Tax Season | How to effortlessly file your SARS return in 20 minutes
It's tax season!
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The South African Revenue Service (Sars) has officially launched the 2025 tax season, calling on all eligible taxpayers to submit their annual income tax returns.
Sars has reminded the public that submitting a return is a legal obligation and forms the basis upon which the tax authority assesses whether a taxpayer owes money or is due a refund.
"Taxpayers are required to submit a tax return to Sars in order that Sars can calculate their tax liability based on the income they declare and the tax-deductible expenses they have incurred for a year of assessment," said the revenue service.
Sars added that in some cases; after completing the assessment, a refund may be due to the taxpayer.
Who must file?
Not everyone is required to file an income tax return, but those who earn above a certain threshold, have multiple sources of income, or wish to claim deductions, are expected to file. Taxpayers are encouraged to check their filing requirements on the Sars website or via the Sars MobiApp.
What documents are required?
Taxpayers must gather and refer to relevant supporting documentation while completing the return.
Sars warned that although these documents are not required to be submitted upfront, they must be retained for a minimum of five years in case Sars requests them for verification.
"You must keep them safely in your possession for at least five years in case Sars needs access to them in future," said Sars.
Here is a list of commonly required documents
IRP5/IT3(a) certificates from your employer(s).
Medical aid tax certificates and related medical documentation for claims not covered by your medical scheme.
Pension fund and retirement annuity certificates.
Bank account details for processing refunds or payments.
Travel logbook if you receive a travel allowance or claim travel expenses.
IT3(b) tax certificates for investment income.
Capital gains documentation, if you disposed of assets.
ITR-DD form for disability claims.
Voluntary Disclosure Programme (VDP) agreement, if applicable for years prior to February 17, 2010.
Financial statements, if you are declaring business income or rental income.
Any other income or deduction-related documents, such as invoices, receipts, or contractual agreements.
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