How to Make Your Business Compliant for Government Contracts
Ensure your company meets all registration, return, certificate, profile, and branding requirements to qualify for government tenders.
Quick Summary
- Register your company, employees, and tax obligations correctly.
- Maintain up-to-date returns, COID, NHBRC, and tax certificates.
- Create a professional company profile and branding for tenders.
- Compliance increases eligibility and reduces tender rejection risk.
Registrations You Must Complete
- CIPC: Register your company with accurate details and business structure.
- SARS: Obtain a tax number and register for VAT if required.
- COID: Register for employee injury insurance; obtain a Letter of Good Standing.
- NHBRC: If in construction, register your company/builders for compliance.
Keep Returns and Certificates Up to Date
Regularly submit annual and monthly returns to stay compliant.
- Tax returns and VAT submissions to SARS.
- UIF returns for all employees.
- COID annual declarations to maintain your Good Standing.
- NHBRC certificates renewed as needed.
Company Profile Preparation
A clear, professional company profile is essential for tenders.
- Include business structure, registration numbers, and key personnel.
- List past projects and references.
- Highlight compliance certificates and insurance coverage.
- Ensure all information is accurate and verifiable.
Branding for Credibility
Government tenders look for professional and consistent branding.
- Logo, color scheme, and typography consistent across documents.
- Use branded letterheads, email signatures, and tender documents.
- Professional website that reflects your company’s capabilities.
Checklist & Timeline
| Requirement |
Action |
Frequency / Timeline |
| Company Registration |
Register with CIPC with correct details. |
One-time |
| Tax & VAT |
Register, submit monthly/annual returns. |
Ongoing |
| UIF & COID |
Register employees, submit returns, maintain Good Standing. |
Monthly/Annually |
| NHBRC |
Register builders and company, update certificates as needed. |
Annually or per project |
| Company Profile & Branding |
Create and update tender-ready profiles and professional branding. |
Ongoing, review before each tender |
When to Get Professional Help
Managing registrations, returns, certificates, and branding can be complex. Professional consultants ensure compliance and improve your tender success rate.
Get expert compliance support
Keeping registrations, returns, certificates, profiles, and branding up-to-date ensures your business is fully compliant and competitive for government contracts.
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