SARS Announces 2025 Tax Season Dates: What to Expect from Auto Assessments

Auto assessments begin 7 July — Here’s what South African taxpayers need to know about filing deadlines, refunds, and how to stay compliant in 2025.

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has officially announced the dates for the 2025 tax season, and there’s plenty for taxpayers to take note of, especially when it comes to auto assessments, refunds, and compliance expectations.

Whether you’re a non-provisional taxpayer or part of the auto-assessed group, preparation is key. With SARS gunning to collect an additional R20 billion in tax this year, even the smallest oversight could land you in hot water.

2025 Tax Season Deadlines: Key Dates to Remember

What is Auto Assessment?

Auto assessment is SARS’ streamlined process for taxpayers whose financial affairs are straightforward. If you receive income from formal employment or other verified sources, and SARS has third-party data on your earnings, expenses, and deductions (like from your employer, pension fund, or medical aid), your return may be automatically assessed — no manual filing needed unless corrections are required.

Here’s How the 2025 Auto Assessment Will Work:

1. Starting 7 July, SARS will begin contacting selected taxpayers via SMS and/or email.
2. You’ll be notified of your pre-populated auto-assessed return, viewable via SARS eFiling or the SARS MobiApp.
3. If you agree with the auto-assessment, no further action is needed.
4. If anything’s missing or incorrect, you must submit a corrected tax return by 20 October 2025.
5. Refunds for accepted assessments will be paid within 72 business hours, assuming your banking details are correct.
6. If you owe SARS, you’ll need to pay by the due date via eFiling, the MobiApp, or directly through your bank.

Do You Have to File in 2025?

Not everyone needs to file. If you earn less than R500,000 annually and meet certain criteria, you’re exempt — but always verify this on the SARS website or with a tax practitioner.

Important:
If you’re not part of the auto-assessment and are required to file, you must do so manually via eFiling, the MobiApp, or a SARS branch (by appointment).

What You Should Do Right Now

To avoid last-minute stress, SARS urges all taxpayers to prepare early:

• Check and update your personal info on SARS eFiling (email, cellphone number, security contact info).
• Verify or update your banking details — crucial for timely refunds.
• Keep all supporting documentation (IRP5s, medical certificates, investment income, etc.) handy.

Refunds, Payments & Penalties

• Refunds: Paid in 72 hours post-notification, assuming no discrepancies.
• Payments: If you owe SARS, make payment immediately using eFiling, the MobiApp, or direct EFT.
• Penalties: With SARS chasing R20 billion in additional revenue this year, expect a strict approach to errors or late submissions.

SARS Is Watching Closely in 2025

With a bigger and more refined auto-assessment system, SARS will be casting a wider net across both non-provisional and provisional taxpayers this year. If your return is inaccurate or late, don’t expect leniency.

“SARS is expected to be especially strict this year… leaving no stone unturned and no error, no matter how small, unpunished.”

Quick Tips for a Smooth Tax Season

• Don’t ignore SARS notifications — they may include your auto-assessed return.
• Act promptly if corrections are needed.
• Engage a tax practitioner if unsure about your tax situation.
• Always keep proof of income and deductions, even if you’re auto-assessed.

Final Thoughts

Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful, especially if you take early action. Whether you’re filing manually or reviewing an auto assessment, staying ahead of the game will save you time, money, and headaches.

Stay compliant. Stay alert. And remember — auto doesn’t always mean hands-off.

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