Independent contractors - liable for employee tax?

We have several independent contractors who we pay regularly each month (R7k). (1) Is employee tax relevant in this instance? (2) If so, do we do deductions before paying them?

If they are true "independent contractors" you would pay them the full amount and they would be responsible for their own taxes.

If they are more likely to be perceived as "employees" then you would need to deduct PAYE before paying them their salary.

What is the nature of their work? Do they work full time at your premises?

The Independent Contractors work as TeleStars for us (telemarketers) from their home office. We all work virtually. They work on average 4 hours a day, at their own pace, 5 days per work, all in office hours.

Do you know if they have other clients?

We are their only client at this stage.

The issue of whether you should deduct tax is not entirely clear cut. However, based on the details given, it would probably be best to deduct PAYE and UIF for them.

Please make use of our SARS income tax calculator to see the PAYE and UIF you should deduct.