Menu Close

IMPLEMENTATION OF TAX-RELATED COVID-19 MEASURES

Last week, SARS announced the implementation of measures to ensure the safety of all of its employees and clients. It is expected that these measures will be tightened as a result of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement of a nationwide lockdown in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Want to know more about the SARS measures and the measures announced by President Ramaphosa?

SARS COVID-19 MEASURES

The following queries can be attended to via SARS eFiling:

  • Enquiries with respect to outstanding debt and making payments.
  • Enquiries with respect to outstanding returns.
  • Requesting Tax Compliance Status.
  • Obtaining a Notice of Registration (IT150).
  • Filing of tax returns.
  • Updating personal details (including bank details).
  • Requesting a Statement of Account.
  • Income tax registration.
  • Submission of supporting documents for an audit case.

COVID-19 MEASURES ANNOUNCED BY THE PRESIDENT

Herewith a summary of some of the measures announced by President Ramaphosa on 23 March 2020:

  • The government will provide seed capital of R150 million to qualifying recipients.
  • The government is considering a special dispensation for businesses that are in financial distress as a result of COVID-19.
  • Employees that contract COVID-19 at their place of work will be able to submit a claim at the Workmen’s Compensation Fund.
  • A tax subsidy of up to R500 per month for the next 4 months for private sector employees earning below R6 500 will be implemented under the Employment Tax Incentive Scheme.
  • There will be an acceleration of the payment of employment tax incentive reimbursements from twice a year to monthly.
  • Tax compliant businesses with a turnover of less than R50 million will be allowed to delay 20% of their PAYE liabilities over the next 4 months, and a portion of their provisional corporate income tax payments, without penalties and interest over the next 6 months.
  • Possible temporary reduction of employers’ and employees’ monthly UIF contributions and employers’ monthly contributions to the Skills Development Fund.
  • The Department of Small Business Development has made over R500 million available immediately to assist SMEs that are in financial distress through a simplified application process.

Follow us on social media    to keep track of tax-related COVID-19 measures.