B-BBEE Sworn Affidavit — EME Companion Guide

What this is

A B-BBEE Sworn Affidavit is a sworn declaration that a small business (an Exempted Micro Enterprise, or EME) can use instead of a B-BBEE Verification Certificate to prove its B-BBEE status for tendering and supplier registration purposes.

This page is a companion guide only. BidBetter does not reproduce the official affidavit. Always download and use the latest official affidavit template from the dtic / your sector code authority.

When an EME affidavit may be used

A business may typically use an EME Sworn Affidavit if:

• It has annual turnover of R10 million or less (the EME threshold under the Generic Codes — sector codes may differ).
• It has not been verified by an accredited B-BBEE verification agency.
• It is presenting B-BBEE status for procurement, supplier registration, or tender submission.

Threshold rules and recognised templates change. Sector codes (Construction, ICT, Tourism, etc.) sometimes use different thresholds and dedicated affidavit forms. Always confirm the current rules on an official source.

What information is usually needed

Before you go to a Commissioner of Oaths, have the following ready:

• Full registered company name (matching CIPC).
• Company registration number.
• Trading name, if different.
• Business physical address.
• Annual turnover (most recent financial year).
• Black ownership %.
• Black female ownership %.
• Black designated group ownership %, if applicable.
• ID number and full name of the deponent (usually a director).
• The B-BBEE level you are claiming (typical: EME ≥51% black-owned = Level 2; 100% black-owned = Level 1).

How to use the affidavit

1. Download the latest official template from a recognised official source.
2. Complete every field in black ink (or type and print).
3. Do not sign before you reach the Commissioner of Oaths.
4. Take an original ID document with you.
5. Sign in front of the Commissioner of Oaths (a SAPS officer, attorney, or someone gazetted as a Commissioner of Oaths).
6. The Commissioner stamps and signs the affidavit.
7. Make a clean scan and at least 2 colour copies.
8. Keep the original in your compliance file. Submit a certified copy with each tender unless the tender specifies otherwise.

Common mistakes

• Using an outdated template (always check the date / version on the document).
• Signing the affidavit before seeing the Commissioner of Oaths.
• Inconsistencies between the affidavit and the CSD record (registered name, directors, registration number).
• Using a Generic affidavit when your sector requires a sector-specific one (e.g. Construction Sector affidavit).
• Listing the wrong B-BBEE level based on an incorrect ownership calculation.
• Filing an affidavit older than 12 months — affidavits typically expire after 1 year.

Before-you-sign checklist

• [ ] You confirmed the latest version of the affidavit on an official source.
• [ ] All numbers (turnover, ownership %) match your latest financials.
• [ ] All names match CIPC and the deponent's ID.
• [ ] You have your ID document with you.
• [ ] The deponent (director / member) is the one signing.
• [ ] You are using the correct affidavit for your sector code (or the Generic Codes if no sector code applies).

Disclaimer

This is general guidance only and is not legal, accounting, or B-BBEE advice. B-BBEE rules change frequently, and the Generic Codes interact with specific Sector Codes. If you are unsure, consult an accredited B-BBEE verification agency or a qualified B-BBEE consultant.