Get ready, South Africa! SARS has officially announced the dates for the 2025 tax season. Mark your calendars: the season kicks off on July 7th and wraps up on October 20th. To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, SARS is urging taxpayers to get their ducks in a row early.
Key Dates for SARS Tax Season 2025:
- July 7th: Tax season officially opens & auto-assessment notifications begin.
- July 7th - July 20th: SARS sends notifications for automatic assessments.
- July 21st: Taxpayers encouraged to submit returns if not auto-assessed.
- October 20th: Deadline for submitting tax returns.
What's New This Year?
Like previous years, SARS will again use automatic assessments for a significant number of taxpayers. If you're selected, you'll receive a notification between July 7th and 20th. This auto-assessment process is based on information submitted to SARS by third parties, such as employers, pension funds, and medical aid schemes.
Important Tips to Prepare:
To avoid delays and potential issues, SARS advises taxpayers to:
- Gather all necessary documentation (I believe it's worth checking the SARS website to make sure they have all necessary documents).
- Update personal information, especially banking details, on eFiling.
- Verify your security contact details (email and cellphone number) on SARS eFiling.
What if My Auto-Assessment is Incorrect?
If you believe the automatically captured information is incomplete or inaccurate, you can amend your tax return and submit it via eFiling by October 20th.
Stay Informed
For the latest updates and guidance, be sure to visit the official SARS website. Don't wait until the last minute! Preparing early can save you time, stress, and potential penalties.