Actress Pearl Thusi faces mounting pressure from the South African Revenue Service, which has issued a final demand for nearly R15 million in unpaid taxes and interest, according to official documents filed in September.
Sars Issues Final Demand Over R15m Tax Debt
The South African Revenue Service issued the final demand to Sithembile Xola Thusi on August 6, with the document electronically filed on September 2. According to the certified statement accompanying the notice, the outstanding balance includes nearly R9.8 million in personal income tax, R5.2 million in interest, and a separate R20,000 administrative penalty.
The documents state that Thusi failed to settle her tax debt across one or more tax periods. The notice grants the actress 10 business days to clear the balance or pursue alternative remedies. These options include applying to pay the debt in installments, seeking a suspension if she intends to formally dispute the amount, or applying for a partial compromise.
Did you know? Under South African tax law, a tax compromise allows the revenue service to accept less than the full amount owed under specific conditions, provided the taxpayer applies formally.
Potential Asset Seizure and Enforcement Actions
Failure to make suitable arrangements within the stipulated window could trigger aggressive recovery measures. According to Sars warnings outlined in the filing, the revenue service may appoint third parties who currently or in the future hold money for Thusi to settle the debt.
Additionally, Sars noted that a civil judgment may be entered against the actress. This action enables the issuance of a warrant of execution, allowing the Sheriff of the Court to attach and sell her personal assets to satisfy the outstanding balance. The documents do not specify which assets might be targeted, nor do they detail the exact tax years involved.
Thusi Responds and Disputes the Quoted Figure
Approached for comment by the Sunday Times, Thusi stated that she is aware of the matter and has engaged directly with Sars to resolve her obligations. She acknowledged that an amount is owed but argued that the figure quoted in the documents is incorrect and misleading.
“While I acknowledge that there is an amount owing to Sars, the figure quoted is grossly incorrect and therefore misleading,” Thusi told the Sunday Times. She added that she takes her responsibilities as a taxpayer seriously and remains committed to resolving the issue constructively.
Sars spokesperson Siphithi Sibeko declined to discuss the specifics of the case, citing strict taxpayer confidentiality laws that prevent the revenue service from commenting on individual accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What options does Pearl Thusi have to settle the Sars debt?
According to the final demand, Thusi has 10 business days to pay in full, apply for an installment payment plan, request a debt suspension to file a formal dispute, or apply for a tax compromise.
What makes up the R15 million total?
The certified statement shows nearly R9.8 million in personal income tax, R5.2 million in accumulated interest, and a R20,000 administrative penalty.
Can Sars seize property for unpaid taxes?
Yes. If a taxpayer fails to respond to a final demand, Sars can seek a civil judgment and issue a warrant of execution allowing the Sheriff of the Court to attach and sell assets.
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