Five easy steps to eFiling

Last updated on 13th December, 2017 at 10:27 am

SARS has made it easier than ever for you to do your own tax return through eFiling. It may seem daunting at first, but don’t be scared of the technology. If you can use Facebook, you can eFile – all you need is access to a secure computer.

Step 1

You need to assess whether or not you need to submit a tax return (ITR12) in the first place, because not everybody does. If you are an individual who earns less than R250 000 per year (income before tax) from one employer, don’t have a car allowance or any extra income to declare or extra deductions to claim for, then you do not need to.

Step 2

If you do need to submit a tax return (ITR12) and are a registered taxpayer, then your next step is to register on the SARS eFiling system on the website www.sarsefiling.co.za. Once you press the REGISTER button, you follow a six-step process and fill in a form that takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 3

You will need to have your tax registration number/s, your ID number and various personal details to hand, so gather as many relevant personal details as possible before you start. Think of a suitable password and write it down somewhere safe.

Step 4

Once you are registered as an eFiler, you can file a return, make payments, request a tax clearance certificate among other services on the eFiling website. To file your return just click on the relevant form you need – ITR12. Those with a company or needing VAT etc can select more documents.

Step 5

If you need to send through copies of supporting documents then you can either fax them, or scan and attach them. Or even post or hand-deliver them. SARS will then notify you of receipt of your tax return, either through your SARS eFiling profile page or via text on SMS. In extreme or urgent cases they will call you. Once they have assessed you properly, they will either tell you how much you have to pay them or how much they owe you.

By Paul Kerton