General guidance only. This calculator applies the 15% standard VAT rate. Some goods and services are zero-rated or exempt. Confirm the correct treatment with SARS or your accountant.
How to calculate VAT in South Africa
VAT (Value-Added Tax) is charged at a standard rate of 15% on most goods and services in South Africa. Whether you're pricing a quote, checking an invoice, or working out how much of a payment is VAT, there are two everyday calculations:
Adding VAT (exclusive → inclusive)
Multiply the VAT-exclusive amount by 1.15. For example, R1 000 excluding VAT is R1 000 × 1.15 = R1 150 including VAT, of which R150 is VAT.
Removing VAT (inclusive → exclusive)
Divide the VAT-inclusive amount by 1.15 to get the exclusive amount; the difference is the VAT. To get just the VAT portion of an inclusive price, multiply it by 15/115. So R1 150 including VAT contains R1 150 × 15/115 = R150 of VAT.
Frequently asked questions
What is the VAT rate in South Africa?
The standard rate of VAT in South Africa is 15%. It has been 15% since 1 April 2018. Some goods and services are zero-rated (0%) or exempt.
How do I add 15% VAT to a price?
Multiply the VAT-exclusive amount by 1.15. For example, R1,000 excluding VAT becomes R1,150 including VAT (R150 is the VAT). Use 'Add VAT' mode above.
How do I work out the VAT included in a price?
Divide the VAT-inclusive amount by 1.15 to get the exclusive amount; the difference is the VAT. A quick shortcut for the VAT portion is to multiply the inclusive price by 15/115. Use 'Remove VAT' mode above.
Is everything subject to 15% VAT?
No. Certain items are zero-rated (such as basic foodstuffs, and exports) and others are exempt (such as certain financial and educational services). This calculator applies the standard 15% rate.
When must I register for VAT in South Africa?
VAT registration is compulsory once your taxable turnover exceeds R1 million in any 12-month period, and voluntary registration is available from R50,000. Confirm current thresholds with SARS.
What's the difference between zero-rated and exempt?
Zero-rated supplies are taxed at 0% and you can still claim input VAT on related costs; exempt supplies carry no VAT and you cannot claim input VAT on them.
How often are VAT returns submitted?
Most vendors submit a VAT201 return every two months, though some submit monthly. Bluubin keeps your VAT201 figures current so submission is a quick review.
How do I work out the VAT portion of an inclusive price?
Multiply the inclusive price by 15/115 (about 0.1304). For example, R1,150 including VAT contains R150 of VAT. Use 'Remove VAT' mode above to do this automatically.
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