New Business Registration Checklist

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Phase 1: Business Structure

Decide how your business will be legally structured and register it.

Choose a business structure

Sole proprietor, partnership, private company (Pty Ltd), or non-profit.

Reserve company name with CIPC

Submit a name reservation via the CIPC website (R75 fee).

Register with CIPC

Complete company registration and obtain your registration certificate.

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Phase 2: Tax Registration

Register your business with SARS for all applicable tax types.

Register for Income Tax with SARS

Apply for a company income tax reference number via SARS eFiling.

Register for VAT (if turnover exceeds R1 million)

Compulsory registration when taxable supplies exceed R1M in 12 months.

Register as employer for PAYE

Required when you hire your first employee.

Register for UIF

Unemployment Insurance Fund — mandatory for all employers.

Register for SDL

Skills Development Levy — required if annual payroll exceeds R500,000.

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Phase 3: Compliance

Meet statutory and industry compliance requirements.

Register for COIDA

Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases — mandatory for all employers.

Apply for B-BBEE certificate

Obtain a B-BBEE status level verification or sworn affidavit (EMEs).

Register with relevant industry body

Sector-specific registrations (e.g. NHBRC for construction, HPCSA for health).

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Phase 4: Banking & Admin

Set up the operational foundations for your business.

Open a business bank account

Keep business and personal finances separate from day one.

Set up accounting software

Choose a solution like Xero, Sage, or QuickBooks for bookkeeping.

Create invoice templates

Ensure invoices include VAT number, company reg number, and banking details.

Appoint an auditor or accountant

Get professional help to stay compliant and manage your finances.

New Business Registration Checklist

Your Progress

Phase 1: Business Structure

Phase 2: Tax Registration

Phase 3: Compliance

Phase 4: Banking & Admin

Starting a New Business?