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A Certificate of Authority proves that someone can legally act on behalf of a company or organization in South Africa. It's commonly used when signing contracts, opening bank accounts, or dealing with government departments - showing that the person has proper permission to make decisions and handle official matters.

Under South African company law, this document must clearly state the bearer's powers and limitations. Companies often issue these certificates to directors, senior managers, or designated representatives, giving them the formal backing to conduct specific business activities. The certificate helps protect both the organization and third parties by clearly documenting who has authority to act.

Use a Certificate of Authority when sending employees or representatives to handle significant business transactions in South Africa. This becomes essential for opening corporate bank accounts, signing major contracts, bidding on government tenders, or representing your company in legal proceedings.

Banks and government departments typically need this certificate before allowing anyone to act on behalf of your organization. Having it ready saves time and prevents delays, especially for urgent matters. It's particularly important when your main directors can't be present personally, or when multiple branches need authorized signatories for daily operations.

• General Business Authority: Grants broad powers for daily operations, including signing contracts and financial transactions
• Limited Scope Authority: Restricts representatives to specific actions or transactions with clear monetary limits
• Branch Office Authority: Enables regional managers to conduct business within their geographical area
• Special Purpose Authority: Used for one-time events like property purchases or major tenders
• Banking Authority: Specifically designed for banking operations, detailing signing powers and transaction limits

• Company Directors: Issue and sign Certificates of Authority to delegate powers to others within their organization
• Senior Managers: Receive authority to act on behalf of the company for specific business activities
• Legal Departments: Draft and review certificates to ensure proper scope and compliance with company policies
• Banks: Require and verify these certificates before allowing corporate account access or transactions
• Government Departments: Accept these certificates as proof of representative authority in official dealings
• Company Secretaries: Maintain records of active certificates and ensure they remain current

• Company Details: Gather full registered name, registration number, and principal business address
• Representative Information: Collect ID details, position, and contact information of the person receiving authority
• Scope Definition: List specific powers being granted, including any monetary or decision-making limits
• Time Period: Specify the duration for which the authority remains valid
• Board Resolution: Obtain board meeting minutes approving the delegation of authority
• Signature Requirements: Identify directors authorized to sign the certificate under company constitution
• Company Seal: Have the company seal ready if required by your organization's policies

• Company Identification: Full legal name, registration number, and registered address of the authorizing entity
• Representative Details: Name, ID number, and position of the person receiving authority
• Powers Granted: Clear description of authorized activities and any limitations
• Duration Clause: Specific start and end dates of the authority
• Governing Law: Statement confirming South African law applies
• Revocation Terms: Conditions under which the authority can be withdrawn
• Authentication Section: Director signatures, company seal space, and witness provisions
• Board Resolution Reference: Citation of the authorizing board decision

People often confuse a Certificate of Authority with a Letter of Authority. While both documents grant permission to act on behalf of someone else, they serve different purposes and have distinct legal weights in South African law.

• Legal Status: A Certificate of Authority is a formal corporate document, while a Letter of Authority is typically issued by the Master of the High Court for deceased estates
• Scope of Power: Certificates of Authority focus on business transactions and corporate representation, while Letters of Authority specifically empower executors to handle estate administration
• Duration: Corporate Certificates usually have defined validity periods, while Letters of Authority remain valid until estate administration is complete
• Issuing Authority: Companies issue Certificates through board resolutions, whereas only the High Court can issue Letters of Authority