Category: News Flash | Income Tax SAICA SAIPA SAIT SARS Tax Debt Tax Practitioner CIBA Compromise
In a proactive move to support compliant taxpayers grappling with longstanding financial pressures, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has launched the Expedited Tax Debt Compromise Process. It's like a second chance to clear your old debts by paying only what you can afford – often much less than the full amount. This one-time offer runs until December 31, 2025, and it's designed to help everyday people and small businesses hit by tough times, like job losses or economic squeezes. SARS will work with you to agree on a fair deal, and they promise a decision in just four weeks if your paperwork is in order.
Why This Matters for You
Old tax debts can grow with interest and penalties, making life even harder. But under this program, you could settle for a fraction of what you owe – depending on your situation. It's not automatic forgiveness; SARS checks if you really can't pay the full bill. If approved, the rest of the debt disappears once you pay the agreed amount, either in one go or up to six easy instalments.
This is a big win for families and small business owners struggling after COVID, loadshedding, or rising costs. SARS wants to help you get back on your feet while collecting what they can fairly.
Do You Qualify? A Quick Self-Check
You might be eligible if:
- Your debt is from regular taxes and over 12 months old.
- There's no fight going on about the debt – you agree it's owed.
- You've filed all your tax returns (even if you couldn't pay them).
- You're not bankrupt, closing your business, or in big financial trouble like business rescue.
You probably won't qualify if the debt is new (under 12 months), disputed, or tied to illegal stuff. No worries if you're not sure – that's why experts are here to help.
How to Get Started – Don't Go It Alone
The easiest way to jump in? Contact Tax A Sured (registered tax practitioners) right away. They're pros who know the rules and can check if you qualify, gather your papers, and submit everything smoothly. Going solo is possible, but a tax practitioner makes it less stressful and boosts your chances of success.
Here's the simple timeline:
- Right Now: Contact Tax A Sured.
- From October 13, 2025: Applications will be open for submission.
- By December 31, 2025: The closing date for submission of applications – after that, SARS gets tougher on unpaid debts.
Next Steps: Act Promptly
This program offers a limited opportunity to resolve eligible tax debts on more favourable terms. To ensure eligibility and a smooth application, contact Tax A Sured at 021-139-0180 or info@taxassurance.co.za; their specialists can provide tailored guidance on the process.
DISCLAIMER
Nothing in this article and/or post should be construed as constituting tax advice or a tax opinion. An expert should be consulted for advice based on the facts and circumstances of each transaction/case. Even though great care has been taken to ensure accuracy, Tax A Sured (Pty) Ltd does not accept any responsibility for consequences of decisions taken based on this article and/or post. It remains your own responsibility to consult the relevant primary resources when taking a decision.