Why Managing CIPC Compliance in Spreadsheets Is a Risk You Can’t Afford
In South Africa, managing CIPC compliance across multiple client entities is one of the most critical — and time-consuming — responsibilities for accounting and company secretarial firms. Yet, many still rely on Excel or Google Sheets to track Annual Returns, Beneficial Ownership updates, and company changes. At first glance, spreadsheets seem convenient. But when it […]
Who Is Prohibited From Being A Director?
Confused about who can’t be a director in South Africa? Learn the disqualification rules and how to avoid appointing a disqualified director. Prevent legal issues, protect your company, and ensure good governance.
Limited Liability: What It Really Means for South African Directors
Ask almost any new business owner what “Pty Ltd” stands for, and they’ll tell you it means limited liability. It’s the phrase that gives founders confidence to take risks — the idea that the company’s debts and mistakes won’t follow them home. But limited liability, while powerful, isn’t a magic shield. For directors, it comes […]
Your Business, SARS, and the Public Officer in Between. The Compliance Role You Can’t Ignore
Essential Tax Compliance Insights for Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses As an entrepreneur or small business owner in South Africa, you know that navigating the complexities of the tax landscape is crucial for long-term success. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is appointing a SARS Public Officer. This article explains the role, responsibilities, and […]
On the Road with Intersect: What We Learned from Accountants at the Xero Roadshow
Over the past two weeks, the Intersect Connect team joined the Johannesburg and Cape Town legs of the Xero Roadshow; and what an experience it was. We weren’t just there to demo our product. We went to connect with the people who use (or might soon use) Intersect, to better understand their challenges, their goals, […]
Avoiding the Next Kleuterzone: A Due Diligence Checklist for Investors
Last week, one of our Intersect users reported a system bug, only to discover that their client’s legacy share certificate, contained an incorrect company registration number. Thanks to Intersect’s automated CIPC – Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (a member of the dtic Group) verification, they were alerted to the discrepancy and were able to rectify […]
Learning from Athletics South Africa’s Deregistration: Why Every Business Must Stay Current with CIPC Annual Returns & Beneficial Ownership Filings
In February 2025, Athletics South Africa (ASA) made headlines when it was officially deregistered by the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) for failing to file its annual returns for two consecutive years. This oversight — codified in Government Gazette Publication 2025‑299 — led to ASA losing its legal personality and jeopardising funding for events, […]
How to convert an Annual Return Deregistration into a Voluntary Liquidation with CIPC
When a company fails to submit its annual returns for two consecutive years, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) initiates an ‘Annual Return Deregistration’ process. This means the company is in the process of being deregistered due to non-compliance. However, if the business owner wishes to formally wind up the company through a ‘Voluntary […]
CIPC’s New Directives: What to Expect in the Year Ahead
Introduction The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) plays a crucial role in regulating businesses in South Africa, ensuring compliance with the Companies Act, and streamlining administrative processes for company owners, accountants, and company secretaries. As we move into the new year, the CIPC is set to introduce several new directives aimed at enhancing transparency, […]
Are Accountants Already Acting as Company Secretaries Without Realizing It?
Introduction The role of the company secretary has always been a cornerstone of corporate governance. However, as businesses embrace digital transformation and regulatory landscapes evolve, the importance of the company secretary has grown even more pronounced. This article explores how the company secretary’s responsibilities are changing and why this role is more essential than ever […]