SARS 2025 auto-assessment: Step-by-step guide to navigate the process

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has once again activated its auto-assessment system as part of efforts to streamline the 2025 tax filing season. Designed primarily for individuals with simple tax profiles—such as salaried earners with standard deductions—the auto-assessment system eliminates the need for manual filing, provided all financial data submitted by third parties (like employers, banks, and medical aids) is accurate.

However, while this process is intended to save time and effort, taxpayers are strongly advised to review the details carefully before accepting the pre-populated returns. Errors in third-party submissions, omitted income, or unclaimed deductions could result in overpayment, underpayment, or SARS penalties.

To ensure that you don’t fall into any of these traps, here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to navigating your SARS auto-assessment for the 2025 tax year.

Step 1: Know the Key Dates

Auto-assessments are being issued from 7 July to 20 July 2025. During this period, eligible taxpayers will receive SMS or email notifications. If you are not auto-assessed, you can manually file your return from 21 July to 20 October 2025 (for non-provisional taxpayers). Provisional taxpayers and trusts have until 19 January 2026.

Step 2: Check Your Auto-Assessment Status

Once you receive a notification from SARS, visit the SARS website and use the Online Query System (SOQS). Click on “My Auto-Assessment Status” to confirm whether your return has been auto-assessed. Do not attempt to file or amend your return until your status has been officially confirmed.

Step 3: Access the Pre-Populated Return

Log in to SARS eFiling, the SARS MobiApp, or use the 1347277# USSD code. From there, access your preloaded income tax return. Review all figures sourced from your employer, medical aid, retirement annuity fund, and any other third-party data providers.

Step 4: Review the Third-Party Data

Navigate to the Third Party Data Certificate Search on eFiling to compare what SARS received versus your actual documents (IRP5s, medical aid tax certificates, investment certificates, etc.). This step is crucial to ensure that all your income and deductions have been accurately recorded.

Step 5: Accept or Reject the Auto-Assessment

• If all the details are correct: Click “Accept.” If you’re due a refund above R100, it will be paid within 72 hours. Refunds below R100 will be carried over to future tax years.

• If there are errors or missing data: Reject the assessment. Complete and submit your own tax return using the ITR12 form. Be sure to do this by 20 October 2025 to avoid late penalties.

Step 6: Fix Errors in Third-Party Data

If any information from third parties (e.g., employer, medical aid, bank) is incorrect, you cannot edit it directly. You must contact the respective organisation and request that they resubmit the corrected data to SARS. After correction, revisit your eFiling profile to ensure updates reflect.

Step 7: Manage Refunds or Payments

• If you’re owed a refund (R100+), SARS will pay it to your registered bank account within 72 hours of acceptance.

• If you owe SARS more than R100, payment must be made by the due date listed in your ITA34. Interest and penalties may apply for late payments.

  
  
  

Step 8: Keep Track of the Filing Deadlines

If you disagree with the auto-assessment or need to file a revised return, you must do so within 40 business days from the date of your assessment notice. For most taxpayers, the final deadline is 20 October 2025. Provisional taxpayers have until 19 January 2026.

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Step 9: Use Support Channels If Needed

SARS offers various support tools:

• Live Chat Agent or Lwazi Chatbot via eFiling or the MobiApp

• WhatsApp support at 0800 11 7277

• Help YouTube videos via SARS’s official website

• SARS Contact Centre: 0800 00 7277

Use these platforms if you get stuck, have data issues, or need help filing manually.

Step 10: Stay Vigilant Against Scams

SARS will never ask for your banking details, passwords, or personal tax information via email, SMS, or phone. Always verify any communication and report suspicious messages to [email protected].

Final Takeaway

SARS auto-assessments offer a streamlined, tech-driven approach to tax filing—but they’re not entirely hands-off. Every taxpayer must review their preloaded return thoroughly before accepting. Whether you’re due a refund, owe money, or need to update third-party data, staying proactive and informed is the key to avoiding errors and penalties this tax season.

Let me know if you’d like this converted into a graphic guide or printable checklist for wider public engagement.