CIPC has reminded companies that annual Compliance Checklist submissions are mandatory for several company types. SMEs should treat the checklist as an ongoing Companies Act control, not a once-a-year administrative task.
CIPC will close to the public from 10:00 on 24 December 2026 until 4 January 2027. Businesses should plan company filings, document lodgements and compliance work before the year-end cut-off.
SARS has revised its Authorised Economic Operator accreditation policy, including transitional arrangements and an extended transactional period. Importers should review their customs records, authorisations and internal controls.
A disciplined month-end close helps South African SMEs make better tax estimates, spot missing records and avoid preventable compliance issues. Here are practical checks finance teams can build into their routine.
SARS has published the explanatory summary of the proposed Tax Administration Laws Amendment Bill, 2026. The proposals could affect provisional tax estimates, PAYE obligations, VAT documentation, tax compliance status and penalty administration. The Bill is not yet law, so businesses should monitor the legislative process and prepare their records without treating the proposals as current requirements.
Non-provisional taxpayers who still need to submit their 2026 income tax returns have until 23 October 2026. Businesses should help employees and owner-managers confirm their personal tax obligations, supporting documents and SARS profile details before the deadline.
SARS has confirmed an important 2026 filing-season change to the tax treatment of certain assessed losses. Sole traders and individuals with side-business income should review whether the revised Section 20A threshold affects their provisional tax estimates and record-keeping.
SAICA has called for clearer tax treatment of obsolete stock. The proposal is not law, but it highlights why businesses should keep strong inventory records and evidence for write-downs.
CIPC has introduced the first phase of an updated director amendment process, adding OTP confirmations for certain small companies. SMEs should review director records and internal approval controls before submitting changes.
From 16 October 2026, resident trusts must obtain a Tax Compliance Status Good Standing when presenting a Manual Letter of Compliance to an Authorised Dealer for certain fund transfers.
SARS has amended the customs rules for accredited clients, extending a key period from six to 18 calendar months with retrospective effect from 1 September 2025. Importers and exporters should review affected applications, records and internal compliance calendars.