Electronic filing (eFiling) through the SARS eFiling website is a way of submitting your tax returns electronically. This method of submitting your returns removes the risks and problems of manually sending in your tax returns.

Before submitting your tax returns, you first need to complete the registration process on www.sarsefiling.co.za. Click on ‘Register’. 

The main benefits for taxpayers of eFiling are that it is simple, much faster and more convenient. The other benefits include:

• Being able to view all form-related correspondence with sars
• Being able to view history of payments and forms submitted online
• Help facilities and online guides
• Due-date reminders via sms and email
• Tax forms and payment tracking
• Electronic confirmation of all transactions
• Request for extensions
• Request for tax directives

WHAT IS THE COST?

The eFiling service is offered at no charge. However, normal service charges for Internet Banking payments will apply.

WHAT ARE THE STEPS INVOLVED?

There are three options to register for tax:

1. Automatic registration for personal income tax

To register on eFiling go to www.sarsefiling.co.za.Click on ‘Register’ and follow the prompts. You can also register for SARS eFiling on the SARS MobiApp and follow the same steps.

When you register for SARS eFiling for the first time and you do not have a tax reference number, SARS will automatically register you and issue a tax reference number. You must have a valid South African ID to register for eFiling.

2. Register through your employer with SARS eFiling

Ask your employer to register you with SARS. eFiling allows employers to register their employees with SARS for income tax. 

3. Register at a SARS branch office

You can visit a SARS branch, where a service consultant can help you register for tax. Remember to take all important documents such as your original ID document.  

For more information, contact the eFiling Call Centre on 0800 00 7277 [08h00 to 16h30, except Wednesdays: 09h00 to 16h30, and excluding weekends and Public Holidays,  or visit the website: www.sarsefiling.co.za.