Know Your Rights
SARS makes mistakes. Assessments are often automated and can be incorrect. You have the legal right to Object, Appeal, and request reasons for any decision SARS makes. We are your advocates in this process.
- Negotiation of penalty waivers (Remission of Penalties)
- Formal Objections & Appeals against incorrect SARS assessments
- Voluntary Disclosure Programme (VDP) applications
- Debt Compromise & Deferment of Payment arrangements
- Representation of your case by experienced tax practitioners
Your Defense Strategy
We choose the right legal instrument for your situation.
Penalty Remission
Administrative penalties are often levied for "non-compliance". If we can prove the non-compliance was unintentional (e.g., accountant negligence, illness), we can often get 100% of these waived.
Objection & Appeal
If SARS says you owe tax and you disagree, we file an Objection (NOO). If they disallow that, we file an Appeal to the Tax Court. This formal process pauses debt collection for the disputed amount.
VDP Amnesty
The Voluntary Disclosure Programme is a powerful tool. If you have "skeletons in the closet", VDP allows you to confess them cleanly, paying only the capital tax and interest, with zero criminal charges.
The Resolution Path
A structured legal process to solvency.
Case Assessment
We analyze the timeline of events. Why was the penalty raised? Is SARS correct in law? What are your chances of success?
Drafting the Argument
We draft a formal Request for Remission or Objection, citing specific sections of the Tax Administration Act.
Submission & Tracking
We submit via the correct eFiling channels. These cases can stall, so we follow up relentlessly.
Outcome Management
If successful, the debt is removed. If denied, we advise on the next step (Appeal or ADR).
Common Disputes
The Late Filer
Hit with thousands in administrative penalties for old dormant returns. We help prove dormancy to get penalties waived.
The Audited Business
SARS disallowed a valid expense and issued an additional assessment. We lodge an objection with proof.
The VDP Candidate
Has never declared foreign income or a side business. Wants to come clean before SARS finds out, to avoid criminal prosecution.
How We Work
We believe good accounting starts with structure and consistency. Our approach is designed to give business owners clarity without unnecessary complexity.
Related Insights and Resources
Use these links to move from service scope into practical guidance, supporting documents, and regional pages.
Practical guidance on how to Submit Your Tax Return on eFiling Without Rework.
Practical guidance on tax Clearance Certificate What Usually Delays Approval.
Practical guidance on what to Do If You Miss a SARS Tax Deadline.
Practical guidance on why Small Businesses Fall Behind on Provisional Tax.
Practical guidance on online Tax Services vs Local Advisers.
Practical guidance on what SARS Penalties Usually Point To in a Small Business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my penalties waived?
Yes, but only for valid reasons. 'I forgot' or 'I didn't have money' are not valid. Valid reasons include serious illness, system errors, or external factors beyond your control. We know how to frame these arguments.
What is the VDP (Voluntary Disclosure Programme)?
It is a 'amnesty' mechanism where you approach SARS to confess unpaid taxes BEFORE they audit you. In exchange, they waive criminal prosecution and most penalties. You only pay the tax and interest.
I can't pay my full tax debt. What now?
We can apply for a 'Deferment of Payment' (paying in installments over 6-12 months) or a 'Compromise of Tax Debt' (where SARS writes off a portion of the debt because you are effectively insolvent). These are complex applications but can save a business.
How long do I have to object?
Strictly 30 days from the date of the assessment. If you miss this, you must apply for 'Condonation', explaining why you are late. Time is of the essence.
Does SARS listen to objections?
Yes, if they are legally sound. We find that many objections fail because they are emotional rather than factual. We stick to the facts and the Tax Act.