This course is focused on dealing with SARS on VAT (not general VAT compliance). It walks learners through what typically happens when SARS engages you: pop-up letters and refund delays, verifications and audits, assessments, penalties/interest, fixing mistakes, and the dispute route (objections/appeals/ADR/Tax Board/Tax Court)—including what SARS can ask for, how to respond, and how to manage timelines and escalation paths.
Who will benefit
Bookkeepers and accountants who handle SARS VAT queries and VAT refunds
Business owners and finance managers who receive SARS letters/verification requests
Tax administrators and compliance staff dealing with VAT201 corrections, assessments, and disputes
Anyone wanting a practical “SARS engagement playbook” for VAT audits and disputes
TOPICS DISCUSSED:
How SARS Engages VAT Vendors (and Why)
VAT Refunds, the 21-Business-Day Expectation, and “Pop-Up Letters”
Understanding VAT Audits (Desk vs Refund vs Field vs Integrated)
What Triggers SARS Attention (The Practical Red Flags)
Responding to SARS Requests: Documents, Deadlines, and “Getting the Pack Right”
Made a Mistake? Fixing VAT201s via “Request for Correction”
Penalties & Interest — What SARS Can Impose (and What You Can Do
Remissions — Applying to Reduce Penalties and Interest
Assessments You’ll See from SARS (and What They Mean)
Disputes with SARS — From Reasons to Objection, Appeal, ADR and Escalation
