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The Daily Insight

Can legal fees be claimed?

Author

Emma Jordan

Published Feb 09, 2026

When a legal expense is incurred in relation to the operation of a business to produce assessable income, it is generally allowable as a deduction. In addition, the following types of legal expenses are not deductible under the general deductibility provisions because they are of a capital or private nature.

Are legal fees for employment disputes tax deductible?

The general rule is that legal fees which are incurred as part of a company’s normal trading activities (revenue expenses) are allowable as a deduction against corporation tax. These will include legal fees related to: Employment related matters.

Can You claim legal fees paid in a year?

You can claim legal fees you paid in the year to collect or establish a right to salary or wages owed to you. See line 22900. You must reduce your claim by any award or reimbursements you received for these expenses.

How to claim unpaid salary under basic conditions of employment?

In terms of section 70 of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, you need to inform the Department of Labour of your unpaid salary/ salaries within 12 months. 2) Going to Court: Employees can also claim an unpaid salary via the Small Claims Court provided the outstanding salary does not exceed R15 000.

How can I claim unpaid salary in court?

Going to Court: Employees can also claim an unpaid salary via the Small Claims Court provided the outstanding salary does not exceed R15 000. The Small Claims Court is free of charge, no legal representation is allowed and the authority of its order is equal to that of a Magistrate’s Court. Visit the Magistrate’s Court in your area and speak to…

Is there any way to pay for a solicitor?

If you need help paying your solicitor’s fees, you may be able to get legal aid or other free legal help. Legal aid may help pay towards your legal costs. Whether you can get legal aid depends on: If you cannot get legal aid, you may be able to get other help.