What Is the Minimum Salary For PAYE In South Africa?

By Mav OT •  Updated: 01/23/24 •  4 min read

Want to know more about the minimum salary for PAYE in South Africa? Then, you have found the right blog post for you. 

In South Africa, the PAYE system is responsible for deducting income tax directly from employees’ salaries. A minimum threshold is set to ensure that individuals with low incomes are exempted from paying taxes. This threshold aims to reduce the tax burden for individuals with lower incomes, promoting economic inclusivity. Employers have a vital role to play in the implementation of PAYE, as they are responsible for ensuring that deductions are made accurately and that they comply with tax regulations. The system contributes to generating government revenue while also focusing on ensuring fairness in taxation. It aims to promote social and economic equity among the diverse workforce in South Africa.

As we continue to dissect this matter, we will share with you more information on South Africa PAYE as well as the minimum salary for PAYE.

What is the minimum salary for PAYE in South Africa?

In South Africa, the minimum salary for PAYE is reviewed annually by the South Africa Revenue Service at the beginning of each fiscal year. The review plays a crucial role in ensuring that taxation practices in the country are fair and equitable.

SARS aims to ensure that tax obligations align with the evolving economic landscape and the needs of employees and employers by regularly evaluating the minimum salary for PAYE. By adopting this proactive approach, it becomes possible to make necessary adjustments to the minimum salary threshold. These adjustments consider various factors like inflation, economic growth, and the cost of living. 

In South Africa, the minimum salary for PAYE is currently set at R6950. The amount mentioned considers different salary structures and deductions that might apply to individuals. The PAYE system is a method established by the South African Revenue Service for gathering income tax from employees.

Is PAYE compulsory in South Africa?

Yes, Indeed, PAYE is a compulsory tax system in South Africa. Employers are required to deduct income tax from their employees’ salaries or wages and then send it to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) on their behalf.

As an employer, it is important for you to ensure that you accurately calculate and deduct these payments from your employees’ wages. Afterwards, you need to remit these payments to the relevant tax authorities. Engaging in deliberate actions to evade or avoid PAYE payments can result in a range of legal consequences.

What is the SARS threshold for PAYE?

Understanding the SARS threshold for PAYE, which stands for Pay-As-You-Earn, is crucial regarding income tax in South Africa. The term “tax bracket” is used to describe a specific category that determines whether an individual needs to pay taxes based on their income. 

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has put in place a specific threshold to help individuals understand the exact tax percentage they need to pay on their salary or commission. This measure aims to ensure clarity and accuracy in tax calculations. The threshold has been thoughtfully crafted to ensure that tax obligations are clear and transparent.
Below is the SARS threshold for PAYE.

Who is eligible to pay PAYE tax?

When you receive a salary or commission from your employer which is within the taxable threshold, they are required to deduct taxes from your monthly earnings. The amount you earn and whether or not you receive fringe benefits are factors that determine this. That’s why it’s called “pay-as-you-earn”.

The amount of income tax deducted is determined by using a tax table provided by Sars. This calculation considers various fringe benefits, including travel allowances, pension contributions, and medical aid contributions. To settle the deducted amounts, the employer must complete the Monthly Employer Return (EMP201) and make the necessary payment. 

Keep Reading

What Percentage Is PAYE In South Africa?

What Percentage Is PAYE In South Africa?

What Percentage Is PAYE. In this blog post, we will focus more on the percentage bracket for PAYE in South Africa.

Which Incomes Are Taxable Under PAYE And VAT

Which Incomes Are Taxable Under PAYE And VAT

This post will delve into the details to better understand which wages are subject to taxation under PAYE and VAT.

Do Domestic Workers Have To Be Registered For PAYE?

Do Domestic Workers Have To Be Registered For PAYE?

So, lace up your dancing shoes and let’s explore the dance floor of PAYE for domestic workers in South Africa!

How to Use Unallocated Payments to Allocate to PAYE

How to Use Unallocated Payments to Allocate to PAYE

In this informative guide, we will explore the details of using unallocated payments to make your PAYE process more efficient.

What Does A PAYE Minus Mean On Payslip

What Does A PAYE Minus Mean On Payslip

The systematic approach mentioned here aims to simplify tax compliance for employees and tax authorities.

How to Apply For A PAYE Refund

How to Apply For A PAYE Refund

By consistently keeping track of tax codes and staying informed about eligible deductions, you increase your likelihood of discovering and obtaining PAYE tax refunds

Do You Pay PAYE On A Personal Loan?

Do You Pay PAYE On A Personal Loan?

So, let’s put on our beekeeper suits, grab our smokers, and dive into the buzzing world of PAYE.

Requirements for Applying for a PAYE Certificate

Requirements for Applying for a PAYE Certificate

What are the requirements for applying for a PAYE certificate. This blog post will answer the common queries on PAYE certificates and registration. 

Can I Pay Someone if I’m Not Registered for PAYE?

Can I Pay Someone if I’m Not Registered for PAYE?

Can I Pay Someone if I’m Not Registered for PAYE? This article explains everything you want to know about PAYE. 

How to Calculate PAYE In South Africa?

How to Calculate PAYE In South Africa?

Today we break down some basic PAYE concepts to help you better understand PAYE calculations in South Africa.

How to File PAYE Return EMP501

How to File PAYE Return EMP501

Can PAYE Be Deducted From Trustees?

Can PAYE Be Deducted From Trustees?

We’ll shed light on the responsibilities, registration processes, and all things tax-related when it comes to trustees and PAYE in South Africa

How to Register An Employee For PAYE

How to Register An Employee For PAYE

While we talk about taxes, we will be taking you through how one can register as an employee for PAYE.

Can SARS Refund Overpayment For PAYE?

Can SARS Refund Overpayment For PAYE?

Can SARS Refund Overpayment For PAYE? This article explains everything you want to know about tax refunds.      

How to Reinstate A PAYE Number In South Africa

How to Reinstate A PAYE Number In South Africa

In this section, we will share with you some information that can help you reinstate the PAYE number in South Africa