VAT calculator for South Africa
Add or remove VAT for South Africa in ZAR — preset with the current rates (15%).
Free · Runs in your browser · No sign-up
VAT rates in South Africa (2026)
The standard rate of 15% applies to most goods and services. There is no reduced rate; certain supplies may be exempt or zero-rated. Locally, the tax is called Value-Added Tax (VAT). Registration / small-business threshold: R1 million taxable supplies in 12 months.
Good to know
- VAT registration is compulsory once taxable supplies exceed R1 million in 12 months; voluntary registration is possible above R50,000.
- For supplies of R5,000 or less an abridged tax invoice (without the recipient’s details) is sufficient.
How it’s calculated
VAT is charged as a percentage of the net (pre-tax) price. To add it, multiply the net amount by the rate; to find the net amount inside a tax-inclusive price, divide the gross amount by 1 plus the rate.
A common mistake is to remove VAT by subtracting the rate from the gross price (e.g. 119 − 19% = 96.39). That is wrong — the correct net amount is 119 ÷ 1.19 = 100.
Gross = Net × (1 + rate ÷ 100)VAT = Net × rate ÷ 100Net = Gross ÷ (1 + rate ÷ 100)
Frequently asked questions
How do I add VAT to a price in South Africa?
Multiply the net price by 1.15. For example, ZAR 100.00 plus 15% VAT is ZAR 100.00 × 1.15 = ZAR 115.00.
How do I remove VAT from a gross price in South Africa?
Divide the gross price by 1.15: ZAR 115.00 ÷ 1.15 = ZAR 100.00. The VAT included is ZAR 15.00.
What VAT rates apply in South Africa?
South Africa uses a standard VAT rate of 15%.
Are these VAT rates for South Africa up to date?
The rates were last reviewed in October 2026. Tax rates can change, so confirm with the tax authority before relying on them for filings.
Turn the numbers into an invoice
Create a professional invoice with the right currency and tax in under a minute. Free, private, no sign-up.
Create an invoice for South Africa with VAT prefilledMore free tools
Results are estimates for general information only and are not tax, legal or financial advice.