Understanding the SARS Skills Development Levy

Running a successful business in South Africa means staying compliant with the tax and regulatory requirements that keep your operations running smoothly. One of these obligations is the Skills Development Levy (SDL), a valuable contribution that not only supports national workforce development but can also benefit your business directly.

What is the Skills Development Levy?

The SDL is a mandatory levy collected by SARS to fund skills development initiatives across the country. These funds are allocated to Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) to support training programmes, learnerships, and skills development projects that uplift the workforce and improve industry standards.

Who Must Pay the SDL?

Businesses are required to pay the SDL if:

  • Their annual payroll exceeds R500,000, and
  • They are registered with SARS for PAYE purposes.

The levy amount is calculated at 1% of the total monthly payroll, which includes salaries, wages, overtime, bonuses, commissions, and other taxable remuneration.

Why the SDL Matters

While the levy may seem like another administrative task, it offers several strategic benefits:

  • Access to SETA grants: Employers who submit their Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) and Annual Training Report (ATR) on time may qualify for grants that can reimburse a portion of their training spend.
  • Upskilled workforce: Investing in staff development strengthens productivity, improves service delivery, and boosts employee morale.
  • Tax-efficient training: Some training and learnership initiatives come with tax incentives, reducing the overall cost of development.

How PRNC Can Help

Managing compliance while running a business can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. At PRNC, we assist SMEs and growing businesses with:

  • Registration and compliance with the Skills Development Levy
  • Accurate payroll processing and SDL calculations
  • Guidance on WSP/ATR submissions
  • Strategic advice on maximising SETA training benefits

If you’re unsure whether your business should be paying SDL or want to leverage its benefits effectively, get in touch with PRNC. We’re here to help you stay compliant, build a stronger workforce, and position your business for long-term success.

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