Calculate dividends withholding tax (DWT) at the standard 20% rate or reduced DTA rates. See your net dividend after tax for South African shareholders.
Calculate dividends withholding tax at the standard 20% rate or reduced DTA rates in seconds
Select reduced withholding rates for shareholders in countries with Double Taxation Agreements
Determine if you qualify for DWT exemption as a SA company, retirement fund, or PBO
Enter your dividend details to calculate withholding tax
Enter your gross dividend to see the withholding tax and net payout
Reduced withholding tax rates for shareholders in countries with DTAs with South Africa
| Country | DWT Rate | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 5% - 15% | 5% if ≥10% shareholding, 15% otherwise |
| United States | 5% - 15% | 5% if ≥10% shareholding, 15% otherwise |
| Netherlands | 5% - 10% | 5% if ≥10% shareholding, 10% otherwise |
| Mauritius | 5% - 15% | 5% if ≥10% shareholding, 15% otherwise |
| Germany | 7.5% - 15% | 7.5% if ≥25% shareholding, 15% otherwise |
| Canada | 5% - 15% | 5% if ≥10% shareholding, 15% otherwise |
Standard rate comparison:
Standard DWT rate: 20% on all dividends declared by SA companies
DTA benefit: Shareholders in treaty countries may claim a reduced rate by submitting a declaration
The following beneficial owners are exempt from dividends withholding tax
SA Resident Companies
Inter-company dividends between South African resident companies are fully exempt from DWT
Retirement Funds
Pension funds, provident funds, and retirement annuity funds registered in South Africa are exempt
Public Benefit Organisations (PBOs)
Section 30 approved public benefit organisations are exempt from DWT on dividends received
Micro Businesses Under Turnover Tax
Qualifying micro businesses registered for turnover tax are exempt from DWT
Government & Exempt Entities
National, provincial and local government, as well as certain exempt entities listed in Section 10(1)
Important:
To claim an exemption, the beneficial owner must submit a written declaration and undertaking to the company paying the dividend before the dividend is paid. Without this declaration, the company must withhold DWT at the standard 20% rate.
Common questions about dividends withholding tax in South Africa
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Accounter does not provide accounting, tax, business or legal advice. This calculator has been provided for information purposes only. You should consult your own professional advisors for advice directly relating to your business.