Whether you are applying for a bank loan, development funding or bringing in an investor, the first question is always the same: can you show us your numbers? Businesses that have their documents ready get faster answers and better terms.
The core funding pack
- Annual financial statements for the last two to three years, compiled or independently reviewed.
- Recent management accounts, ideally no more than three months old.
- A cash flow forecast showing how the funding will be used and repaid.
- A tax compliance status (TCS) PIN from SARS showing you are in good standing.
- CIPC documents: registration certificate, current director details and up-to-date annual returns.
- Bank statements for the last six to twelve months.
- A B-BBEE certificate or affidavit, often required by funders and corporate clients.
- A short business plan explaining the opportunity, the market and the team.
What funders look for in the numbers
- Consistent revenue and healthy gross margins.
- The ability to service debt from operating cash flow.
- Clean, reconciled books with no unexplained balances.
- No outstanding SARS or CIPC issues.
Planning to raise funding? We prepare bank-ready financial packs, forecasts and management accounts, and make sure your SARS and CIPC records are in order.
Written byMduduzi LekgobohloChartered Accountant CA(SA) | Registered Tax Practitioner
About Mduduzi
This article is general information based on the law and SARS guidance as at 10 June 2026. It is not tax or legal advice for your specific situation. Please contact us before acting on it.
