2025 SARS filing season officially opens: Everything you should know about key dates and guidelines
The filing season is open from July 7 to October 20.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced the start of the 2025 tax filing season, which, for non-provisional taxpayers, will run from July 7 to October 20. Provisional taxpayers and trusts have until January 19, 2026, to file their returns.
This year’s filing season again includes auto assessments, which apply to a large group of individual taxpayers whose tax affairs are relatively simple. These taxpayers will receive notifications via SMS or email between July 7 and 20.
The SARS encourages taxpayers to prepare their documents early and review their assessment results to avoid last-minute delays.
Who will be auto-assessed?
Taxpayers who receive income from one or more formal sources, such as employers, pension funds and medical aids, and whose tax matters are straightforward, may be selected for auto assessment.
These assessments are made possible through third-party data submitted to the SARS by various institutions. Taxpayers in this group will not need to file a return unless they find discrepancies or missing information in their auto-assessed return.
“If taxpayers agree with the auto-assessment, no further action is required. If they do not, they can edit and submit a corrected return via eFiling or the SARS MobiApp by October 20,” the SARS stated.
If a refund is due, the SARS will process it within 72 business hours, provided all information is accurate and banking details are correct. If tax is owed, payment must be made through the SARS’ official channels, including eFiling, the SARS MobiApp, or bank deposits.
Filing dates for other taxpayers:
• Taxpayers who do not receive auto-assessment notifications must file their returns between July 21 and October 20. These people typically have more complex tax affairs.
• Provisional taxpayers and trusts will have a longer submission window running from July 21 to January 19, 2026.
Key reminders from the SARS:
• Ensure you update your banking and security contact details (email and mobile number) on eFiling;
• Do not update your banking details if nothing has changed;
• Access your assessment via eFiling, the SARS MobiApp or the official SARS channels.
If you’re unsure about your auto-assessment or return requirements, consult the SARS website or contact their support channels.
The SARS has improved support for this season, including:
• enhanced online filing platforms;
• extended customer service hours;
• updated guidance on SARS’s website and YouTube channel;
• stronger data security protocols.
The SARS urges taxpayers to comply with deadlines and ensure the accuracy of their information to avoid penalties. For enquiries, contact SARS through their interactive channels or on SARSMedia@sars.gov.za
