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SARS Small Business Tax Guide (2026)

Complete guide to tax obligations for small businesses in South Africa for 2026. Learn about small business corporation tax, simplified tax, registration requirements, and tax benefits for small businesses.

Tax Expert
March 10, 2026
12 min read
SARS Small Business Tax Guide (2026)

SARS Small Business Tax Guide (2026)

Small businesses in South Africa have specific tax obligations and may qualify for certain tax benefits. Understanding small business tax requirements, registration, filing obligations, and available benefits helps you manage your business tax effectively. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about small business tax for 2026.

Small Business Tax Overview

Understanding Small Business Tax

Definition:

  • Tax obligations for small businesses
  • May qualify for benefits
  • Simplified requirements possible
  • Different from large businesses

Key Concepts:

  • Small business corporations
  • Reduced tax rates
  • Simplified compliance
  • Specific requirements

Small Business Corporation (SBC)

What Is an SBC?

Definition:

  • Company qualifying for SBC status
  • Reduced tax rates
  • Specific requirements
  • Tax benefits

Requirements:

  • Gross income below threshold
  • Meets ownership requirements
  • Not a personal service provider
  • Other specific criteria

2026 Threshold:

  • Gross income: R20 million or less
  • Check current threshold
  • May change annually
  • Verify eligibility

SBC Tax Rates

2026 Rates:

  • First R95,750: 0%
  • R95,751 - R365,000: 7%
  • R365,001 - R550,000: 21%
  • Above R550,000: 28%

Benefits:

  • Lower tax rates
  • Significant savings
  • Better cash flow
  • Growth support

Registration Requirements

Income Tax Registration

When to Register:

  • When starting business
  • Before earning income
  • Required for all businesses
  • Register promptly

Process:

  • Register via eFiling
  • Or at SARS branch
  • Provide business details
  • Get tax reference number

VAT Registration

When Required:

  • Turnover exceeds R1 million
  • Within 21 days
  • Or voluntarily
  • Check requirements

Small Business Considerations:

  • May not need VAT if below threshold
  • Can register voluntarily
  • Consider benefits
  • Plan accordingly

PAYE Registration

When Required:

  • If hiring employees
  • Before first payroll
  • Required for employers
  • Register when needed

Filing Obligations

Annual Returns

Income Tax:

  • File ITR14 (companies)
  • Or ITR12 (sole proprietors)
  • Annual requirement
  • Meet deadlines

Deadlines:

  • Vary by entity type
  • Usually within 12 months
  • Check specific dates
  • File on time

VAT Returns

Filing:

  • If VAT registered
  • Usually bi-monthly
  • May be simplified
  • File on time

Simplified Returns:

  • May qualify for simplified
  • Easier compliance
  • Check eligibility
  • Reduced requirements

Tax Benefits for Small Businesses

Reduced Tax Rates

SBC Benefits:

  • Lower tax rates
  • Significant savings
  • Better profitability
  • Growth support

Example:

  • SBC with R300,000 profit
  • Tax at 7% on portion
  • Much lower than standard 27%
  • Significant savings

Simplified Compliance

Benefits:

  • Easier filing
  • Reduced requirements
  • Less complexity
  • Lower compliance costs

Record Keeping

Requirements

What to Keep:

  • Financial records
  • Invoices and receipts
  • Bank statements
  • Tax returns
  • Other documents

Duration:

  • Keep for 5 years
  • After tax year
  • Organize properly
  • Easy to access

Simplified Records

For Small Businesses:

  • May have simplified requirements
  • Still need proper records
  • Support tax returns
  • Maintain compliance

Common Small Business Scenarios

Scenario 1: Sole Proprietor

Tax Treatment:

  • Taxed as individual
  • Use ITR12 return
  • Personal tax rates
  • Business income included

Obligations:

  • Register for income tax
  • File annual return
  • Pay tax on profits
  • Keep records

Scenario 2: Small Company

Tax Treatment:

  • Taxed as company
  • Use ITR14 return
  • May qualify for SBC rates
  • Company tax rates

Obligations:

  • Register company tax
  • File annual return
  • Pay company tax
  • Maintain records

Best Practices

Stay Organized

Tips:

  • Keep all records
  • Organize systematically
  • Maintain calendar
  • Track deadlines

Plan Ahead

Considerations:

  • Know obligations
  • Plan for payments
  • Budget for tax
  • Stay compliant

Get Professional Help

When Needed:

  • Complex situations
  • Uncertain about obligations
  • Need guidance
  • Ensure compliance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a small business corporation?

A company that meets specific requirements including gross income thresholds and ownership criteria, qualifying for reduced tax rates.

Do I need to register for VAT?

You must register if your annual turnover exceeds R1 million, or you can register voluntarily if below.

What tax rate do small businesses pay?

It depends on business structure. SBCs pay reduced rates, while other small businesses pay standard rates.

Can I use simplified tax methods?

Some small businesses may qualify for simplified methods. Check with SARS or a tax practitioner.

What records do I need to keep?

Keep all financial records, invoices, receipts, bank statements, and tax returns for at least 5 years.

Do I need an accountant?

Not required, but recommended for complex situations or to ensure compliance and maximize benefits.

Conclusion

Understanding small business tax obligations helps you manage your business tax effectively and take advantage of available benefits. By registering correctly, filing returns on time, keeping proper records, and understanding your obligations, you can maintain compliance and potentially benefit from reduced tax rates if you qualify as an SBC.

For assistance with small business tax or to determine if you qualify for SBC status, consult a qualified tax practitioner or accountant.


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About the Author
Tax Expert

Tax Expert

Specializing in South African tax law, SARS eFiling, and tax compliance with extensive knowledge of the South African Revenue Service.