How do I calculate VAT at 15% in South Africa?

To add VAT, multiply the VAT-exclusive amount by 1.15. To find the VAT portion of a VAT-inclusive price, divide by 1.15 to get the exclusive amount and subtract it from the inclusive price.

When must I register for VAT in South Africa?

Registration is compulsory once your taxable turnover exceeds R2.3 million in any consecutive 12-month period (raised from R1 million on 1 April 2026). Voluntary registration is possible once turnover exceeds R120,000 (raised from R50,000).

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VAT calculator for South Africa (15%)

Zuvo Team4 October 20264 min read

Short answer: South Africa's standard VAT rate is 15%. To add VAT to a price that excludes it, multiply by 1.15. To remove VAT from a price that includes it, divide by 1.15. The calculator below does both, and the second one checks whether your turnover means you must register.

Add or remove VAT

Amount (R)

I want to

Amount excluding VATR1,000.00

VAT at 15%R150.00

Amount including VATR1,150.00

Do I need to register for VAT?

Taxable turnover in the last 12 months (R)

Enter your taxable turnover for the last 12 months to see where you stand.

Registration is compulsory once taxable turnover exceeds R2.3 million in any 12-month period, and voluntary above R120,000. Both thresholds took effect on 1 April 2026. See our full guide to the thresholds.

How the maths works

Adding VAT: VAT = amount × 0.15, and the VAT-inclusive price = amount × 1.15. R1,000 becomes R1,150.
Removing VAT: the VAT-exclusive price = inclusive price ÷ 1.15, and VAT = the difference. R1,150 becomes R1,000, with R150 of VAT.
The common mistake: taking 15% off a VAT-inclusive price. R1,150 × 0.85 is R977.50, which is wrong. The correct VAT-exclusive amount is R1,000.

What the calculator does not cover

It uses the standard rate. Some supplies are zero-rated or exempt, and VAT only applies if you are registered. If you are not registered, leave VAT off your invoices entirely. For what must appear on a tax invoice once you are registered, read the VAT invoice requirements, or start from a free invoice template.

Putting VAT on a quote? The free quote generator adds it for you and gives you a PDF.

Zuvo applies VAT correctly on every quote and invoice

Switch VAT on once in your profile, and every document Zuvo drafts handles it from then on.

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General guidance and a simple calculator using the 15% standard rate, not tax advice. Check your own VAT position with your accountant or SARS.