Tax payers to use digital channels as SARS offices stay closed

ALL provisional taxpayers will be expected to file their returns via digital channels as the South African Revenue Service (SARS) offices continue to operate remotely. The deadline for submissions is 29 January 2021.

While SARS previously said its branches would re-open on 18 January, SARS management decided to further suspend physical visits to branches following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent address.

In a statement, SARS said their branches will engage with taxpayers via the use of virtual meetings using Microsoft Teams.

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“In light of the evolving Covid-19 pandemic situation, SARS is convinced that transacting through virtual branches will be the only way in which it will continue to deliver its public services to taxpayers for the foreseeable future. SARS will also continue to assist taxpayers through its Contact Centre,” read the statement.

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The public is urged to use the electronic channels on the SARS website or visit the virtual SARS branch for assistance.

“All new bookings via the SARS website will be honoured via a virtual engagement (Microsoft Teams or telephonic engagement). The SARS Contact Centre will continue to service any queries from members of the public,” read the statement.

For more information or to book an appointment, visit the SARS website. 

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