One of the most important requirements for applying for government tenders in South Africa is a valid Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PIN. Without it, your tender application will be marked non-responsive and automatically disqualified.
For Black South African entrepreneurs and SMEs, the TCS PIN is not just paperwork—it’s the proof that your business is in good standing with SARS. This guide explains what a TCS PIN is, how to apply for one, and how to keep it valid.
1. What Is a TCS PIN?
A Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PIN is a 10-digit number issued by SARS (South African Revenue Service).
- It allows government buyers to check your real-time tax status online.
- Replaces the old “Tax Clearance Certificate” paper system.
- Shows if your business is compliant with VAT, PAYE, income tax, and other obligations.
Important: Your TCS PIN is only valid if your tax affairs remain compliant.
2. Why Do You Need a TCS PIN for Tenders?
Every tender bid must include a valid TCS PIN. Buyers use it to:
- Verify your tax compliance instantly on SARS eFiling.
- Confirm your business is registered and up to date with SARS.
- Ensure only legitimate, compliant businesses get government contracts.
Without a valid PIN, your bid is automatically rejected—even if the rest of your documents are perfect.
3. Documents and Information Needed
Before applying, make sure you have:
- Registered company tax number
- Directors’/owners’ ID numbers and tax details
- Login access to SARS eFiling
- Up-to-date returns (VAT, PAYE, Income Tax if applicable)
4. How to Get a TCS PIN (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Log in to SARS eFiling
- Visit https://www.sarsefiling.co.za
- Log in with your eFiling username and password
Step 2: Navigate to ‘Tax Compliance Status’
- On the menu, select “Tax Status” → “Tax Compliance Status Request”
Step 3: Choose the Purpose
- Select “Tender” as your reason for requesting the TCS PIN
Step 4: Generate the PIN
- Submit the request
- SARS issues a 10-digit TCS PIN immediately
Step 5: Include the PIN in Your Bid
- Add the PIN to your tender submission documents
- Buyers verify it online directly with SARS
5. How to Keep Your TCS PIN Valid
A TCS PIN is only valid if your tax affairs stay compliant. To keep it valid:
- File all tax returns on time (Income Tax, VAT, PAYE)
- Pay taxes due or make arrangements if you owe SARS
- Ensure director/owner personal tax is also compliant
- Update your details with SARS when anything changes
Tip: Even if you already have a TCS PIN, check its status regularly—it can become invalid if your compliance changes.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting an expired or invalid TCS PIN
- Not linking your company and director tax details correctly
- Generating the PIN under the wrong category (e.g., “Good Standing” instead of “Tender”)
- Assuming one PIN covers everything—generate a new one if requested
7. How etenderportal.co.za Helps
On etenderportal.co.za you’ll find:
- Guides like this that simplify compliance for SMEs
- Tender listings clearly showing TCS PIN as a requirement
- Step-by-step help so you don’t get disqualified for avoidable mistakes
8. Final Tips
- Apply for your TCS PIN before you start tendering
- Always double-check its validity before submission
- Keep tax affairs in order—both company and directors’ personal tax
- Save your PIN securely as part of your tender compliance pack