This episode explains SARS’s intensified enforcement on trusts, the risk that many trusts remain unregistered, and the severe tax and personal liabilities trustees can face. It outlines key compliance requirements — SARS registration, annual ITR12T and IT3T filings, and accurate record keeping — and gives practical steps such as audits, trustee education, and using trust-specific accounting to stay compliant.

Vidyanth Bhola breaks down outright purchases, instalment/hire-purchase agreements and leases, explaining how each is recorded in the books, treated for tax in South Africa, and how they affect cash flow. Short examples and practical tips help business owners decide between preserving cash, owning assets, or maximizing tax and interest deductions.

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to podcast number two, season two. I thought that in this season, I would introduce the video. So it's something new to me, and I'm giving it my first shot. So please, please bear with me if it doesn't come out right. As accountants, normally accountants are not subject to change, but I'm one who's willing to try new things and also evolve. Just like VHA, we're always evolving and trying to get better at what we do for the client and serve the client. So let's get right in. The topic for this podcast is tax benefits you might not know about. So today we're talking about something that could literally put more money back in your pocket. Tax benefits that you do not know about. But here's the thing. Your accountant can't claim what they don't know about. So today, I'm going to walk you through a few opportunities you should absolutely tell your accountant about so you can get the correct tax treatment and maybe even lower your tax bill. The first item I'd like to look at is research and development allowance. If you're creating new products, software, processes, even if you are a small business, you might qualify for the research and development allowance. It lets you deduct 150% of the qualifying costs from your taxable income. Now, you do need approval from the Department of Science and Innovation, but it's worth checking if you qualify. So if you have been innovating, mention it to your accountant. Number two is the Learnership Tax Incentives. This one I quite like. This one's especially useful if you are investing in training with your staff. If you hire learners through a registered learnership, you can claim an additional deduction of up to R80,000 per learner or R120,000 for learners with disabilities. That's on top of the training that you've already paid for. The third one, home office claims. Since COVID, more people work from home, But businesses still forget you can claim certain expenses for home offices Things like rent, internet and electricity may be deductible or a portion they're off Number four, wear and tear on assets Everyone remembers to claim for big assets such as machinery But what about the small stuff? Your laptops, printers, cell phones and even some furniture These qualify for wear and tear allowances. And if the item costs less than 7,000 rand, you can often write it off completely in the year you buy it. You heard right, folks? So if you buy an asset, regardless of when you purchase it, in the year of assessment, you can write off the full value of the asset, provided it's under 7,000 rand in value. Point number five, small business corporation rates. So this is something that I've seen common that tax practitioners miss and accountants. When we take over new clients from an outgoing accountant, we notice that 9 out of 10 times the accountant hasn't applied his mind to the situation and has not screened the particular taxpayer or client for small business corporation rates. So what is the small business corporation rates? If your turnover is under a certain threshold and you meet a few conditions, you might qualify for small business corporation tax rates. And these are much lower than the standard 27% company rate. A lot of business owners don't even realize they qualify. So it's worth asking your accountant to check because as I said sometimes, they don't check. Point number six, bad debts written off. If you have customers who simply aren't going to pay, those debts can sometimes be written off and can reduce your taxable income. But it's important to do it in the right year and keep proper records. So those are just a few examples, folks. But remember, your accountant is only as powerful as the information you give to them. If you've made an unusual purchase, investing in training, starting a new project, or tried something new in your business, mention it. Even if you think it's not tax-related, one simple conversation could save yo

