysis aims to provide […]
Tax Implications for marriages in community of property
The default marriage regime has some complicated tax consequences. When couples are caught up in wedding and honeymoon planning, visiting their attorney often takes a backseat. Many couples don’t realise that different marital laws affect how their assets are managed during marriage, divided if it ends, and how they’re taxed. The different legal frameworks determine […]
Your PAYE obligations as an employer
As an employer, it is your responsibility to withhold tax from your employees’ salaries and remit it to SARS. Employee tax is a key component of the South African tax system and is the mechanism through which employers withhold and remit income tax on behalf of their employees. Commonly known as PAYE (which stands for […]
When to register your business for VAT
There’s a compulsory threshold, but there may be advantages to voluntary registration. Value-added Tax (VAT) registration is a crucial obligation for businesses operating in South Africa. Knowing when to register for VAT is essential to comply with tax laws and avoid penalties. This article discusses the circumstances under which businesses must register for VAT in […]
Should sellers provide approved building plans when selling property?
The simple answer is no. However, the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act mandates that local authorities approve building plans for the construction, alteration, or conversion of a building. Consequently, if approved plans are absent, the property owner would be committing a statutory offence. Once signed by both parties, an offer to purchase becomes […]