What is a BEE Affidavit?
A BEE (B-BBEE) Affidavit is a sworn declaration of your company's B-BBEE status, annual turnover, and black ownership percentage. It is signed before a Commissioner of Oaths and is legally required for most government and corporate procurement processes.
Small businesses with an annual turnover of R10 million or less (EME) or between R10 million and R50 million (QSE) can use an affidavit instead of a full B-BBEE certificate — saving thousands of rands in verification costs.
EME vs QSE — Which Do You Need?
- EME (Exempted Micro Enterprise) — annual turnover under R10 million
- EME automatically qualifies as Level 4 B-BBEE (Level 1 if 100% black-owned)
- QSE (Qualifying Small Enterprise) — turnover between R10M and R50M
- QSE level depends on black ownership percentage
- Not sure which applies? WhatsApp us and we'll advise you free
When Do You Need a BEE Affidavit?
- Government tenders and procurement
- Corporate supplier registration (CSD)
- Opening certain business bank accounts
- Applying for government grants and funding
- Qualifying for preferential procurement points
- CIDB contractor registration
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a BEE Affidavit valid? +
A BEE Affidavit is valid for 12 months from the date of signing. COMPREGSA can assist with annual renewal.
Is a BEE Affidavit the same as a BEE Certificate? +
No — a BEE Certificate is issued by an accredited verification agency and costs significantly more. EMEs and QSEs are legally allowed to use a sworn affidavit instead, which COMPREGSA provides at a fraction of the cost.
Can a foreign-owned company get a BEE Affidavit? +
Yes, but the B-BBEE level will be determined by the black ownership percentage of the company. Foreign-owned companies with no South African black shareholders will typically achieve a lower BEE level.