Tax Refunds - It's Easy & Fun Getting Money Back from the TAX Man - I love it:

You may claim VAT refunds even before leaving South Africa, which can improve your cashflow and reduce your hassle factor at the airport.

Who can Claim?
Non-resident holidaymakers and businesspersons visiting South Africa are entitled to claim VAT refunds on purchases exceeding R 250.00 for goods intended for export within 90 days of purchase.

Important Information:

• The maximum immediate refund given by cheque is ZAR 3,000. Higher claims, or claims requiring an audit are paid by post later.
  
• Goods consumed in South Africa or services rendered in the country do not qualify for VAT refunds.

You must:

• submit original Tax Invoices for refunds.
  
• Present your goods for inspection upon departure, or,
  
• Export those goods within 90 days of the date of purchase and the claim lodged within 3 months from the date of export.
  
• An administration fee of 1.5% of the inclusive value of the claim will be deducted, subject to a minimum of R 10.00 and a maximum of R 250.00.
  
• Diplomats have special allowances. You should contact your Embassy for details of the applicable refund allowances.
  
• Special provisions apply to antiques, 2nd hand goods and registered goods.

How to Claim your Tax Refund

• Identify yourself as a tourist to a shop assistant when making a purchase.
  
• Request a Tax Invoice for the goods you purchased.
  
• Check the invoice for these criterion -
• VAT Tax Invoice must contain all this information:
  • The words "Tax Invoice" printed clearly upon it.
    
  • A Tax Invoice number
    
  • A VAT Registration number
    
  • Date of Issue of the Tax Invoice
    
  • Seller's name and address
    
  • Buyer's name and address
    
  • Full description of the goods purchased
    
  • The cost of the goods expressed in ZAR
    
  • The amount of VAT charged, alternately, a declaration that VAT is included in the price and what rate of tax was charged.

For Additional Information

Contact: VAT Refund Administrator (Pty) Ltd
Postal Address: P.O. Box 107; Johannesburg International Airport
Postal code: 1627
Telephone: +27 (0)11 394 - 1117
Facsimile: +27 (0)11 394 - 1430
E-Mail: info@taxrefunds.co.za