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The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has urged social media influencers to declare all income earned through their online platforms in line with tax laws.
The tax authority confirmed it is investigating cases of undeclared income from content creation, warning that influencers will be taxed in the same way as freelancers and other self-employed individuals.
SARS spokesperson, Siphithi Sibeko, explained that the obligation is clear under the Income Tax Act of 1962.
“Anyone who earns an income is required to pay tax. In the case of influencers, just like freelancers, they may earn at different times and at varying levels. However, once reconciled over the year, this constitutes gross income which must be declared and taxed,” Sibeko said.
The growing influencer economy has seen many young South Africans generating significant income through brand partnerships, sponsored content, and digital campaigns. SARS has emphasised that failing to declare such earnings could result in penalties, audits, or legal action.
Further details are available on the SARS website: SARS Media Release.
