SARS to trial major change to auto-assessments
For the first time ever, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) will trial auto-assessments for a select group of provisional taxpayers. Image: SARS
For the first time ever, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) will trial auto-assessments for a select group of provisional taxpayers, making the process quicker and simpler for eligible individuals. SARS will identify eligible provisional taxpayers and invite them to opt into the auto-assessment system
and them to opt into the auto-assessment system This trial begins with notifications from 7 July 2025
If selected and eligible, provisional taxpayers will enjoy the same streamlined auto-assessment process previously available only to non-provisional taxpayers
Auto-assessments are pre-populated tax returns based on third-party data from: Employers (PAYE)
Medical aids
Retirement funds
Banks and insurers
If everything looks correct: You do nothing – your return is automatically processed
– your return is automatically processed Refunds (if due) are paid within 72 business hours
If you owe money, you must pay SARS via eFiling, the MobiApp, or bank
If the info is incomplete or inaccurate: You can edit and submit your return manually via eFiling
Typically: Self-employed individuals
individuals People earning income from multiple sources
Taxpayers who pay advance income tax in two or three instalments each year based on estimated earnings Taxpayer type Opens Closes Auto-Assessments 7 July 2025 20 July 2025 Individual (non-provisional) 21 July 2025 20 October 2025 Provisional 21 July 2025 19 January 2026 Trusts 21 July 2025 19 January 2026 Notification from SARS via SMS or email Log in via eFiling or MobiApp to review your auto-assessment If accurate → do nothing If incomplete/incorrect → file a return with corrections by the relevant deadline Refunds paid within 72 hours (if banking details are correct) Payments due must be settled by the date SARS provides
If you're part of this new provisional taxpayer auto-assessment trial, watch for a SARS invitation and review your return carefully, as more complex income situations often need adjustments.
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