The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has reportedly issued a final notice to well-known media personality and entrepreneur Bonang Matheba regarding an alleged outstanding tax debt exceeding R7 million.
According to reports, the notice was sent on 17 February, giving Matheba 10 business days to either settle the outstanding amount in full or make suitable payment arrangements with the tax authority. Should the matter remain unresolved within the stipulated timeframe, SARS may take legal steps to recover the money.
If the situation escalates, the tax authority could apply for a civil judgment against the star. This process would potentially allow the sheriff of the court to attach and auction off assets belonging to the media personality in order to recover the alleged debt.
The dispute is believed to be linked to the alleged failure to submit personal income tax returns for the 2025 financial year. In South Africa, taxpayers are legally required to file their returns within the deadlines set by SARS. Failure to do so can result in penalties, interest on outstanding amounts, and possible legal action if the issue remains unresolved.
Despite the reports making headlines, Matheba’s publicist has declined to provide detailed comments on the matter. Instead, the representative stated that any tax-related issues involving the star are private and handled directly between the businesswoman and the tax authority.
SARS has also chosen not to comment on the situation, citing strict taxpayer confidentiality laws that prevent the organisation from discussing the tax affairs of individual taxpayers. These laws are designed to protect personal financial information and ensure that tax matters remain confidential.
The reported notice comes at a time when SARS has intensified its efforts to ensure compliance among high-income earners, particularly influencers, celebrities, and digital entrepreneurs. In recent years, many public figures have expanded their income streams beyond traditional employment, earning significant revenue from brand endorsements, sponsorship deals, business ventures, and digital content platforms.
Tax authorities have increasingly focused on ensuring that income from these sources is properly declared and taxed. SARS has repeatedly warned that all forms of income — including earnings from social media partnerships and online platforms — must be reported in accordance with South African tax laws.
Matheba is one of South Africa’s most recognisable media personalities and business figures. Over the years, she has built a successful career as a television presenter, radio host, author, and entrepreneur, while also launching several business ventures and collaborating with major brands.
While the tax dispute remains unresolved publicly, it is not uncommon for such matters to be settled privately between taxpayers and SARS through payment plans, corrections to tax filings, or negotiations regarding outstanding amounts.
For now, it remains unclear whether Matheba has responded to the final notice or made arrangements with the tax authority. Until further details emerge, the matter is likely to remain confidential due to the strict privacy laws governing taxpayer information in South Africa.
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