Free small-business tool
B-BBEE Level Checker for Small Businesses (EME & QSE)
Find out your business's B-BBEE category and likely level from your turnover and black ownership — and whether a simple affidavit is all you need.
General guidance based on the generic B-BBEE codes. Sector charters and other rules may apply — confirm with a B-BBEE verification agency.
EME vs QSE vs Generic
- EME (Exempt Micro Enterprise) — turnover under R10 million. Automatically Level 4; Level 2 if 51%+ black-owned, Level 1 if 100% black-owned. Only needs a signed affidavit — no verification.
- QSE (Qualifying Small Enterprise) — turnover R10m to R50m. If 51%+ black-owned, qualifies for Level 2 (or Level 1 at 100%) on an affidavit; otherwise measured on the QSE scorecard.
- Generic (large) — turnover above R50 million. Must be verified on the full scorecard.
Frequently asked questions
Does a small business need a B-BBEE certificate?
EMEs and most black-owned QSEs only need a sworn affidavit confirming turnover and ownership — a full verification certificate isn't required.
Where do I get a B-BBEE affidavit?
You can complete the CIPC/DTI EME or QSE affidavit and have it commissioned (sworn) at a police station or by a commissioner of oaths, free of charge.
Related calculators & guides
Know your turnover at a glance
360books tracks your turnover in real time — handy for B-BBEE, VAT and tax thresholds.
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