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South African VAT Calculator

Add or remove 15% VAT on any amount instantly - free, no sign-up required.

Enter an amount to calculate VAT.

Current South African VAT rate and thresholds

Standard VAT rate

15%

Compulsory registration

R2.3m

taxable turnover per year

Voluntary registration

R120k

taxable turnover per year

South Africa's standard VAT rate is 15%, charged on most goods and services by registered vendors. A business must register for VAT once its taxable turnover exceeds R2.3 million in any consecutive 12-month period. Voluntary registration is available once turnover exceeds R120,000, even below the compulsory threshold. These thresholds increased from R1 million and R50,000 respectively, effective 1 April 2026 - the first change since 2009.

Some goods and services are zero-rated (0% VAT) or exempt from VAT entirely, including certain basic foodstuffs and exports. Tax rates and thresholds can change - always confirm your current obligations with SARS directly or a registered tax practitioner before making decisions based on this information.

Managing VAT is easier with the right tools

Dailies helps South African small businesses handle the full picture - not just VAT, but sales, expenses, payments, receipts, banking, projects, reporting, and your accountant relationship, all in one place.

Invoicing & Quotes

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Expenses & Receipts

AI-powered receipt capture and expense tracking.

Bank Reconciliation

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Financial Reports

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Frequently asked questions

What is the current VAT rate in South Africa?

The standard VAT rate in South Africa is 15%. A planned increase to 15.5% and later 16% was reversed, and the rate has remained at 15% since. Always confirm the current rate with SARS, as rates can change.

When must a business register for VAT?

Registration is compulsory once your taxable turnover exceeds R2.3 million in any consecutive 12-month period. You can also register voluntarily once your turnover exceeds R120,000, even if you have not reached the compulsory threshold. These thresholds took effect on 1 April 2026, replacing the previous R1 million and R50,000 thresholds.

How do I add VAT to a price?

Multiply the amount excluding VAT by 1.15 to get the amount including VAT. For example, R100 excl. VAT becomes R115 incl. VAT.

How do I remove VAT from a price?

Divide the amount including VAT by 1.15 to get the amount excluding VAT. For example, R115 incl. VAT is R100 excl. VAT, with R15 being the VAT portion.

Is this calculator a substitute for advice from SARS or a tax professional?

No. This calculator is a general tool for quick estimates. For your specific tax obligations, registration status, or filing questions, consult SARS directly or a registered tax practitioner.

This calculator and the information on this page are provided for general guidance only and do not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. VAT rates, thresholds, and regulations can change. Always verify your specific obligations with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) or a qualified tax professional before making business or tax decisions.