Project AmaBillions: What Budget 3.0 Means for You
New Focus. New Funding. New Pressure on Taxpayers.
With Budget 3.0 scrapping the proposed VAT increase, the pressure is now squarely on SARS to close the funding gap. That’s where Project AmaBillions comes in—SARS’ ambitious plan to collect billions in outstanding tax debt.
This isn’t just a policy shift—it’s a revenue strategy, and it will impact individuals and businesses alike. But with the right focus and the right partner, navigating this tightening tax landscape is possible.
Why the Budget Shift?
After removing the contentious VAT increase, Budget 3.0 was left with a significant shortfall in revenue. To compensate:
- Fuel levies were increased by 16c/litre (petrol) and 15c/litre (diesel), effective 4 June.
- SARS received an additional R4 billion in funding (on top of R3.5bn already allocated) to intensify debt collection efforts.
- The goal? Collect R20–R50 billion more annually by targeting unpaid taxes.
What is “Project AmaBillions”?
Dubbed “Project AmaBillions” by the media (and known as SARS’ compliance programme internally), this initiative is a concentrated drive to reduce the estimated R800 billion tax gap.
Breakdown of the Tax Gap:
- R400bn: Undisputed, uncollected tax debt
- R100bn: Debt currently under dispute
- 54+ million: Outstanding returns from prior years
- 156,000: Economically active individuals not registered or not filing
SARS is refining its segmentation—focusing first on the undisputed tax debt while scaling up efforts to reach those outside the current filing base.
Targeting with Precision: SARS’ New Playbook
To meet its 2025/26 revenue targets, SARS will:
- Define and expand its target market—reaching deeper into the informal economy
- Refine communication and analytics using AI and data models to detect compliance risks
- Segment taxpayers based on risk profiles and behaviour
- Combat the illicit economy and unregistered businesses
- Intensify legal and telephonic collection activity with over 800 new staff trained to act
This level of data-driven focus means one thing: every taxpayer is on the radar.
How Does This Affect You?
If you’re a registered taxpayer or should be, expect increased contact from SARS—queries, audits, verification requests, and follow-ups on outstanding payments.
SAICA has warned that SARS’ collection pressure may lead to “heavy-handed” enforcement tactics. While SARS maintains that taxpayer rights will be respected, it’s crucial to know your rights and responsibilities.
You also need to stay alert to rising scams, where fraudsters impersonate SARS agents or debt collectors.
How We Safeguard You
At BGR, we don’t just manage tax—we protect your position.
We help you:
- Define and maintain your taxpayer profile correctly across all SARS systems
- Refine your compliance—ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and full regulatory adherence
- Validate SARS communications to shield you from fraud
- Handle disputes, deferrals, or instalment plans on your behalf
- Ensure SARS follows due legal process—including lawful collections, assessments, and refunds
We use advanced analytics and communication strategies to manage your tax footprint while maintaining your peace of mind.
Stay Ahead. Stay Protected. Stay Compliant.
As Project AmaBillions gathers momentum, our team is here to support your journey—from the informal startup to the growing SME to the seasoned professional. Let us help you segment your obligations, meet them smartly, and avoid costly oversights.
Because when SARS tightens its net, you need a partner who’s already thought three steps ahead.
Ready to refine your compliance strategy? Contact our tax team today.