Let’s Talk About the Law of Compensation: 2025 Update on the Return of Earnings (ROE) Filing

As business owners in South Africa, staying compliant with the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) is not just a legal requirement - it's a vital part of protecting your workforce and your business reputation. One of the most important annual obligations under COIDA is the submission of the Return of Earnings (ROE) to the Compensation Fund. 

With the 2025 filing season now open, there are important updates and deadlines that every employer needs to be aware of. 

Here's what you need to know: 

2025 ROE Filing: Key Dates And Critical Updates

• Filing Period:
  The Compensation Fund's official ROE submission window for the 2024/2025 assessment year is from 1 May 2025 to 30 June 2025. This follows a temporary system shutdown and maintenance, with the online portal now available for submissions. 
  
  
• Assessment Periods: 
  Employers must declare actual earnings for the period 1 March 2024 to 28 February 2025, and provide provisional earnings estimates for 1 March 2025 to 28 February 2026.
  
  
• Updated Earnings Thresholds: 
  The maximum earnings threshold for the 2024/2025 period is R 597 328, increasing to R633 168 for the 2025/2026 provisional period. 
  
  
• Penalties for Late Submission:
  A 10% penalty applies to returns submitted after the 30 June 2025 deadline. 
  
  
• Letter of Good Standing: 
  This crucial document, often required for contract and tender work, is only issued once your ROE is submitted and assessment fees are paid in full.

Why Professional Assistance Matters

Filing your ROE accurately and on time is more complex that it may seem. The Compensation Fund has increased its focus on compliance, with more frequent audits and cross-checks against SARS data. 
Missteps can lead to penalties, interest, and even the loss of your Letter of Good Standing - potentially jeopardising your business opportunities and employee claims. 

As a specialist service provider, we offer: 

• Expert navigation of the ROE process, ensuring accuracy and compliance with the latest regulations
• Deadline management. 
• Accurate earnings verified declarations.
• Audit-ready documentation, securely stored and available for compliance reviews. 
• Hassle-free renewal of your Letter of Good Standing, with all paperwork and payments managed on your behalf. 

The Consequences of Non-Compliance

• Financial Penalties:
  Late or incorrect submissions attract a 10% penalty and interest on overdue payments. 
  
  
• Business Disruption:
  Without a valid Letter of Good Standing, you may be excluded from tenders and contract work. 
  
  
• Risk to Employees: 
  Delayed or denied compensation claims for workplace injuries or diseases can result in reputational and financial damage.
  
  
• Potential Legal Action: 
  The Department of Labour may issue fines for compliance orders for non-compliance. 

A thought on the Law of Compensation

"The law of nature is: Do the thing, and you shall have the power, but they who do not the thing have not the power."

This timeless principle reminds us that diligent action and responsibility bring their own rewards. Int the business context, proactive compliance with COIDA and timely ROE submissions empower your organisation to operate confidently and competitively. 

Ready to Secure your Compliance? 

Don't let administrative burdens or compliance risks stand in the way of your business growth. As experienced service providers, we offer seamless, reliable and fully managed ROE submission service tailored to your business needs. 

Contact us today to ensure your 2025 ROE is filed accurately, on time, and with the complete peace of mind. Let's make 2025 a year of proactive compliance and peace of mind for your business and your employees. 

Follow us for more updates and insights on compliance and business best practices.