The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has hailed a significant milestone in its digital transformation drive, confirming that 5.8 million taxpayers were issued auto assessments this year – an increase from 5 million in 2024.
According to SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, 99.6% of these assessments remained unchanged by taxpayers, underscoring the growing accuracy and public trust in the automated system.
So far, R10.6 billion in refunds have been paid to qualifying taxpayers – within 72 hours of assessment.
That’s an average refund of R1 828.
“Auto assessment has truly been a game changer,” Kieswetter said.
“We are delivering faster, more efficient services that remove the need for in-person visits, making it easier for taxpayers to comply.”
What is an auto assessment?
SARS auto assessment is a system where SARS pre-fills tax returns using third-party data, such as salary, medical aid, and retirement contributions.
For most taxpayers, no action is required, unless they need to add missing information via eFiling or the SARS MobiApp.
The auto assessment period ran from 7 to 20 July 2025, ahead of the manual filing season opening on 21 July.
Digital engagement surges
SARS also reported a dramatic increase in the use of digital platforms:
- 10.2 million unique logins to SARS platforms since 4 July
- 2.1 million digital queries processed
- 1.1 million handled via the SARS Online Query System (SOQS)
- 707 000 via WhatsApp
- 290 000 through the Lwazi Chat Bot
“Ultimately, our aim is to make the best service to be no service at all,” Kieswetter said, reiterating SARS’s vision to make tax compliance seamless and digital-first.
Filing dates and deadlines
- Auto-assessments: 7–20 July 2025
- Individual Taxpayers: 21 July – 20 October 2025
- Provisional Taxpayers and Trusts: 21 July 2025 – 19 January 2026
Most online submissions now receive an assessment outcome in under 5 seconds, supported by AI-driven risk detection tools that help block fraudulent or impermissible refunds.
SARS urges vigilance against scams
With the growing use of online services, SARS is also warning taxpayers to remain alert for scams.
They stressed that SARS will never send clickable links via email or SMS.
Phishing attempts should be reported to phishing@sars.gov.za.
SARS reminded those who owe tax to make payment arrangements promptly to avoid penalties and interest.
Only refunds over R100 will be automatically paid into taxpayer accounts.
As the 2025 filing season officially begins, SARS is encouraging all taxpayers to use digital channels rather than visiting physical service centres.
“There is no need to queue. Use our digital tools to get assessed and stay compliant,” Kieswetter concluded.
Key SARS digital contact channels
- Website: www.sars.gov.za → “Individuals” tab
- SOQS: tools.sars.gov.za/soqs
- WhatsApp: Send “Hi” to 0800 117 277
- AI Virtual Assistant: 24/7 on SARS website
- USSD: Dial *134*7277#
- YouTube: @sarstax for tutorials
Were you one of the 5.8 million South Africans to have been auto assessed?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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