Good afternoon, everyone. It's Vidyanth Bhola, your host for VHA Accounting Solutions podcast number three. This week, we'll be speaking about the going concern assumption. I hope the previous two podcasts were informative. I haven't received feedback from anyone. I would really like to receive feedback and also a list of topics that maybe you guys would like us to screen on these podcasts. As we go on, as I said, it will become more interactive. There'll be more colleagues from VHA Accounting joining our podcast. If you have any suggestions or any topics you'd like us to cover, please email me directly at vidyant@vhaaccounting.com. In today's podcast, we will delve into why the going concern assumption is critical for businesses. This principle is essential for preparing financial statements, as it assumes that the entity will continue its operations for the foreseeable future, usually the next 12 months. We'll discuss what happens if management has concerns about the going concern status and the necessary disclosures that must be made if the business is not a going concern. We'll also explore how often this assessment needs to be conducted, typically at the end of each financial year, and what conditions might indicate going concern issues. Examples include financial challenges like net liability positions, excessive reliance on short-term borrowings, and negative operating cash flows, as well as operational issues like management intentions to liquidate, loss of key markets, and labor difficulties. This episode aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the going concern assumption, its significance, and the implications for business owners and stakeholders. We hope you find this information valuable and look forward to your feedback and suggestions for future topics.

Welcome to episode 6 of the VHA Accounting Podcast! In this episode, we delve into the various types of legal entities available for businesses in South Africa. We'll explore the pros and cons of each entity type to help you make informed decisions about the best structure for your business.We start by examining the simplest form of business, the sole proprietorship. While offering complete control and easy setup, it also presents significant personal liability risks. Next, we discuss partnerships, which allow for shared expertise and financial burdens, but come with their own complexities and shared liabilities.The episode then shifts focus to more structured entities like the Pty Ltd company. This popular business form offers separate legal status and limited liability for shareholders, though it requires adherence to legal standards. We also cover public companies, highlighting their ability to raise capital through public shares but noting the increased complexity and disclosure requirements.We conclude with a look at trusts, which provide asset protection and manageable legal requirements but involve complex tax considerations. Finally, we touch on the different accounting frameworks in South Africa, including IFRS and IFRS for SMEs, and how they apply to various business entities.Join us as we navigate these crucial decisions and offer insights to support your business journey. For more information and guidance, visit our website and connect with us on social media. Don't forget to subscribe for future episodes!

In this final part of the series, Vidyanth Bhola walks through how income tax, capital gains tax (CGT) and donations tax affect a deceased estate in South Africa, and what executors must do when handling final returns and estate tax obligations. Learn key rules like the deemed disposal on death, primary residence CGT relief, donations tax thresholds, and practical estate-planning tips — wills, trusts, beneficiary nominations and planning for liquidity to protect your heirs.

Welcome to this episode of our podcast series, where we delve into the complexities of estate management in South Africa. In this second installment, we examine the differences between intestate and testate succession, exploring what happens when someone passes away without a valid will. We also discuss the crucial roles of the Master of the High Court and the executor in ensuring that estates are settled according to the law, and we break down executor's fees, estate duty, and other taxes that impact estate administration. This episode aims to provide valuable insights for anyone planning their estate or involved in estate administration. Stay tuned for Part 3, where we'll explore tax strategies and smart planning tips to minimize your estate's tax exposure.

Deceased Estates in South Africa can be a complex and daunting topic, but fear not! Join CEO Vidyanth Bhola on a thrilling journey through the ins and outs of managing deceased estates in South Africa. Get ready to understand the legal processes governing deceased estates, the impact of different types of marriages, and the importance of having a valid will. Tune in for expert insights and guidance to unravel the mysteries of estate planning and probate. Don’t miss out on this informative podcast series on VHA Accounting Solutions Inc. - where learning meets entertainment! 🎙️📑💼

In this episode of the VHA podcast, we dive into the significant updates from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the launch of its new two-port system. The rollout, effective since September 1, 2024, demonstrates efficiency with over 1.1 million approved tax directives, facilitating swift fund releases. Despite some rejections due to incorrect details, SARS has seen an impressive uptake of its digital services, including real-time calculators and online tax queries. The episode emphasizes the push towards digital channels, highlighting their role in simplifying tax processes for citizens. Additionally, we discuss crucial reminders for taxpayers, such as the importance of accurate personal details and managing outstanding debts to avoid payout delays. With taxes on pension and retirement fund withdrawals ranging from 18% to 45%, understanding these nuances becomes vital. Furthermore, we spotlight SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter's stern warning against income misreporting, shedding light on the agency's stringent measures against tax evasion. This episode serves as a crucial reminder to stay informed and compliant with tax regulations using SARS’s convenient digital tools.

