Submitting your Documents with the Human Rights Commission is a Legal Requirement
Are you doing business in any way? Perhaps running a small home-office? Or running a stall? Or even running a normal business and may be classified as a “private body” under the laws in South Africa?
Are you running a business as a sole-prop, CC, PTY or Trading Trust?
Did you know that you are required to submit your Section 51 Documents to the Human Rights Commission? In 2000 the government of the Republic of South Africa passed a very important law, the Promotion of Access to Information Act. This act was aimed to improve transparency in business and in government. It affects the way we do business.
What do I need to Submit?
The requirements of your Section 51 documentation is laid out in the Promotion of Access to Information Act. The documentation includes basic contact details and copies of various Acts pertaining to the day to day running of your business.
Who needs to Submit?
In terms of the Act everyone who trades in any way needs to register. If you are running a small business from home or a retail shop. Whether you’re running a service business from your car or running your business from a laptop out of a coffee shop – you need to register.
Whether you are running as a Sole Proprietor (in your own name) or as a Closed Corporation or PTY (LTD) or a Trading Trust you need to register with the SA Human Rights Commission.
What if I don’t Register?
In terms of the Act, people who fail to register can be fined up to R15000 or imprisoned by up to two years.
By when should I register?
In terms of the law you are required to register within 6 months of starting your business. Smaller businesses have been given until 2011 to comply with this legislation.
How much does this cost?
Costs of preparing the documentation vary from one company to the next (up to R3000!).
Total Compliance will complete your documentation and submit it on your behalf for a once off fee of R570.00 including VAT, printing and postage.
How do I submit my documents with the Human Rights Commission?
Total Compliance is a specialised Compliance Unit that has been set up to help people with their registration. You can apply online at www.totalcompliance.co.za or complete and download, fill in and fax the order form found online.
