Tax season to kick off in August

The new tax filing season will kick off in two months' time.  If taxpayers submit their returns via e-Filing, SARS says this can be done from the 1st of July.

"The tax filing season starts on 1 August 2019 for all taxpayers who file their tax returns. Taxpayers are encouraged to use one of our online channels to file electronically - either e-filing or mobi app. Taxpayers can make use of the WiFi offering should they want to come in and register for e-filing." 

SARS commissioner, Edward Kieswetter has been briefing the media in Pretoria this morning.   

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"For taxpayers that use online e-filing, that's e-filing with the mobi app, the closing date for them is 4 December. Those who go into SARS's branches, can file their returns until the end of October," Kieswetter said. 

Kieswetter says the tax return threshold has been lifted from R350 000 to R500 000. He explained the criteria that must be met so that taxpayers do not have to submit a tax return:

Kieswetter has given a stern warning against those who don't file their taxes on time. He says it is a criminal offence to not submit any tax returns.