SARS eFiling South Africa 2026: How to Register, File Tax Returns and Check Refund Status
SARS eFiling South Africa 2026: How to Register, File Tax Returns and Check Refund Status
What Is SARS eFiling?
SARS eFiling is the South African Revenue Service’s free online platform that allows taxpayers, businesses, and tax practitioners to manage their tax affairs electronically . Through eFiling, you can submit tax returns, make payments, view assessments, update personal details, and track tax refunds without visiting a SARS branch.
The platform is available 24/7 and has been designed to make tax administration faster, safer, and more convenient . With continuous enhancements and new digital compliance requirements in 2026, eFiling remains the primary digital channel for interacting with SARS .
What Can You Do on SARS eFiling?
With SARS eFiling, you can:
- Submit your annual income tax return (ITR12)
- Register for tax
- Check your tax refund status
- Make tax payments
- View tax assessments and download your ITA34 Notice of Assessment
- Update banking and contact details
- Request a Tax Compliance Status (TCS) certificate
- Manage VAT, PAYE, and other tax types
- Access SARS correspondence online
- Submit supporting documents
- View your filing history
2026 Filing Season Key Dates
The 2026 Filing Season for individuals and trusts commenced on 1 July 2026, with the following key dates applicable :
| Taxpayer Type | Filing Period |
|---|---|
| Auto-Assessment Notices | 1 July – 12 July 2026 |
| Non-provisional individuals (not auto-assessed) | 13 July – 23 October 2026 |
| Provisional taxpayers (not auto-assessed) | 13 July 2026 – 22 January 2027 |
| Trusts | 19 September 2026 – 22 January 2027 |
Important: Taxpayers selected for Auto Assessment will receive a notification via SMS or email between 1 and 12 July 2026 .
How to Register for SARS eFiling
Getting started with SARS eFiling is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official SARS website at www.sars.gov.za
- Click the “Login” button, then select “Register”
- Select the taxpayer type that applies to you (Individual, Company, or Trust)
- Enter your personal details (full name, date of birth, contact information)
- Provide your South African ID number (for individuals)
- Enter your tax reference number
- Create a username and secure password
- Complete the verification process
Providing accurate and up-to-date information is essential for successful registration . Your employer will usually register you for a tax reference number when you start working. If this hasn’t been done, you can visit the SARS website to view the different ways to register as a taxpayer .
New Security Features in 2026
Biometric Facial Recognition
From November 2024, SARS introduced biometric facial recognition as an additional security measure for individuals registering with a valid South African ID. This feature is intended to prevent identity fraud and ensure that only authorised users can access the platform .
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
SARS eFiling now requires all users to enable Two-Factor Authentication for enhanced security. This requires users to verify their identity through a One-Time Pin (OTP), sent via SMS, email, or through the SARS MobiApp .
Stricter Password Requirements
Passwords must now include :
- A minimum of 8 characters
- At least one uppercase and one lowercase letter
- A combination of numbers and special characters
How to Log In to SARS eFiling
To access your account:
- Navigate to the SARS website at www.sars.gov.za
- Click “Login”
- Enter your Username and click “Next”
- Enter your Password (the Login button will become active once you’ve entered your password)
- After logging in, you may be required to confirm or update your eFiling Security Contact Details (cell number or email address)
- A One-Time Pin (OTP) will be sent to your preferred method of communication
- Enter the last 6 digits of the OTP and click “Submit”
If you have forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Your Password?” hyperlink on the login screen .
How to Submit Your Tax Return on SARS eFiling
Step 1: Log In
Access your eFiling account using your registered credentials.
Step 2: Open Your Tax Return
Navigate to the “Returns” section and select the relevant tax year .
Step 3: Review Auto-Populated Information
SARS may automatically populate information from employers, banks, medical aid providers, and retirement funds . You are required to verify whether the information is correct .
Step 4: Update Missing Information
Add any income, deductions, investments, or supporting details that may not be reflected.
Step 5: Submit Your Return
Review all information carefully before submitting.
Step 6: Receive Assessment
SARS will issue an assessment showing whether you owe tax or qualify for a refund. Once accepted, the Notice of Assessment (ITA34) will be available on eFiling .
Auto Assessment: What You Need to Know
SARS may issue an Auto Assessment based on third-party data received from employers, banks, medical schemes, retirement funds, and insurers .
If you receive an Auto Assessment notification:
- Review the assessment by logging into eFiling or the SARS MobiApp
- If everything is correct: No further action is required
- If information is incorrect: Add missing details and submit your updated ITR12
If you do not receive a notification by 12 July 2026, you are not auto-assessed and must complete and submit your Personal Income Tax Return (ITR12) from 13 July 2026 .
To check if you will be auto-assessed, visit “My Auto Assessment Status” on the SARS Online Query System (SOQS) .
