Taxpayers must file a tax return with SARS so that SARS can calculate their tax burden based on the income they declare and the tax-deductible expenses they have incurred during the assessment year. They may result in a return to the taxpayer in some situations. You will be required to file a return during the yearly Tax Season. If you need to file an income tax return, you can do so through one of the following channels:
eFiling on your computer is as simple as signing up for eFiling at www.sarsefiling.co.za.
You can complete and submit your Income Tax Return using the SARS MobiApp (ITR12).
Filing electronically at a SARS branch where a representative will assist you – please bring all supporting papers with you. Remember to schedule an appointment before visiting a branch.
Requesting that a return be mailed to you and then completing and submitting it at a SARS branch.
Have your supporting documentation ready when you finish your return. While completing your return, you may need to refer to some of the supporting papers specified below; nevertheless, you must not submit them to SARS. You must keep them safe for at least five years in case SARS requires access to them in the future.
Your employer will provide you with your IRP5/IT3(a) certificate(s).
Medical certifications and papers are necessary for sums claimed that are not covered by your medical aid.
Certificates of pension and annuity
Your banking information
Travel journal (if you receive a travel allowance)
Tax certificates received in relation to investment income (IT3(b))
Where applicable, completed confirmation of disability diagnosis (ITR-DD – Confirmation of Disability Diagnosis – External Form).
If appropriate, information on capital gain transactions
Where appropriate, the approved Voluntary Disclosure Programme (VDP) Agreement between yourself and SARS for the years previous to 17 February 2010.
Where relevant, financial documents, such as business income
Any other paperwork relevant to the income or deductions you wish to claim.
How much do I have to earn in order to file a tax return in South Africa?
If you are under the age of 65, the fee is R91 250. If you are between the ages of 65 and 75, the tax threshold (the amount at which income tax becomes payable) is R141 250. This threshold is R157 900 for taxpayers aged 75 and beyond.
How much does SARS deduct from your pay?
The deduction is limited to 27.5% of the greater of the PAYE remuneration or taxable income (both excluding retirement fund lump sums and severance benefits). The deduction is also limited to the lesser of R350 000 or 27.5% of taxable income before taxable capital gains.
When can I file my South African tax return for 2022?
1 July 2022
From July 1, 2022 through January 23, 2023
If you are not enrolled in auto-assessment and must file a return, please check our information for provisional and non-provisional taxpayers on the 2022 Tax Filing Season media release.
