THE VDP PROCESS

As SARS was firing on all cylinders despite the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and resultant lockdown, this is indicative of a competent revenue authority who will only increase their collection efforts as the economy recovers and Sheriffs are allowed to execute on unpaid tax debts. Taxpayers who have undeclared or understated income may be within SARS’ crosshairs. Before SARS pulls the trigger, it is wise for taxpayers to become compliant through the Voluntary Disclosure Programme (“VDP”). Taxpayers may be daunted by the VDP process, as they do not know what it entails.

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VDP PROCESS

STEP 1
Legally privileged consultation to determine suitability for VDP and the way forward.
STEP 2
Chartered accountants will prepare calculations, supported by the taxpayer’s documentation.
STEP 3
The VDP application is prepared and submitted to SARS.
STEP 4
A SARS official is appointed to evaluate the VDP application. The evaluator may raise queries and request additional supporting documentation.
STEP 5
Once the evaluator’s queries have been resolved, VDP returns will be submitted on behalf of the taxpayer. An agreement will then be entered into between SARS and the taxpayer, in which SARS will agree to waive any penalties and agree not to pursue the taxpayer criminally for offences relating to the non-disclosure/understatement of income or tax liabilities.
STEP 6
The taxpayer will pay the outstanding tax liability to SARS in terms of the VDP agreement, and the taxpayer’s affairs will thereafter be regularised.

Our specialised voluntary disclosure tax team and chartered accountants regularly assist taxpayers to make disclosure to SARS under their Voluntary Disclosure Programme, which is regulated under the Tax Administration Act. We are a team of attorneys and any information shared with our attorneys is fully protected by legal professional privilege.

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Kindly note that our offices are closed between 25 December 2024 and 1 January 2025 and as such there will be a delay in our normal expeditious response times. Our teams are taking a short festive season break and will address your query upon their return on Thursday, 2 January 2025.