Many architectural practices are likely to struggle during the 21 Day National Lockdown. There are platforms dedicated to assist businesses financially during this period,
We would like to share some valuable information made available to us by the PIA Auditors as well as other available platforms.
“Dear Acctiva family.
We hope this message finds you well.
In the light of the announcement by the president on Monday evening regarding the national lock down we would like to give you a formal update from our side. The outbreak of the Corona virus is having significant impact on us all and its effects, stretch far and wide.
We would like to start off by saying that we will remain operational during the lock down period. We will be operating remotely and therefore will strive to provide you with the best service possible given the limitations. Our telephone number (012 993 2509) will still be active, should you need to speak to us. Our service should to a large extent continue as usual. We will strive to do everything from our side to lighten your load during this challenging time and we will endeavour to add value where we can by providing up to date information and insight as we continue through this time.
The president did mention a couple of measure to assist small business.
1. Solidarity Fund:
o The Fund will focus efforts to combat the spread of the virus, help us to track the spread, care for those who are ill and support those whose lives are disrupted.
o The Fund has a website – www.solidarityfund.co.za – and contributions can be deposited via the fund.
o The Fund will be administered by a reputable team of people, drawn from financial institutions, accounting firms and government.
2. Assistance from the department of small business development
o Registration is now open, on www.smmesa.gov.za, for small and medium-sized businesses that require help during the coronavirus crisis.
o The department of Small Business Development has a debt-relief fund for small businesses.
o Small businesses affected by the outbreak of the coronavirus will be required to produce proof of negative impact as a result of COVID-19.
o They will further be assisting small businesses to avert job losses through the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA).
o Government has urged malls and retailers to consider rent and payment holidays to tenants negatively affected by the lockdown.
o Low interest loans are available to qualifying entities.
3. Banks are offering debt relief and payment holidays
o Both Standard Bank and Nedbank have announced measures to relief pressure on customers through amongst others payment holidays. httpss://bit.ly/39m859L
4. SARS offers tax holiday
o Relieving measures have been announced to delay PAYE and Provisional tax payments.
o 20% of PAYE amounts due can be withheld for 4 months.
o More details will be announced by SARS. httpss://bit.ly/39m859L “
Herewith some more links to information:
• Financial interest httpss://www.moneyweb.co.za/news/south-africa/all-small-businesses-may-apply-for-coronavirus-debt-relief-funding/
• Government httpss://smmesa.gov.za/
• Solidarity Fund httpss://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/solidarity-fund-assist-vulnerable
Further links:
• httpss://www.businessinsider.co.za/forced-to-take-leave-during-lockdown-2020-3?fbclid=IwAR18s5ViwywDOA0bSCpeEZHU8o8ziL6-qg8TRjWwcoCH9xleBARLZruEOsI
• httpss://www.enca.com/business/watch-small-businesses-receive-covid-19-fund-relief