In this episode, host Vidyan Pola delves into the critical landscape of cryptocurrency compliance in South Africa. With the South African Revenue Service (SARS) announcing a major clampdown on undeclared crypto assets, the episode explores the implications of this for crypto holders across the globe. The dialogue unpacks the misconceptions about crypto profits being exempt from South African taxes and highlights the severe penalties of non-compliance, including potential jail time.The episode further explains how crypto assets are classified under the Income Tax Act and the evolving rules surrounding their taxation. It also sheds light on the Voluntary Disclosure Program (VDP) offered by SARS, which provides a lifeline for those with undeclared crypto profits to come clean. Tune in to understand why staying informed and compliant with crypto regulations is now more crucial than ever for South African taxpayers in the digital currency space.

Join us in this episode as Vidyanth Bhola from VHA Accounting Solutions delves into the transformative potential of DEXT, a powerful suite of finance automation tools. If you're overwhelmed with paperwork or manual data entry, discover how DEXT can simplify your financial workflows. From snapping photos of receipts to seamless integration with leading accounting software, DEXT offers a streamlined solution for accurate and efficient financial management. Explore the benefits of real-time data tracking, reduced errors, and proactive financial decision-making, all made possible by DEXT's advanced OCR technology. Whether you're an accountant, finance professional, or business owner, learn how DEXT can save you time, enhance efficiency, and improve accuracy in managing expenses, invoices, and more. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to integrating DEXT into your financial routine, and unlock new opportunities for growth and success.

In this episode, we delve into the recent amendments to South Africa's Carbon Tax Act, a crucial statute in combating climate change. With an update aligning the Act to the greenhouse gas emissions guidelines, businesses must now adjust their reporting systems in line with the new tier 2 emission factors effective from January 2024. The episode also addresses the Renewable Energy Premium Deduction, now extended to reinforce compliance amidst ESCOM's restructuring, allowing greater flexibility in claiming deductions under new power agreements.Listeners will gain insights into the expanded carbon offset regulations, where the threshold for qualifying renewable energy projects has doubled. Find out how these statutory changes encourage larger investments in renewable initiatives, enhancing green energy infrastructure. This episode is essential for businesses in South Africa to understand the new frameworks affecting their tax liabilities and strategies towards sustainable development.

Welcome to Podcast Number 6 of the VHA Accounting Podcast, where Vidyan Bola delves into the various types of legal entities in South Africa. In this episode, listeners will gain insights into the advantages and disadvantages of different business structures, helping entrepreneurs make informed decisions about their business setups. The episode kicks off with an exploration of the simplest business form: the sole proprietorship. Vidyan explains how a sole proprietor operates, highlighting the ease of setup and total control. However, he also cautions about the potential risks and liabilities involved. Moving on, the discussion shifts to partnerships, emphasizing the shared benefits of pooled resources and expertise, along with the complexities that arise when adding or removing partners. The podcast then examines the Pty Ltd Company, a popular choice for many businesses due to its status as a separate legal entity. Vidyan outlines the benefits of limited liability and flexibility in shareholder changes, while also noting the legal requirements and challenges involved. Listeners will also learn about public companies and the unique opportunities they offer for raising capital through public stock offerings, along with the challenges of increased regulatory scrutiny. The episode concludes with a look at trading through trusts, distinguishing between inter-vivo and testamentary trusts, and discussing their legal and tax implications. Vidyan wraps up by touching on financial reporting frameworks in South Africa, guiding listeners on the appropriate standards for their chosen entity type. Join us as we unravel the complexities of legal entities in South Africa, offering guidance to help you navigate your business journey effectively. Don't forget to subscribe to the VHA Accounting Podcast for more insightful episodes!

