SARS eFiling Guide 2026: Login, Tax Returns, Refunds & FAQs

Millions of South Africans struggle with SARS eFiling every year, from forgotten passwords and delayed refunds to confusing verification requests and fears of penalties. Whether you are filing for the first time, waiting for an IRP5, chasing a SARS refund, or trying to understand auto-assessments, this complete 2026 SARS eFiling guide explains everything in simple, practical steps.

This evergreen guide is designed to answer the most searched SARS questions in South Africa using official SARS information, real user problems, and beginner-friendly explanations.

1. What Is SARS eFiling?

SARS eFiling is the free official online portal (and MobiApp) for registering as a taxpayer, submitting returns (like ITR12), making payments, viewing assessments, requesting refunds, and managing your tax affairs securely. It replaced most paper processes.

2. How to Register for SARS eFiling

You need: South African ID (or passport for non-citizens), proof of address, banking details.Steps (2026):

• Go to secure.sarsefiling.co.za or download the SARS MobiApp.

• Click Register.

• Choose Individual.

• Enter personal details (ID, tax number if you have one — SARS often issues one automatically).

• Create username/password (min 8 characters, uppercase/lowercase/number/special).

• Verify via OTP (email/SMS).

• Upload supporting docs if prompted (ID, proof of address, bank statement).

3. How to Login to SARS eFiling

Visit the landing page → Login → Enter username/password → Complete security (OTP/biometrics).

4. How to Reset Your SARS Password

• On login page: Forgot Password or Forgot Username.

• Enter ID/tax number and registered contact details.

• Receive OTP/link → Set new strong password.

5. How to Retrieve Your Tax Number

• Log into eFiling or use SARS WhatsApp (0800 11 7277) → "Tax Reference Number".

• Or call 0800 00 7277 with ID ready.

6-7. How to Submit a Tax Return / First Tax Return

Filing season 2026 notes: Non-provisional deadline ~23 Oct 2026; provisional/trusts ~22 Jan 2027. Auto-assessments July.

Steps:

• Login → Request ITR12.

• Pre-populated data from IRP5s etc. appears.

• Add/edit income, deductions, medical credits.

• Declare & submit.

• Keep proof (upload where required).

8. What Is an IRP5 and How to Get It

An IRP5 is your official income certificate issued by your employer.

It shows:

• salary earned,

• PAYE deducted,

• UIF contributions,

• and tax information.

  
  

How to Download IRP5

• Login to eFiling

• Go to “Returns”

• Download your IRP5

  
  

You can also request it from your employer.

9. SARS Auto Assessment Explained

SARS now uses third-party data to automatically assess many taxpayers.

How Auto Assessment Works

SARS collects information from:

• employers,

• banks,

• medical aids,

• retirement funds.

Then SARS generates a tax assessment automatically.

10. How Long SARS Refunds Take

• Clean cases/auto: ~72 hours.

• With verification: 21+ business days.

• Check status: eFiling, WhatsApp, or SOQS.

11.Should You Accept Auto Assessment?

Accept It If:

• all income is correct,

• deductions are correct,

• banking details are correct.

  
  

Edit It If:

• information is missing,

• deductions are incorrect,

• income is incomplete.

12.Why SARS Refunds Get Delayed

Common Reasons

• Verification selected

• Incorrect banking details

• Outstanding tax returns

• Employer IRP5 mismatch

• Audit triggered

• New bank account verification

13. How to Check SARS Refund Status

You can check using:

• SARS eFiling

• SARS MobiApp

• SARS WhatsApp

14. How to Upload Supporting Documents

Accepted Formats

• PDF

• JPG

• PNG

Upload Steps

• Login to eFiling

• Open correspondence

• Upload requested documents

• Submit

Always keep original copies.

14. How to Update Banking Details on SARS eFiling

Steps

• Login

• Go to: sars-efiling

“Update Bank Details”

• Enter new information

• Complete verification

Important

Bank verification may delay refunds.

15. Common SARS eFiling Errors and Fixes

17. How to Avoid SARS Penalties

Important Tips

• File before deadlines

• Declare all income

• Keep supporting documents

• Avoid fake deductions

• Respond to SARS requests quickly

18. SARS Penalties Explained

Administrative penalties can range from:

R250 to R16,000 per month

Depending on:

• taxable income,

• and number of outstanding returns.

19. What Happens If You Don’t File Your Tax Return?

Possible consequences:

• penalties,

• interest,

• audits,

• legal action,

• estimated assessments,

• refund delays.

20. SARS Provisional Tax Explained

Provisional tax applies mainly to:

• freelancers,

• self-employed people,

• side-income earners,

• investors,

• landlords.

Payments are submitted using:

IRP6

Usually:

• twice yearly,

• sometimes a third top-up payment.

21. SARS Filing Season 2026 Deadlines

22. How to Contact SARS

SARS Contact Numbers

• Call Centre:0800 00 7277

• WhatsApp:0800 11 7277

23. SARS MobiApp Guide

The SARS MobiApp allows users to:

• check refunds,

• submit returns,

• receive notifications,

• scan documents,

• use biometric login.

24.SARS Scams and Fraud Warnings

Common SARS Scams

• Fake refund SMS

• Phishing emails

• Fake eFiling websites

• OTP scams

Important

SARS never asks for:

• passwords,

• OTPs,

• or banking PINs.

Always verify communication through official SARS channels.

Frequently Asked SARS eFiling Questions

1. How do I check my SARS refund status?

Login to eFiling or use SARS WhatsApp.

2. How long does SARS verification take?

Usually up to 21 business days.

3. Can SARS audit me after paying a refund?

Yes.

4. What happens if I miss the filing deadline?

Penalties and interest may apply.

5. Do I need to file if I earn below threshold?

Not always. Check SARS filing requirements.

6. How do I unlock my SARS account?

Reset credentials or contact SARS support.

7. Why is my SARS refund delayed?

Usually verification, banking issues, or audits.

8. Can I use SARS eFiling without a tax practitioner?

Yes.