WATCH: SARS releases video guide for taxpayers, explains how auto assessment works
Received a SARS auto assessment? Here’s what it means and what steps to take next. Photo by Gallo Images/Business Day/Freddy Mavunda
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has begun issuing auto assessment notices for the 2025 tax season, with batches being sent out via SMS and email between 7 and 20 July 2025. The move is part of SARS’ continued effort to make the tax filing process easier, faster, and more accessible to compliant taxpayers.
The auto assessment system is based on third-party data SARS receives from employers, medical schemes, banks, and retirement fund administrators. This pre-populated return is aimed at reducing the need for manual filing in cases where SARS already has sufficient data to calculate a taxpayer’s position.
What to Do If You Receive an Auto Assessment
Taxpayers who receive their auto assessment notice have two options:
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If you agree with the assessment: You don’t need to take any further action. SARS will automatically process any refund due within 72 hours and deposit it directly into your registered bank account.
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If you disagree with the assessment or believe information is missing or incorrect, you can immediately file your Income Tax Return via eFiling or the SARS MobiApp. There’s no need to wait until the official opening date of 21 July—you can submit your return right away.
SARS Releases Video Guide for Taxpayers
To make the process even simpler, SARS has published a video tutorial explaining how auto assessments work and what steps taxpayers should take depending on their situation. The video is available on the SARS website and YouTube channel, and forms part of a broader digital campaign to enhance voluntary compliance during the 2025 tax season.
Final Note
Taxpayers are encouraged to monitor their SMS and email inboxes during this period and act promptly based on the content of their auto assessment. Those needing assistance can use digital channels such as the SARS Online Query System, WhatsApp, and AI Chatbot Lwazi.
Below are videos explaining the process:
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