Singer-songwriter and record producer Zonke Dikana allegedly owes the South African Revenue Services (SARS) R18 million in taxes.
Zonke joins the long list of mzansi celebrities accused of not submitting their tax returns as SARS follows her for payment.
According to entertainment publication, ZiMoja, the Jik’izinto hitmaker has defaulted in her taxes where she did not account for items brought this year.
A close source told the entertainment publication that, “She has been paying her taxes but some details slipped through the cracks, and she defaulted. This sort of thing can easily happen to artists because they are self-employed and get paid for gigs per invoice.”
Given that most musicians and actors are regarded as self-employed the government still requires tax returns from them every month. Where for some it becomes difficult to pay as they never get paid a fixed amount like a government worker.
According to the financial hub, DailyInvestor, SARS has been doing a follow-up on a lot of public figures including Shauwn Mkhize, Casper Nyovest, Somizi and Kagiso Rabada just to name a few.
Speaking on the tax compliance cases regarding these public figures, Tax Consulting SA’s Associate Director and Head of Strategic Engagement and Compliance, Jashwin Baijoo said, “This situation serves as a chilling reminder of the severe consequences that can arise from unresolved tax obligations, regardless of one’s station in life.”
He explains that the individuals pursued by SARS for payment are typically those who either do not pay on time, fail to submit their tax returns leading to estimated assessments, submit tax returns without making any payments, or make only partial payments of their tax liabilities along with any unpaid interest and penalties.
In Zonke’s case, it is claimed that she has not been able to be reached regarding her situation leading to charges increasing due to no communication.
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