Wednesday 25 April 2012


Application for a Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC)

A tax clearance certificate (TCC) is issued by SARS to validate the tax status of a taxpayer.

On receipt of a completed TCC application, SARS will check its records regarding the taxpayer.

If the taxpayer’s tax affairs are in order SARS will then certify that the taxpayer named on the TCC has filed all required returns and declarations and has paid all taxes, penalties and interest due as at the date the TCC is issued.

A TCC application may be required in respect of:

  • Tenders – when applying for a tender or bid advertised
  • Good standing - to confirm that the applicant is tax compliant
  • Foreign investment allowance (FIA)
  • Emigration.

A TCC will only be issued by SARS where the following requirements have been met:

  • The taxpayer must have registered for an Income Tax reference number prior to applying for a TCC.
  • No outstanding debt for all taxes (including Secondary Tax on Companies (STC), Administrative Penalties and Employees’ Tax).
  • Any deferred arrangements made are being adhered to.
  • All returns and/or declarations must be up to date and in the process of being assessed by SARS.
  • All tax reference numbers must be active and correct, e.g. the tax reference number must not be de-registered or suspended on the SARS system.
  • The registration details on the TCC01 must correspond with the information on the SARS systems.

Please note: A TCC is only valid for one year from the date of issue in respect of a tender and/or good standing, provided the taxpayer remains compliant with SARS requirements.

A taxpayer may apply for a TCC through one of the following channels:

  • Completing the applicable application form and submitting it at the nearest SARS branch
  • An application for a FIA or emigration TCC must be submitted at a SARS branch.
  • Completing the applicable application form and submitting it to SARS by post or placing it in the SARS drop-box.
  • Completing and submitting the application for a tender or good standing TCC on the SARS eFiling site www.sarsefiling.co.za.

For further information on how to apply for a TCC, consult the following guides available on the SARS website www.sars.gov.za > All publications > Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC):

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