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Labour Law3,221 views1 answerAsked 30 Mar 2026

Is a verbal contract legally binding?

I did R45,000 of work for a client based on a verbal agreement. Now he's refusing to pay and says we never had a contract. Do I have any legal recourse?

D

Danie V.

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Community Answers

J
Justibly Editorial Team

30 Mar 2026

+50 XP

Yes — verbal contracts are legally binding in South Africa for most types of agreements. The challenge is proof. Evidence: WhatsApp or email discussions referencing the work, invoices you sent, witnesses, bank records showing partial payments. Sue in the Magistrate's Court (up to R400k) or High Court for larger amounts.

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