The South African Revenue Service (SARS) Commissioner, Edward Kieswetter, has reminded non-provincial taxpayers that they have until today to submit their annual Income-Tax returns, to avoid penalties.
The commissioner said the service has made every effort to simplify and support the filing process, through enhanced digital platforms, auto assessment, and accessible helplines.
Kieswetter has emphasised the legal obligation to file the returns on time, in full, and not to abdicate their tax obligations.
“Failure to submit a return by the deadline is a serious offence, and non-compliance can lead to administrative penalties and interest charges.
“As part of our strategic focus to encourage voluntary compliance and enforce the law, SARS will continue to identify and act against those who do not meet their tax obligation,” said Kieswetter.
He also commended 80% of taxpayers who filed their returns before today’s deadline, which includes about 6 million who have been auto assessed and received their refunds within 72 hours.
SARS said this commitment to compliance plays a vital role in building a capable state and funding essential public services and is also making a difference in the lives of so many of our people.
The commissioner also cautioned taxpayers not to wait until the last minute to file their returns, hoping to meet the deadline.
“However, rushing invites errors, misjudgements, unnecessary stress, and long queues at SARS branches. SARS urges taxpayers to submit returns while there is still time to think clearly and avoid mistakes. Filing early protects taxpayers from penalties and ensures a refund, if due, which is payable in 72 hours,” cautioned Kieswetter.
The commissioner said 7.9 million non-provisional taxpayers have already filed their tax returns, with more than 854 408 still outstanding.
In the 2024 tax year, over 6.7 million non-provisional taxpayers filed their income-tax returns, including those who were auto-assessed.
