VAT Vendor Search Frequently Asked Questions

What is the VAT Vendor Search Function?

The VAT Vendor Search function is an online Website search application made available for use by business enterprises, members of the public, tourists and government departments.

Why use this application?

This application is to be used to verify whether persons who supply goods and/or services are registered for VAT and to encourage reporting of potential tax evaders.

Why can't I find the company I'm looking for even though I know it exists?

Firstly, it may be that the company is not required to be registered for VAT, i.e. its annual turnover does not exceed the R1 000 000 threshold OR the company is liable to be registered but may be evading value-added tax.

Secondly, you may have used an incorrect trading name or VAT number in the Search function or you may have incorrectly typed in the above details.

I have received a Tax Invoice from a company, but the name of the company cannot be found in the search, I have entered the name exactly as it appears on the Tax Invoice, without success. What does this mean?

First make sure that you entered the trading name, and not the legal name. Otherwise, this means that there is a very likely possibility that the company is not registered for VAT, whether legally or illegally. It could also be that the company has not updated its information with SARS in respect of its correct trade or legal name of the company and the tax invoices the company issues may be rejected for input tax or refund purposes.

It is suspected that I have received a tax invoice from an unregistered company. What do I do now?

After using the VAT Vendor Search application to verify the company’s registration status without success, you may choose to provide this information to SARS by either:

    • Completing the Feedback Form which will then be e-mailed to SARS or,
    • Calling the SARS HOTLINE 0800 00 2870 to report your suspicion or,
    • Providing this information to the compliance section at your local office of SARS or,
    • Obtain further information from the company that supplied you with the goods or services e.g. a copy of its VAT registration certificate.

May I claim input tax or a refund on a tax invoice, if the company that gave it to me is not registered?

The input tax or refund claim may be permitted, subject to an investigation by SARS. It is therefore, in your own interest to inform SARS so that appropriate action can be taken to validate your claim.