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Compliance

B-BBEE Sworn Affidavit vs Certificate: What Do You Need?

Don't pay for a certificate if you don't need one. Learn when a Sworn Affidavit is legally sufficient for tenders.

The Biggest Scam in Tendering

Thousands of small businesses pay consultants R2000+ for a 'B-BBEE Certificate'. For most of them (EMEs), this paper is worthless or unnecessary. A free Sworn Affidavit carries the exact same legal weight for tender points.

EME, QSE, and GEN

TypeTurnoverRequirement
EME (Exempted Micro Enterprise)R0 - R10mSworn Affidavit Only
QSE (Qualifying Small Enterprise)R10m - R50mSworn Affidavit (if >51% Black Owned)
GEN (Generic)R50m+SANAS Accredited Certificate

When Do You Need a SANAS Certificate?

You only need to pay a verification agent if:

  • Your turnover exceeds R50 million per year.
  • You are a QSE (R10m-R50m) but are LESS than 51% Black Owned.
  • A specific tender requires it (rare for SMME tenders).

How to Fill the Affidavit

Honesty is critical. Lying on an affidavit is a criminal offense (fraud). Ensure your definition of 'Black Ownership' aligns with the B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice (citizenship before 1994, etc.).

Tags

B-BBEESworn AffidavitEMEQSE
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B-BBEE Sworn Affidavit vs Certificate: What Do You Need?

Don't pay for a certificate if you don't need one. Learn when a Sworn Affidavit is legally sufficient for tenders.

https://www.tenders-sa.org/blog/bbbee-sworn-affidavit-vs-certificate