SARS opens 2025 tax season on July 7

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has confirmed that the 2025 individual tax filing season will open on July 7, 2025 and close on October 20, for non-provisional taxpayers. This period includes automatic assessments for qualifying taxpayers and standard submissions for others.

According to SARS, a large group of individual taxpayers will again be subject to automatic assessment. These assessments are based on third-party data from employers, pension funds, medical schemes, and other institutions. Taxpayers selected for automatic assessment will receive notifications via SMS or email between July 7 and 20.

Individuals who do not receive an automatic assessment notification are required to file their income tax returns between July 21 and October 20. Provisional taxpayers and trusts have until January 19, 2026 to complete their submissions.

Taxpayers are advised to verify that their banking and contact details are correct on the SARS eFiling system to facilitate processing, including potential refunds. There is no requirement to update details if there have been no changes.

SARS states that taxpayers who are satisfied with the automatic assessment issued to them do not need to take further action. Where taxpayers identify missing or incorrect information in the assessment, they may submit corrections via SARS eFiling or the SARS MobiApp by October 20.

Refunds for accurate returns will be processed within 72 business hours. If tax is owed, payment must be made through SARS-approved banking platforms or digital channels.

From July 7, SARS will notify affected individuals of their auto-assessed status. These taxpayers can access their assessments through eFiling, the MobiApp, or other SARS digital platforms.

For those required to file manually, SARS emphasises the importance of preparing documentation early and submitting returns on time. Late submissions or inaccurate returns may result in penalties.

To support taxpayers during the 2025 season, SARS has made several system and service enhancements, including:

• Improved digital filing channels

• Extended service hours

• Step-by-step video guidance via the SARS YouTube channel

• Strengthened data protection measures

Taxpayers are advised to make use of SARS’s digital services - such as eFiling, the MobiApp, and other online platforms - rather than visiting a branch in person. If a branch visit is necessary, it’s important to book an appointment ahead of time.

Further information and support can be accessed via the official SARS website and digital help channels.