Welcome to the VHA Accounting Solutions Podcast, your go-to source for all things tax and accounting. In this episode, host Vidyanth Bhola delves into the proposed VAT amendments for 2024, which are packed with significant changes that could impact businesses in a big way. First, we explore the proposed changes to the deduction of input tax, where rollovers will no longer be allowed, adding complexity to your e-filing process. Then, we move on to the changes in electronic services regulations, which could introduce some confusion for non-resident suppliers. We also discuss the review of the Foreign Donor Funded Projects (FDFP) regime, where implementing agents may see a simplification in their VAT registrations. Next, we look at VAT relief for non-resident lessors and the delay in its implementation until 2025. The episode continues with clarifications on VAT exemptions for educational services and the introduction of VAT exemptions for Moorabah finance arrangements, providing clear guidelines for Sharia-compliant financing. Lastly, we touch on the proposed regulations for the casino industry, aiming to simplify VAT reporting on gross gaming revenue. These proposed VAT amendments are significant and have the potential to impact a wide range of industries. We urge all taxpayers to carefully consider these changes. For more information, visit our website at www.vhaaccounting.co.za and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more updates. Tune in now!

Welcome to VHA's podcast, hosted by Vidyanth Bhola, CEO of VHA Accounting Solutions. In this episode, we delve into the topic of beneficial ownership, a critical concept in understanding who truly controls or benefits from a company in South Africa. This episode aims to clarify common questions around this topic, particularly focusing on whether minors can be beneficial owners in South African companies. Vidyanth Bhola explains the legal definition of minors in South Africa, their capacity to own shares, and the role of legal guardians or trustees in managing their interests. The episode also covers the importance of compliance with regulations to prevent financial crimes. Tune in to learn about the benefits and challenges associated with minors being beneficial owners, including wealth accumulation and the complexities of legal capacity. For those needing assistance, VHA Accounting Solutions offers specialized services to help navigate these regulations. Visit our website at www.vhaaccounting.co.za to book a free consultation. Join us as we break down this complex topic to help company owners and families make informed decisions about wealth management and business governance. Until next time, stay safe and enjoy the sports on TV. This is Vidyanth Bhola, signing out.

Dive into the word of Estate planning, and how you can benefit from a good Estate plan. 

Welcome to VHA's podcast! In this episode, your host Vidyanth Bhola delves into the crucial topic of ethics in accounting, with a particular focus on the code of professional conduct. Discover why integrity, transparency, and honesty are essential in the accounting profession, especially when it comes to marketing and professional relationships between firms. Learn about the guidelines set by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and how they impact how accounting firms present themselves to the public. Vidyanth shares valuable insights on handling competitive tensions with professionalism and the importance of maintaining the reputation of the profession as a whole. Whether you're a seasoned accountant or just starting out, this episode offers essential advice on navigating ethical challenges in your practice. Join us for this much-anticipated discussion and stay on the right side of both the law and ethical practice. Feel free to leave your comments and questions at the end of the podcast. Until next time, remember: ethical accounting is about trust, respect, and professionalism.

Good afternoon, it's Vidyanth Bhola, your host for the VHA podcast, podcast number seven. I'd like to thank everyone for the lovely feedback that I've been getting about the podcast that I've been doing. I know the podcasts are not perfect, but as I said, they'll be getting better and better with time. In today's episode, we are diving into a crucial aspect of corporate governance in South Africa, The Public Interest Score, or PIS as it's known. This matrix is a key for any company operating within the country as it determines compliance obligations and how a business should handle its regulatory duties. We'll break down what the Public Interest Score is, how it is calculated, and the implications it can have on your company's compliance needs. The PIS is a measure used to gauge the level of public interest in a company, ensuring that businesses with a significant social and economic footprint adhere to strict governance and transparency standards. The episode also details how the PIS is calculated annually based on the number of employees, third-party liabilities, turnover, and beneficial shareholders. We discuss the compliance requirements based on different PIS ranges and the importance of monitoring your public interest score to ensure your company meets its regulatory obligations and maintains strong corporate governance practices. Stay informed and proactive about your PIS to keep your company compliant and uphold high standards of governance. Until next time, this is Vidyan Pola, your host. I look forward to my next podcast which will focus on professional conduct and how to conduct yourself as a professional accountant or chartered accountant. Cheers until next time.