Taxpayers urged to meet filing season deadline

Non-provisional taxpayers are reminded by Sars to file their tax returns on or before the deadline of November 23. Penalties will be levied on taxpayers who fail to submit their income tax returns by this deadline.

Taxpayers must note that according to changes in legislation, Sars will levy penalties from December 1, where one or more returns is outstanding.

Taxpayers who received auto-assessments must edit or accept their assessments by November 23. If they do not, they will receive an estimated assessment, which is not subject to objection or appeal.

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However, a taxpayer who is not in agreement with the estimated assessment issued after November 23 may file a complete and accurate tax return within 40 business days of the date of the estimated assessment.

Such a return will be late, which means that the normal penalties and interest for late submission will apply (where applicable).

Sars commissioner Edward Kieswetter said the filing of a tax return is a legal obligation for those taxpayers who are required to file and contributes towards a culture of voluntary compliance.

“But beyond the legal requirement to file a return, taxpayers who do the right thing are enabling the government to meet the basic service needs of the poor and vulnerable by providing social grants and health care, amongst others.”

The commissioner added, “Sars has put in place several upgraded digital channels that are available 24/7. This will help provide clarity and make it easy for taxpayers to meet the deadline of November 23 without any difficulty.

“These channels include, amongst others, Sars eFiling, Sars MobiApp and SMS service. More details are available on the Sars website.”

Provisional taxpayers have until January 31, 2022, to fulfil all their filing obligations.

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