"How much does it cost to register a company?" is one of the most-searched business questions in South Africa — and the good news is the government's own fee is small. In this guide we break down exactly what CIPC charges, what a done-for-you service adds, the extra costs new owners forget (bank accounts, B-BBEE, tax clearance), and how to register affordably without cutting corners.
What a registration service costs (and why people pay it)
A service provider like Mokoena Fortified Holdings charges a service fee on top of the CIPC fee to:
- lodge the registration correctly the first time,
- submit multiple name options and manage rejections,
- bundle the extras that actually make your company usable.
Think of it as paying for speed, correctness and convenience — not just the certificate.
The "hidden" costs new owners forget
| Extra | Why you need it | Typical note |
|---|---|---|
| B-BBEE affidavit | Tenders & corporate clients | Often free/low-cost for EMEs |
| Tax clearance / Tax Compliance Status | Tenders, contracts | Requires SARS compliance |
| Business bank account | Trading, credibility | Bank fees apply monthly |
| Company profile & logo | Winning clients | Design service |
| Website & email | Credibility, leads | Setup + hosting |
| Annual return (yearly) | Stay registered | Recurring CIPC fee |
Is company registration worth the cost?
Yes — for almost any business that wants to trade formally. For a small once-off fee you gain limited liability, access to tenders and funding, a business bank account, and credibility with corporate clients. The cost of not registering (lost tenders, personal liability, no funding access) is far higher.
