Tax Clearance for Tenders 2026

Understanding TCS PINs, CSD integration, and how to stay compliant.

The TCS PIN System

Physical Tax Clearance Certificates (TCC) are no longer issued for tenders. You must provide a Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PIN.

How it Works

Log in to SARS eFiling.
Activate "Tax Compliance Status".
Request a "Tender" TCS PIN.
Provide this PIN + your Tax Reference Number in your tender document (SBD 1).
The government official uses this PIN to view your real-time status on SARS.

Fixing "Non-Compliant" Status

If your CSD report says "Tax Non-Compliant," your tender will be disqualified. Common reasons:

Outstanding Tax Returns (Income Tax, VAT, PAYE)
Outstanding Debt to SARS
Incorrect details on CSD

The Fix:

Submit outstanding returns or make payment arrangement → Wait 24 hours → Log into CSD → Click "Refresh Tax Status".

Automated Tax Status Monitoring

Don't find out you're non-compliant on the day of the tender. Get daily alerts if your status changes.

Start Monitoring

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the TCS PIN expire?

The PIN itself doesn't expire, but it reflects your current status. If you become non-compliant tomorrow, the PIN will show "Non-Compliant" when the official checks it. You must remain compliant throughout the tender evaluation period.

Do I need a Tax Clearance for a Joint Venture?

Yes. Every partner in the Joint Venture must submit their own valid TCS PIN. If one partner is non-compliant, the entire Joint Venture bid is disqualified.

How do I get a TCS PIN from SARS eFiling?

Log in to SARS eFiling, navigate to Tax Compliance Status, activate the service if not already active, then request a "Tender" type TCS PIN. The PIN is generated immediately and can be used in your tender documents.

How long does it take to fix Non-Compliant tax status?

After submitting outstanding returns or making a payment arrangement with SARS, allow 24–48 hours for the system to update. Then log into CSD and click "Refresh Tax Status" to pull the latest status from SARS.

What is the difference between a Tax Clearance Certificate and a TCS PIN?

Physical Tax Clearance Certificates (TCC) are no longer issued for tenders. The TCS PIN system replaced them. A TCS PIN allows government officials to check your real-time tax compliance status directly on SARS, making it more secure and current than the old paper certificates.