When starting a business, it's easy to get carried away in the excitement, but like with anything those who plan first are far more likely to succeed. Whereas you may already know where you are sourcing your raw products, or who your first clients will be, it is distinctly possible that other aspects have slipped under the radar. 

One of these might be the finances. Why worry about what hasn't been earned yet? Finance will, however, form the core of your business and will dictate whether you are looking at a thriving concern or bankruptcy. So, it must be taken very seriously indeed. 

Here are five simple financial steps you need to take before you open your business that will help you set your business up for success. 

Businesses are often required to provide tax clearance information to other entities including, for example, existing or potential clients, financial institutions, or even investors, and for reasons ranging from applying for a tender to confirming good standing. Previously, proof of tax compliance status was made available through a manual tax clearance certificate, but today it is provided online and in real time.  

Here's what SARS requires to produce proof of your Tax Compliance Status (TCS) with a TCS PIN, and why it is so important to maintain it all year round – all of which highlights the need for professional assistance to ensure your company gets all the benefits that come from ongoing compliance. 

In the post covid environment demand for office space has been shrinking in many areas of South Africa, and yet there are several reasons why you may still want to get space for your business. 

Depending on the nature of your work, collaboration may be an important aspect to your success, or perhaps workflows demand the kind of input that simply isn't available remotely or maybe there is a marketing benefit to you maintaining a noticeable space?

Given the decreased demand, in some areas, and the downward trend on rent, there has never been a better time to move out of your garage or upgrade your current office. Here are a few quick things you need to think about when choosing your office and getting the most out of your lease.