How to File Your Business Taxes (2026)

Filing business tax returns with SARS is mandatory for all businesses in South Africa. Understanding the tax filing process, requirements, and deadlines helps you file returns correctly and on time. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about filing business taxes.

Tax Filing Requirements

Who Must File

Must File Tax Returns:

• All registered companies
• Sole proprietors
• Partnerships
• Trusts (if applicable)
• All business entities

Filing Obligation:

• Annual requirement
• Cannot be skipped
• Must file on time
• Required for compliance

Filing Deadlines

Important Dates

Company Tax Returns:

• Filing Deadline: Within 12 months of year-end
• Year-End: Typically 28/29 February
• Example: Year-end 28 Feb, file by 28 Feb following year
• Late Filing: Penalties apply

Provisional Tax:

• First payment: End of 6 months
• Second payment: End of tax year
• Top-up: 7 months after year-end

Filing Process

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Gather Information

• Income records
• Expense records
• Receipts and invoices
• Bank statements
• Financial statements
• Supporting documents

Step 2: Prepare Financial Statements

• Income statement
• Balance sheet
• Cash flow statement (if required)
• Ensure accuracy
• Review statements

Step 3: Calculate Taxable Income

• Calculate business income
• Deduct allowable expenses
• Calculate taxable profit
• Apply tax rates
• Calculate tax liability

Step 4: Log in to SARS eFiling

• Access SARS eFiling
• Log in with credentials
• Navigate to tax returns section
• Select tax year and return type

Step 5: Complete Tax Return

• Enter business information
• Enter income details
• Enter expense details
• Claim deductions
• Calculate tax liability
• Review all information

Step 6: Submit Tax Return

• Review return carefully
• Verify all information
• Submit return
• Receive confirmation
• Pay any tax due

Step 7: Pay Tax (If Applicable)

• Pay tax liability
• Pay by deadline
• Use eFiling or bank
• Keep payment receipt

Required Documents

Documentation Needed

Financial Documents:

• Financial statements
• Income records
• Expense records
• Bank statements
• Receipts and invoices

Supporting Documents:

• Depreciation schedules
• Asset registers
• Loan agreements
• Lease agreements
• Other supporting documents

eFiling vs Manual Filing

Filing Methods

eFiling (Recommended):

• Available 24/7
• Faster processing
• Instant confirmation
• More convenient
• Preferred method

Manual Filing:

• Complete paper return
• Submit to SARS branch
• Longer processing
• Less convenient
• Not recommended

Common Issues

Filing Problems

Issue: Missing Information

• Gather all required documents
• Complete all sections
• Verify information
• Ensure accuracy

Issue: Calculation Errors

• Verify calculations
• Check tax rates
• Review deductions
• Correct errors
• Resubmit if needed

Issue: Late Filing

• File as soon as possible
• Pay late filing penalties
• Avoid further delays
• Contact SARS if needed

Tips for Filing

Best Practices

1. Prepare Early: Gather documents before deadline
2. Keep Records: Maintain accurate records throughout year
3. File on Time: Submit by deadline
4. Verify Information: Check all details accuracy
5. Use eFiling: File online for convenience
6. Pay on Time: Pay any tax due promptly

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I file business taxes?

Gather financial information, prepare financial statements, calculate taxable income, log in to SARS eFiling, complete tax return, submit return, and pay any tax due. File within 12 months of year-end.

When are business tax returns due?

Company tax returns are due within 12 months of year-end (typically 28/29 February). File by the deadline to avoid penalties.

What documents do I need to file taxes?

Required documents include: financial statements, income records, expense records, bank statements, receipts, invoices, depreciation schedules, and other supporting documents.

Can I file taxes online?

Yes, file taxes online through SARS eFiling. Online filing is faster, more convenient, available 24/7, and recommended. You can also file manually at SARS branches.

What happens if I file late?

Late filing results in penalties and interest. File by deadline to avoid penalties. If late, file as soon as possible and pay applicable penalties.

Conclusion

Filing business taxes requires gathering financial information, preparing financial statements, calculating taxable income, completing tax return through SARS eFiling, submitting return, and paying any tax due. File within 12 months of year-end, maintain accurate records, verify all information, use eFiling for convenience, and pay taxes on time. Understanding the tax filing process helps you comply with SARS requirements and file business tax returns successfully in South Africa.