Tax Compliance & Corporate Advisory
Why Choose DSS
All business activities (and even some non-commercial ones) have taxation implications – even for tax exempt entities. DSS offers its clients a comprehensive end-to-end service, from identifying taxation obligations, determining what tax is payable and when, to finally compiling and submitting returns to BURS. Where required, we can utilise our trust account services to effect settlement on behalf of clients.
The DSS tax team plays a critical role in helping clients navigate complex tax laws and regulations, minimize tax liabilities, and comply with reporting requirements.
Key Service Areas Provided:
- Tax Compliance: We assist our clients comply with tax laws and regulations by preparing and filing tax returns accurately and on time. Staying up-to-date with changes in tax laws and advise clients on their tax obligations to avoid penalties and fines.
- Tax Planning: Making sure we develop tax planning strategies to help clients optimize their tax savings and minimize tax liabilities. We also analyse clients’ financial situations, investments, and transactions to identify opportunities for tax deductions, credits, and incentives.
- Tax Advisory Services: Our qualified and experienced team with support from independent local and international specialists, offer our clients expert advice on various tax matters, including corporate tax, individual tax, international tax, and indirect taxes, allowing them to more easily understand and evaluate the tax complexities and implications so they can make informed business decisions that achieve tax efficiency and compliance. With over 25 years’ experience in tax law design and interpretation gained from working within BURS we provide detailed advisory services founded on an intimate knowledge of BURS operations and thought processes.
- Tax Audits and Disputes: We represent clients during tax audits conducted by tax authorities and help them respond to inquiries, gather documentation, and resolve disputes. We provide guidance on tax compliance issues and assist clients in negotiating settlements with tax authorities.
- Transfer Pricing: We advise clients on transfer pricing regulations to ensure compliance with arm’s length principles and avoid transfer pricing disputes. We help clients establish and document transfer pricing policies that align with tax laws and regulations.
- Tax Research and Updates: We always stay abreast of changes in tax laws, regulations, and court rulings to provide clients with timely updates and insights on tax developments, and conduct tax research, analyse tax implications, and advise clients on the impact of new tax laws on their business.
- Corporate Advisory: We have 20 years of experience assisting clients with mergers and acquisitions, disposals, corporate restructuring, capital and debt raising on the Botswana Stock Exchange and privately, transaction management for corporate actions (compliance with Equity and Debt Listings Requirements), shareholder mediation and conflict resolution.
At Your Service
Meet the Tax Compliance & Advisory team that will help you navigate Botswana’s business landscape.
Kopanang Thekiso
Director
Stephen Pezarro
Director
Boitshoko ‘Boi’ Mooketsi
Manager
Tutu Bakwena
Consultant
Director: Kopanang Thekiso
Director: Stephen Pezarro
Manager: Boitshoko ‘Boi’ Mooketsi
Boitshoko (Boi) Mooketsi (CIMA) with over 7 years service at DSS and previous to that with BURS, leads the tax administration team comprising Atlang Gabankgatlhe and Baikgantshi Letlole. Boi, and Ratanang Mozola (FCCA) assist with the tax advisory and Vialto professional relationship. Laurettah provides legal support with corporate advisory services. Tutu Bakwena assits Boi and Ratanang with tax advisory services.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have been submitting returns to BURS myself but find I am non-compliant – can DSS help?
Non-compliance can result from a number of processing related issues on BURS’s systems including missing returns and unallocated credits, amongst others, but also incorrect /incomplete returns and non or short payment, especially where interest and/or penalties have been levied. Our team will work with you to establish the root cause of your non-compliance and assist you resolve these challenges.
What tax advisory services does DSS provide?
We provide tax advisory services by offering expert guidance on complex tax issues, interpreting tax laws and regulations, assessing tax implications of business decisions, and recommending tax-efficient strategies, allowing clients to making informed decisions to legitimately minimize tax risks and liabilities. Our services also include identifying appropriate allowable deductions and tax treatments of their business activities and, where appropriate, engaging with BURS accordingly.
What types of tax returns are covered under tax compliance services?
BURS requires returns to be made monthly with respect to all withholding taxes (PAYE, construction and related contracts, rent, and remittances to non-resident service providers) in some cases NIL returns are required, even where no taxes have been withheld. VAT returns are due monthly for large taxpayers and bi-monthly for others. Regular importers can open a VAT deferral account which requires monthly settlement. Corporate Income tax is payable quarterly in advance and both individuals and corporations are subject to an annual return. DSS assists clients with the preparation and submission of all returns that may be required.
Can DSS assist me prepare for a tax audits?
We assist clients in managing tax audits, investigations, and disputes with tax authorities, and helping clients respond to audit requests, provide documentation and explanations, negotiate settlements, and represent clients in tax dispute resolution proceedings.
How can DSS help with international tax issues?
Our team, in liaison with international tax advisors, can assist clients with international tax issues by providing guidance on cross-border transactions, transfer pricing, tax treaties, foreign tax credits, and compliance with global tax regulations. This services assists clients navigate international tax complexities and supports their compliance with international tax obligations.
Navigate Tax & Corporate Complexity with Ease: DSS Provides Comprehensive Solutions from Tax Compliance to Listing and everything in between.