Ensure Your Bank and Contact Information Is Accurate to Avoid Refund Delays and Penalties During the SARS 2025 Auto-Assessment Process
As the 2025 tax season fast approaches, SARS has issued a critical reminder to all taxpayers: check and update your contact and banking details before 6 July 2025 to ensure a seamless auto-assessment and refund process.
SARS plans to process a large volume of auto-assessments starting 7 July 2025, and accurate information is key to avoiding unnecessary delays or complications.
Why It Matters: The 2025 Auto-Assessment Process
SARS continues to streamline the annual filing process by automating assessments for millions of South Africans. If you’re among those selected for auto-assessment this year, here’s what you need to know:
- Auto-assessments begin on 7 July 2025.
- You do not need to manually accept your auto-assessment. If everything checks out, SARS will process it.
- Refunds will only be paid if your banking details are correct and verified.
- If there’s a problem with your banking details, your refund will be delayed, and you’ll need to engage SARS directly — adding unnecessary stress and time to the process.
How to Check or Update Your SARS Banking and Contact Details
To ensure smooth sailing this tax season, follow these steps on the SARS eFiling system:
- Log in to sarsefiling.co.za
- Go to “SARS Registered Details”
- Click on “Maintain SARS Registered Details”
- Select and update the relevant sections:
- My Bank Accounts
- My Email Addresses
- My Mobile Numbers
- My eFiling Security Details
- Click “Done” and then “Submit” — otherwise your changes won’t be registered.
⚠️ Important: SARS will no longer send physical letters. All correspondence will be digital, so having an accurate email and mobile number is essential to avoid missing deadlines, penalty notices, or audit requests.
What If You Receive an Auto-Assessment Notice?
Once you receive an SMS or email from SARS, log into eFiling or the SARS MobiApp to view your assessment. Here’s what to do next:
- If you agree with the auto-assessment:
- Check if a refund is due.
- If yes, SARS will pay it into your bank account within 72 hours, assuming your banking details are correct.
- No further action is required.
- If you owe SARS:
- Make payment via eFiling or MobiApp before the payment due date (as shown on the ITA34).
- If you disagree with the assessment:
- Access your full return.
- Complete and file it before the due date.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Failure to keep your contact and banking info up to date can result in:
- Refund delays
- Penalties for missed deadlines
- Being flagged as non-compliant
- Communication blackouts from SARS
SARS urges taxpayers not to visit branches or call for issues that can be easily resolved via the eFiling platform or MobiApp.
Final Checklist Before 7 July 2025
✅ Check your bank details
✅ Confirm your email address
✅ Update your mobile number
✅ Log in to eFiling or MobiApp regularly
✅ Wait for SARS notification before taking action
By doing these simple checks, you’re not just complying — you’re saving yourself time, money, and frustration.
Also read: South Africa’s Inflation Remains Unchanged at 2.8% in May: What Economists Expect Next