/ 1 February 2008

Sars simplifies VAT registration

Value-Added Tax (VAT) registration would be easier from this month, the South African Revenue Service (Sars) said on Friday.

Sars said the new VAT-registration process reduced the paperwork required for registration and provided for the instant issuing of VAT registration numbers over the counter at Sars branches.

The new application form has been reduced from a seven-page document to four pages, with only two supporting documents — a copy of identity and proof of banking details — now being required instead of the previous twelve.

The new VAT 101 registration form, along with guidelines for its completion, is available at any Sars branch or from www.sars.gov.za.

Sars said it would still accept the old forms until March 31 this year. — Sapa