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VAT201: How to Complete It

Short answer: A VAT201 declares the output VAT you charged on sales and the input VAT you paid on business costs backed by valid tax invoices; you pay SARS the difference, or claim it back. Most small vendors file every two months on eFiling.

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Amount (R) This amount

An estimate, worked out in your browser. Nothing you type is sent anywhere or saved.

How it works

Add up the VAT on your sales for the period (output VAT).
Add up the VAT on business costs backed by valid tax invoices (input VAT). Send slips on WhatsApp and this is kept for you.
Capture both on the VAT201 on eFiling and pay or claim the difference by the due date.

Do it on WhatsApp

Once you are set up, just say: "how much VAT can I claim"

Do it on WhatsApp OptiTax, from R99 a month

Frequently asked questions

When is the VAT201 due?

For eFiling, the last business day of the month after the period ends. Manual submissions are due by the 25th. Check your own category on eFiling.

What makes an input VAT claim valid?

A valid tax invoice from a VAT vendor. See valid tax invoice requirements.

Does OptiTax submit my VAT201?

No. It tells you how much VAT you can claim for any period from your slips. You or your accountant submit on eFiling.

VAT Calculator South Africa (15%)Add or remove 15% South African VAT from any amount. Excluding VAT, the VAT, and including VAT, worked out in your browser.EMP201 Due DateWhen the EMP201 and payment are due: the 7th of the next month, or the last business day before it when the 7th is a weekend or public holiday.Income Statement for a Small Business (South Africa)Get a small business income statement (profit and loss) for any number of months from your slips and bank statements, on WhatsApp, with a PDF.

All tools and answers

General information and estimates, not tax advice. OptiTax prepares and organises; you or your registered tax practitioner submit to SARS. Last checked 19/10/2026.