SARS auto-assessment: Here’s what to do if you were excluded
Got questions about SARS auto-assessment? Here’s how to check if you're eligible and what to do if you're excluded.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has introduced an expanded auto-assessment process for the 2025 tax season, aiming to reduce the burden on taxpayers.
Most taxpayers will have their income tax returns automatically assessed but some may be excluded due to complex tax profiles, reports IOL.
How SARS Auto-Assessment Works
SARS uses data from employers, financial institutions, medical schemes, retirement fund administrators and other third-party data providers to populate your income tax return and calculate your income tax assessment.
If you agree with your auto-assessment, there's nothing further to be done.
Why Some Taxpayers Are Excluded
Taxpayers with complex tax profiles are excluded from auto-assessment. Complexity can arise from factors such as:
Rental or Business Income: Income from rental properties or businesses.
Commission Income: Income earned from commissions.
Independent Contractor Income: Income earned as an independent contractor.
Foreign Income: Income earned from foreign sources.
Trust Income: Income earned from trusts.
Travel Allowances: Allowances received for travel.
Capital Gains Tax: Tax on capital gains from the sale of assets.
Other reasons for exclusion include:
Invalid Address: Invalid postal or physical address.
Demographic Data Mismatch: Demographic data does not match.
Outstanding Audits or Verifications: Ongoing audits or verifications.
Changes to Previous Auto-Assessment: Changes and amendments made to the auto-assessment in the previous tax year.
What to Do If You're Excluded
If you're excluded from auto-assessment, you'll need to submit a personal income tax return. You can do this through SARS eFiling or the SARS MobiApp.
Key Dates
Auto-Assessment Notices: 7 - 20 July 2025
Filing Season for Non-Provisional Taxpayers: 21 July - 20 October 2025
Filing Season for Provisional Taxpayers: 21 July 2025 - 19 January 2026
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