About the Role
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport is seeking a dedicated State Accountant for Tax Reconciliation at its Head Office in Qonce, Eastern Cape. This role is significant in ensuring that tax rebate services are rendered efficiently and accurately, directly impacting the financial well-being of our community. By processing tax rebate applications and maintaining precise financial records, you will play a crucial part in upholding the integrity of public service finances in South Africa.
As a State Accountant, you will not only manage the financial aspects of tax rebates but also foster relationships with various stakeholders. This position is vital for ensuring compliance with legislation, policies, and procedures while addressing taxpayer queries and concerns. Working in this role means contributing to the transparency and efficiency of government services, thereby enhancing the trust and support of the community you serve.
About the Department
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport is committed to promoting cultural diversity and enhancing the quality of life for all South Africans. It plays a pivotal role in the preservation and promotion of South Africa’s rich cultural heritage, while also managing sports development initiatives that empower communities. By working in this department, you will be part of a mission that values inclusivity, creativity, and the transformative power of culture and sport in society.
What You’ll Do
- Provide tax rebate services by receiving, assessing, and processing applications in compliance with relevant regulations.
- Verify the completeness and accuracy of supporting documentation submitted by taxpayers and stakeholders.
- Capture, update, and maintain tax rebate information in financial management systems.
- Calculate and process approved tax rebates within specified turnaround times.
- Prepare payment schedules for tax rebates and resolve related queries from taxpayers and internal stakeholders.
- Reconcile tax rebate accounts, identify discrepancies, and investigate differences promptly.
- Compile monthly, quarterly, and annual reconciliation reports, supporting financial reporting needs.
- Maintain accurate financial records and assist with audit requests by providing necessary documentation.
What You’ll Need
- National Senior Certificate plus a National Diploma (NQF Level 6) or B. Degree (NQF Level 7) in Accounting, Cost & Management Accounting, Financial Management, or Internal Audit.
- 1 to 2 years of experience in public sector expenditure management or payment of employee benefits.
- Knowledge of financial systems such as LOGIS, PERSAL, and BAS.
- Familiarity with the Tax Administration Act, Public Finance Management Act, and Treasury Regulations.
- Proficiency in Advanced Excel and PowerPoint, alongside strong communication and report writing skills.
- Valid driver’s license (Code 8) will be an added advantage.
How to Apply
Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.
Requirements
National Senior Certificate plus a National Diploma (NQF Level 6) or B.Degree (NQF level 7 as recognised by SAQA) in Accounting/ Cost & Management Accounting/ Financial Management/ Internal Audit qualifications with at least 1 to 2 years’ experience within the public sector expenditure management field and payment of employee benefits.
Public sector finances experience in budgeting and revenue management will be added advantage.
Knowledge of financial systems (LOGIS, PERSAL and BAS).
Knowledge of Tax Administration Act, Public Service Regulations, Legislations / policies / prescripts, and procedures.
Knowledge of Treasury Regulations and the Public Finance Management Act and Financial Regulations.
Knowledge of Batho Pele principles.
Computer literacy specializing in Advanced EXCEL and PowerPoint Presentation.
Good communication and report writing skills.
Sound organisational skills.
People management.
Customer / client 124 orientated approach and ability to work under pressure and independently.
A valid driving licence (Code 8) will be an added advantage.
Job Duties
Render Tax Rebates Services.Receive, assess and process tax rebate applications in accordance with relevant legislation, policies and procedures.
Verify the completeness and -accuracy of supporting documentation submitted by taxpayers and stakeholders.
Validate taxpayer information against financial and tax records.
Capture, update and maintain tax rebate information on the relevant financial management systems.
Calculate and process approved tax rebates accurately and within prescribed turnaround times.
Prepare payment schedules for approved tax rebates.
Resolve tax rebate-related queries from taxpayers and internal stakeholders.
Liaise with relevant internal and external stakeholders regarding outstanding information and tax rebate matters.
Perform Tax Reconciliation.
Reconcile tax rebate accounts and identify discrepancies.
Investigate and resolve reconciliation differences promptly.
Match payments, refunds and adjustments with supporting documentation.
Reconcile general ledger accounts relating to tax rebates.
Ensure that reconciliations are completed within prescribed timeframes.
Maintain complete reconciliation records and audit trails.
Escalate unresolved discrepancies to the supervisor.
Financial Administration and Reporting.
Compile monthly, quarterly and annual reconciliation reports.
Prepare management information on tax rebate transactions.
Monitor outstanding tax rebate claims and recommend corrective actions.
Maintain accurate financial records in accordance with record management policies.
Assist with audit requests by providing supporting documentation and explanations.
Promote Stakeholder and Customer Service.
Provide professional advice and guidance to taxpayers and stakeholders regarding tax rebate procedures.
Respond to enquiries within prescribed service standards.
Build and maintain productive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Participate in awareness sessions and provide support on tax rebate processes.
