site stats SARS warns: Don’t wait to dispute auto-assessments! – Posopolis

SARS warns: Don’t wait to dispute auto-assessments!

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has advised taxpayers who disagree with their auto-assessments not to wait until 21 July to take action – but to file corrected returns immediately.

With auto-assessments having begun on 7 July and running until 20 July, SARS warned that any delay in responding could result in finalised assessments, automatic refunds, or debt notifications being processed – even if they are incorrect.

“If you disagree with your assessment, you must file a corrected return through eFiling or the SARS MobiApp right away,” the revenue service said.

Key points for taxpayers

  • Do nothing if you agree with the assessment – refunds are typically paid within 72 hours, sometimes even within a day
  • Act immediately if you disagree – don’t wait for manual filing season to open on 21 July
  • Refunds or debts under R100 will be rolled over to the next tax year
  • Updated tax returns must include any additional income or deductions not reflected by SARS (e.g. rental income, medical aid, or retirement annuity contributions)
  • Keep supporting documents ready in case SARS requests proof of any updates or changes

Tax season 2025: Key dates

Taxpayer type Open date Close date
Auto-assessments 7 July 2025 20 July 2025
Individual filers 21 July 2025 20 October 2025
Provisional taxpayers 21 July 2025 19 January 2026
Trusts 21 July 2025 19 January 2026

Special notes

  • Provisional taxpayers: SARS is running an invite-only pilot auto-assessment programme. Those invited may access the Provisional Taxpayer Auto Assessment Request feature if they received official notification.
  • Two-pot retirement withdrawals: Taxpayers not typically required to file may be auto-assessed if they withdrew savings from a retirement fund.

SARS emphasised that taxpayers remain responsible for ensuring the accuracy and completeness of their returns – whether filed manually or auto-assessed. Failure to act promptly may result in delays, incorrect refunds, or unintended penalties.

Have you already received a SARS tax season 2025 refund?

Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1

Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsAppFacebookX and Bluesky for the latest news.

About admin