VAT Fundamentals - The Basics you must know Self-Study Course

This course gives a practical, beginner-friendly introduction to Value-Added Tax (VAT) in South Africa. It explains how VAT works in real life (output VAT vs input VAT), when a business must register, what can and can’t be claimed, how VAT invoices work, and what SARS expects when you submit your VAT201 and pay over VAT. It’s designed to help learners understand VAT well enough to price correctly, invoice correctly, and avoid common compliance mistakes.

Who will benefit:

• Small business owners and entrepreneurs (new to VAT)
• Freelancers/contractors approaching the VAT threshold
• Bookkeepers, junior accountants, and admin staff handling VAT processing
• Anyone who needs a clear “VAT 101” before moving into VAT problem areas (imports, apportionment, adjustments)

Topics Discussed:

• What VAT Is and How It Actually Works
• Key VAT Concepts You Must Know
• VAT Rates in Practice
• When Must You Register for VAT?
• VAT Registration Choices and “Vendor Setup” Basics
• Output VAT — Charging VAT Correctly
• Input VAT — Claiming VAT Correctly
• VAT Invoices and Documentation That Protect You
• VAT201 Returns and Payment Deadlines
• Common VAT Mistakes and Quick Fixes