SARS introduces new changes ahead of 2025 tax season… all you should know
SARS introduces new changes ahead of 2025 tax season… all you should know
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced a major shift in its 2025 filing season: auto‑assessment will now include provisional taxpayers, and a new “Express Access” tab on eFiling and the MobiApp will simplify the experience for all users. These updates are designed to make tax compliance faster, smarter, and more user‑friendly.
What Is SARS Auto‑Assessment?
Auto‑assessment is SARS’s automated tool that uses third‑party data—pulled from employers, banks, medical aids, retirement funds, and insurers—to pre‑populate and process returns automatically.
If the taxpayer agrees with the data, no return needs to be filed; instead, a refund is paid within 72 hours, or payment is prompted for those who owe taxes.
This year’s change involves extending auto‑assessment to provisional taxpayers—typically those with freelance or multiple sources of income—who were previously excluded.
Eligibility and How to Opt In
From 7 July to 20 July 2025, SARS will send SMS or email notifications to eligible provisional taxpayers, inviting them to express interest and be part of the auto‑assessment pilot.
For standard (non‑provisional) taxpayers, the auto‑assessment window runs from 7 July to 20 July, followed by the official filing season for individuals starting 21 July through 20 October. Provisional taxpayers and trusts may file until 19 January 2026.
Express Access: One‑Stop Filing Hub
A new “Express” tab will appear on eFiling and the SARS MobiApp landing pages. It offers quick access to:
- Viewing current year auto‑assessments
- Submitting returns for the current and prior years
- Updating personal or banking details.
This aligns with SARS’s goal of streamlining service delivery, modernising its systems, and improving taxpayer experience during tax season.
Secure Up‑to‑Date Banking and Contact Details
With faster auto‑refunds and digital communication, up-to-date banking and contact information is essential.
SARS advises taxpayers to verify and update their bank account, mobile number, and email address on eFiling or the MobiApp before filing opens. Incorrect details could delay refunds—or worse, lead to missing crucial IRS communications such as audits, balance demands, or penalty notices.
More Enforcement — SARS Builds “Army” of Enforcers
SARS is also scaling up its enforcement capacity using R1 billion in new funding. Around 1,700 new staff will be hired over the next three months to follow up on audit reminders, collect outstanding debt, and support the auto-assessment rollout. Should gentle reminders fail, SARS may escalate enforcement—including third-party debt collection, legal judgments, garnishments, or asset seizures.
Why These Changes Matter
- Efficiency: Auto‑assessments simplify tax obligations for millions of taxpayers.
- Faster refunds: Accepted returns can result in refunds within 72 hours, reducing financial delays.
- Compliance incentive: Including provisional taxpayers may reduce errors and late submissions.
- Digital transformation: The Express Access feature brings greater transparency and control.
SARS aims to make 2025 the smoothest tax season yet, with more voluntary compliance and less bureaucratic friction.
What Taxpayers Should Do Now
- Check eligibility: Look for the auto‑assessment notification (SMS or email) after 7 July.
- Update key details: Verify banking, contact, and ID data ahead of filing season.
- Review your assessment: If correct, accept it. If not, file manually or amend.
- Know your deadlines:
- Auto‑assessments: 7–20 July 2025
- Individual returns: 21 July – 20 October 2025
- Provisional & trusts: 21 July 2025 – 19 January 2026