B-BBEE affidavits for small businesses

Smaller businesses can usually prove their B-BBEE status with a sworn affidavit rather than a costly verified certificate. This is simpler and far cheaper, and it is widely accepted by the CSD and tender committees. But the affidavit route is only available to certain businesses — using one where it is not allowed is a criminal offence.

1. Who can use an affidavit

• EME (annual turnover under R10 million): any EME may use a sworn affidavit.
• QSE (turnover R10m–R50m): only QSEs that are 51% or more black owned may use an affidavit.
• NOT allowed: Generic enterprises (turnover over R50m), the Transport sector, and any company applying the Modified Flow Through Principle — these need a formal SANAS-accredited certificate.

2. B-BBEE levels at a glance

3. The 12 sector codes and affidavit eligibility

4. Completing your affidavit

• Valid for 12 months from the date stamped by a Commissioner of Oaths.
• Only a Director, Member or Owner of the entity may sign — no third parties.
• Must be commissioned at a Commissioner of Oaths (e.g. police station or notary).
• Complete all fields in full, including the Black Designated Group breakdown where applicable.
• The financial year-end date must be correct (day, month, year).
• The deponent signature date must match the Commissioner of Oaths stamp date.
• Providing incorrect shareholder information is a criminal offence.

5. What happens after you generate

• Print the affidavit.
• Sign it before a Commissioner of Oaths (police station or notary).
• It is valid for 12 months from the stamp date.
• Upload it to your CSD supplier profile.
• Attach it to your tender submissions.