South Africa Invoice Calculator with VAT
Calculate invoice totals with line items, discounts, and 15% South African VAT.
A valid South African tax invoice must include your VAT registration number, the invoice date, and a sequential invoice number.
VAT-registered vendors must charge 15% VAT on taxable supplies and issue tax invoices.
For invoices under R5,000 (incl. VAT), an abridged tax invoice is acceptable.
Retain copies of all invoices for 5 years as required by SARS.
What your invoices need to include and how to handle VAT on invoices
What must a South African invoice include?
A valid tax invoice must include: your name and address, your VAT registration number (if registered), the customer's name and address, the invoice date and a unique invoice number, a description of goods or services, the quantity and price, the VAT amount (shown separately), and the total including VAT. Without these details, your client cannot claim VAT input credits.
Do I need to charge VAT on my invoices?
Only if you are VAT-registered. You must register if your taxable turnover exceeds R1 million in a 12-month period. Voluntary registration is possible above R50,000. If you are not VAT-registered, do not show VAT on your invoices — simply state the total amount. Charging VAT without being registered is illegal and can result in penalties.
How do I calculate VAT on an invoice?
South African VAT is 15%. To add VAT: multiply the net amount by 1.15. A R10,000 service becomes R11,500 including VAT. To extract VAT from an inclusive amount: multiply by 15/115. From R11,500 inclusive, the VAT portion is R1,500 and the net amount is R10,000. Always show the VAT amount separately on your invoice.
What is the difference between a tax invoice and a regular invoice?
A tax invoice is issued by a VAT-registered supplier and includes the VAT registration number and VAT amount. It allows the recipient to claim input VAT. A regular invoice (from a non-VAT-registered supplier) does not include VAT details. For purchases under R5,000, a simplified tax invoice (with fewer details) is acceptable.
How long do clients have to pay my invoice?
Payment terms are set by agreement between you and your client. Common terms in South Africa are 30 days from invoice date. Some large corporations pay on 60 or 90 day terms. Small businesses often negotiate 14-day or 7-day terms. Late payment is a widespread problem — the Department of Trade and Industry recommends 30-day terms and prompt payment practices.
What can I do if a client does not pay?
Start with a friendly reminder, then send a formal letter of demand giving 7 days to pay. If still unpaid, you can use the Magistrate's Court for claims up to R400,000 or the Small Claims Court for claims up to R20,000 (no lawyer needed). You can also hand over to a debt collector or list the client with a credit bureau. Keep all invoices and proof of delivery as evidence.
How do I invoice foreign clients?
You can invoice in any currency, but SARS requires you to convert amounts to Rand for tax purposes using the exchange rate on the date of supply. Services exported to foreign clients are zero-rated for VAT (0% VAT) if the services are used outside South Africa. You still need to include VAT details on the invoice showing 0% VAT.
SARS-Aligned: Based on 2025 SARS rates and thresholds. For personal advice, speak to a qualified tax practitioner.
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Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on current HMRC rates and thresholds for the 2025/26 tax year. It does not constitute professional tax, financial, or legal advice. Your actual liability may differ depending on your individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified accountant or tax adviser before making financial decisions. Read our terms