How to Submit a Company Tax Return on CIPC or eFiling

Submitting a company tax return is a crucial process for businesses in South Africa to comply with the country's tax laws. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) allows businesses to file their tax returns electronically through eFiling or through the CIPC (Companies and Intellectual Property Commission) system. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to submit a company tax return via these two platforms.

Step 1: Register on eFiling

Before you can submit a tax return, your company must be registered with SARS for tax purposes. If you haven't done this already, follow these steps:

1. Visit the SARS eFiling website: Go to SARS eFiling.
2. Create an eFiling account: If your company isn’t registered, you’ll need to create an account with SARS. You’ll need the company’s registration number and other relevant details.
3. Obtain a tax reference number: Once your business is registered, you’ll be issued a tax reference number, which is essential for filing your returns.

Step 2: Access Your eFiling Dashboard

Once registered, you can access your SARS eFiling dashboard. Follow these steps:

1. Log in to eFiling: Use your username and password to log into the SARS eFiling portal.
2. Navigate to the "Returns" section: Select the relevant tax type (usually Income Tax for companies) and choose the return period you need to submit.

Step 3: Complete Your Company Tax Return

On the eFiling platform, complete the required fields on the ITR14 form (Income Tax Return for Companies). This form captures your company's earnings, deductions, and tax liability. Ensure you have your financial statements ready, including:

• Profit and Loss Statement
• Balance Sheet
• Taxable Income Calculation
• VAT (if applicable)

The platform will guide you through completing the form, and you will be able to save your progress and return to it later if needed.

Step 4: Submit the Tax Return

Once you have completed the form and verified all the details, submit it electronically via the SARS eFiling platform. Make sure that all your documents are uploaded, and double-check that everything is accurate before submission.

Step 5: Payment (if applicable)

After your tax return is submitted, SARS will process it and inform you of your tax liability. If you owe tax, you will be required to make a payment. This can also be done via the eFiling platform.

How to File via CIPC

The CIPC system mainly handles company registration and certain statutory filings but does not process company tax returns directly. However, CIPC provides certain integrated services, such as updating your company information, which is required by SARS for tax purposes.

• Register your company on the CIPC website www.cipc.co.za if you haven’t already.
• Update your company’s details on CIPC, ensuring your registered information matches what is on file with SARS.
• CIPC facilitates the submission of annual returns but not tax filings directly. Tax filings are still managed via the SARS eFiling system.

Step 6: Keep Track of Your Filing Status

After submission, you can check the status of your company tax return by logging into SARS eFiling. SARS will send notifications regarding assessments and refunds.

Important Tips

• Deadlines: Ensure you are aware of the tax deadlines, which can vary based on your company’s year-end date.
• Professional Assistance: If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, it’s advisable to consult a tax professional or accountant.
• Record Keeping: Always keep detailed financial records and tax documents for at least five years, as SARS can request them for audits.

By submitting your company tax return on time and accurately, you can avoid penalties and ensure that your business remains compliant with South African tax regulations.