VAT Registration and Deregistration Checklist | South Africa

VAT Registration & Deregistration Checklist

This VAT checklist is designed to guide South African businesses through the VAT registration and deregistration process in accordance with the VAT Act and SARS administrative requirements.

VAT Registration Checklist

✓	Checklist Item	Description / SARS Requirement
	Confirm Enterprise Status	Ensure the business is carrying on an enterprise as defined in the VAT Act.
	Assess VAT Threshold	Confirm compulsory registration at R1 million or voluntary registration from R50,000.
	Calculate Taxable Supplies	Exclude exempt supplies when determining taxable turnover.
	Prepare VAT 101 Application	Complete the VAT 101 form accurately for submission to SARS.
	Compile Supporting Documents	CIPC documents, proof of address, bank confirmation, and ID documents.

Note: Late VAT registration may result in retrospective VAT assessments, penalties, and interest.

VAT Deregistration Checklist

✓	Checklist Item	Description / SARS Requirement
	Confirm Deregistration Eligibility	Ensure the enterprise has ceased trading or turnover falls below R1 million.
	Submit Outstanding VAT Returns	All VAT201 returns must be submitted up to the date of deregistration.
	Review Assets and Closing Stock	Identify assets subject to output VAT on deregistration.
	Prepare Final VAT Calculations	Calculate VAT payable or refundable on final return.

Important: Failure to account for output VAT on deregistration can result in penalties and interest.