It’s essential to verify the legitimacy of a tax practitioner before entrusting them with your finances. In South Africa, tax practitioners must meet strict requirements to register and operate legally. Andre Bothma, an experienced tax practitioner, shared his journey and explained the verification process in detail.
What is a Tax Practitioner?
A tax practitioner is a professional authorised to assist individuals and businesses with their tax compliance. To legally practice in South Africa, a tax practitioner must:
- Be a member of a Recognised Controlling Body (RCB), such as the South African Institute of Tax Practitioners (SAIT).
- Be registered with the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
Andre Bothma emphasises:
“Choosing the right RCB is critical as they guide the practitioner’s registration and ensure compliance with industry standards.”
Steps to Verify a Tax Practitioner
- Check Their SARS Registration
Every legitimate tax practitioner is issued a unique SARS Tax Practitioner Number. To verify, you can:- Contact SARS directly via their helpline at 0800 00 7277.
- Use the SARS online practitioner verification tool.
- Confirm Membership with an RCB
Practitioners must belong to an RCB. Common RCBs include:- SAIT (South African Institute of Tax Practitioners).
- SAICA (South African Institute of Chartered Accountants).
- ICBA (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers and Accountants).
“RCBs are critical in maintaining industry integrity. They also handle practitioner applications to SARS, ensuring the necessary qualifications and experience are in place.” - Review Qualifications and Experience
To register with an RCB, practitioners must meet minimum educational and experience requirements. According to Andre:
“Some membership categories require an NQF Level 5 qualification, while others may need postgraduate certifications and up to seven years of experience.” - Ask for Proof of Registration
A professional tax practitioner will readily provide documentation of their registration with SARS and their RCB. Be cautious if they hesitate or cannot produce evidence.
Why Verification Matters
Engaging an unregistered practitioner can expose you to financial risks, such as incorrect tax filings, penalties, or even fraud. SARS has stringent laws, and non-compliance can result in severe consequences for both the taxpayer and the practitioner.
Practical Tips from Andre Bothma
- “Always request the practitioner’s SARS number upfront and verify it before proceeding with any service agreements.”
- “Membership with a recognised body adds credibility, as they enforce ethical practices and provide ongoing training.”
Verifying a tax practitioner may take a few minutes, but it ensures that you’re dealing with a qualified and trustworthy professional. For any concerns, SARS and recognised bodies like SAIT are there to guide you.