In South Africa, how do you file your tax return?
If you work in South Africa, your employer will deduct your SARS income tax contributions from your pay, but you must still file an annual South African income tax return.
You must be a registered South African taxpayer with a SARS income tax number. This is usually done through your company; otherwise, learn how to join South African social security.
You can file your tax return on paper or online after you have your SARS income tax number. A hardcopy copy of the form is available from your local SARS office. To file a South African tax return online, you must first sign up for eFiling.
Provisional income tax return
If you receive an income other than a wage from your job, you must pay their tax through the South African provisional tax system. This is done to stretch the tax liability over the course of the year. During the year, you will make two upfront payments based on your projected taxable income. The tax return form will then be filed together with the final balance owed.
South African income tax deadlines
The current tax year in South Africa runs from 1 March 2022 to 28 February 2023. The tax season, when persons must file their income tax returns, normally runs from July through November, depending on the manner of tax filing. When they are announced, the 2022 tax season deadlines will be posted here.
South African income tax forms
Form ITR12 is the South African income tax return for individuals. You will need the following items to complete the form:
your financial statements
information on all types of income and allowances/deductions included in the form
your tax identification number
if appropriate, your employee tax certificate (IRP5/IT3a)
IT3b certificates for any investment income
Details about contributions made that do not appear on your IRP5/IT3a certificate can be seen on your medical aid certificate.
How can I prepare my own tax return?
Understand the Deadlines for Filing.
Check to see if you need to file anything.
Examine Your Previous Year’s Documents
Gather all of the necessary documents.
Select between Standard or Itemized Deductions.
If necessary, include a state tax filing.
Examine all of your forms and data.
If necessary, request an extension.
How does taxation work in South Africa?
Taxpayers must file a tax return with SARS so that we can determine your tax liability based on the income you declare and the tax-deductible expenses you spent during the assessment year. It may result in a refund in some situations. You will be required to file a return during the yearly Filing Season.
What happens if you fail to file a tax return in South Africa?
Taxpayers who fail to file their tax returns will be fined an administrative penalty, which must be paid to SARS. Top Tip: Whether you agree or disagree with the administrative penalty, it is best to submit the outstanding return to avoid further administrative penalties.
How do I find out whether SARS owes me money?
If SARS owes you money, the amount of the refund and the date of payment will appear on your Statement of Account (ITSA). Login to eFiling and select the Statement of Account icon in the upper right corner of your screen.
