Accountants, lawyers, consultants, IT services, and other professional service firms in South Africa.
Use the VAT CalculatorProfessional services firms in South Africa — including accountants, lawyers, consultants, and IT service providers — operate in a knowledge-driven economy where staff costs are the single largest expense. Profitability is tightly linked to utilisation rates (billable vs total hours). Most professional services are standard-rated for VAT at 15%, with the exception of certain financial services that may be exempt.
Our free vat calculator is tailored specifically for professional services businesses operating in South Africa. Below you'll find industry-specific tips, benchmarks, and common mistakes to help you get accurate results and make better financial decisions.
Industry-specific guidance to help you get accurate results
All professional services are standard-rated at 15%
Time-based billing: VAT applies to the full invoiced amount
Disbursements recharged at cost may be zero-rated if properly structured
Financial and tax mistakes frequently made by professional services businesses in South Africa
Not tracking billable vs non-billable hours, leading to inaccurate profitability analysis
Failing to charge VAT on disbursements that are recharged with a markup
Underbudgeting for 13th cheque and annual bonus provisions
Not claiming home office deductions when staff work from home regularly
Ignoring the SDL (Skills Development Levy) of 1% on total payroll
How does your professional services business compare?
Typical range for professional services
Typical range for professional services
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Common questions about vat calculator for professional services in South Africa
Accounter provides free South African business calculators for VAT, PAYE, tax, and more.
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