How Long Does a SARS Refund Take?
According to the SARS Service Charter, SARS aims to pay 90% of refunds over R100 within 72 hours .
However, processing times can vary depending on:
- Whether your banking details are correct
- Whether you have submitted all outstanding returns
- Whether you are being audited or under verification
If SARS requests supporting documents, submit them within 21 business days to avoid delays .
How to Check Your SARS Refund Status
You can track your refund using any of these digital channels :
| Channel | How to Use |
|---|---|
| SARS WhatsApp | Send “Hi” or “Hello” to 0800 11 7277, select “Refund Status”, enter your ID/passport/asylum seeker number, provide your tax reference number |
| SARS MobiApp | Tap “Refund Status” on the home screen and follow the prompts |
| SARS USSD | Dial *134*7277#, choose Option 3, enter your ID/passport/asylum seeker number |
| SARS eFiling | Log in and view your assessment notice |
Common SARS eFiling Problems and Solutions
Based on real issues reported by taxpayers and practitioners in 2026 :
Forgotten Password / Login Issues
- Use the “Forgot Your Password?” option on the login screen
- If password reset emails aren’t being sent, try switching browsers as this may be a browser compatibility issue
Biometric Verification Failure
Locked Account
- Too many failed login attempts may temporarily lock your profile
- Wait for the lockout period to expire or contact SARS support
Banking Details Verification
- Ensure your banking information matches your identification records
- Update banking details through eFiling if your old account is closed
Tax Products Not Appearing
- If registered tax types aren’t visible under “Manage Tax Types,” you may need to activate them correctly
Duplicate Tax Reference Numbers
- This can occur across tax types (VAT, PAYE, Income Tax). Contact SARS to resolve duplicate registrations
Outdated Contact Details
- Outdated information can prevent you from logging in after selecting your OTP delivery method
- Update your security contact details through eFiling
International Access
- Taxpayers abroad who lose access to registered contact methods may be locked out of their profiles. Contact SARS for assistance
Benefits of Using SARS eFiling
- Convenience: Submit tax returns and documents online 24/7
- Accessibility: Manage your tax affairs from anywhere with internet access
- Efficiency: Streamlined submission and the ability to save returns and submit later
- Accuracy: Built-in checks and validations reduce errors
- Security: Encryption and security measures protect your personal and financial information
- Timely Updates: SMS and email notifications remind you when submissions are due
- Full History: Access to all submissions, payments, and correspondence at a click
- Request Corrections: Revise returns previously submitted to SARS
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SARS eFiling free?
Yes. SARS eFiling is a free service provided by the South African Revenue Service .
Can I file my tax return using my phone?
Yes. SARS offers mobile access through eFiling and the SARS MobiApp. You can also check refund status via WhatsApp and USSD .
Do I need supporting documents?
In many cases, SARS receives information automatically from employers and financial institutions. However, you should keep all supporting documents (IRP5s, medical-aid certificates, retirement annuity certificates) for a period of five years in case verification is requested .
How do I get my tax number?
You can retrieve your tax number through SARS eFiling, the SARS MobiApp, or by contacting SARS directly. Your employer will usually register you for a tax reference number when you start working .
What happens if I miss the tax filing deadline?
Late submissions may result in penalties and interest charges depending on your circumstances. Always check the filing season deadlines .
What is the tax threshold for individuals?
If you earn more than R95,750 in a tax year (roughly R8,000 per month), after allowable deductions and rebates, you are officially in the tax net .
What is a provisional taxpayer?
You are generally regarded as a provisional taxpayer if your non-salary income (freelance work, rental income, investment income) exceeds R30,000 in a tax year .
What documents do I need to keep?
- IRP5 – Employment income and PAYE deducted
- IT3(b) – Interest and other investment income
- IT3(c) – Capital gains
- IT3(f) – Retirement fund contributions
- IT3(s) – Tax-free savings account income
Final Thoughts
SARS eFiling has become the preferred way for South Africans to manage their tax obligations. Whether you’re filing your annual tax return, checking a refund, updating your details, or requesting a Tax Compliance Status certificate, eFiling provides a secure and efficient solution.
For the 2026 Filing Season, with Auto Assessment notifications being sent from 1 to 12 July, it’s particularly important to review your assessment carefully. If you agree with the assessment, no further action is required. If you need to make corrections, you can submit your updated return through eFiling.
By keeping your information accurate, submitting returns on time, and using the digital self-service channels available, you can avoid penalties and ensure a smoother tax season.
Key resources for 2026:
- Auto Assessment Waiting Room: Available during peak periods for eligible individual taxpayers to view results in read-only mode
- SARS WhatsApp: View your Notice of Assessment (ITA34) and upload supporting documents
- SOQS (SARS Online Query System): Submit queries, track requests, and update personal details
