Don't let Sars catch you off guard

PICTURE this: it’s October 19, you're scrambling through boxes of receipts, and your tax return deadline is tomorrow.

- SANJITH HANNUMAN

Sounds familiar? Well, breathe easy. The 2025 tax season has arrived, and we're here to guide you through it step by step, so you can avoid the last-minute panic and maybe even score a nice refund.

What you need to know about tax season 2025:

Tax season officially starts on July 7 and will run until October 20, for most individual taxpayers. But here's the good news - the SA Revenue Service (Sars) has made things easier with its expanded auto-assessment system, which means many of you might not need to lift a finger.

Key dates:

Auto-assessments:

July 7-20.

◆ If you're lucky enough to be selected, Sars will do the heavy lifting for you.

◆ You will get an SMS or email notification if you qualify.

Individual taxpayers (non-provisional):

July 21 to October 20.

◆ This applies to most working South Africans with straightforward tax affairs.

Provisional taxpayers and trusts:

July 21 to January 19, 2026.

◆ Business owners and those with complex tax situations get extra time.

The magic of auto-assessments: your tax return on autopilot

Here’s where things get exciting. Sars has expanded its auto-assessment programme, which is like having a personal tax assistant. If your tax situation is straightforward - think single employer, standard deductions, no complicated investments - you might be selected for an auto-assessment.

How it works

◆ Sars uses information from your employer, medical aid and other sources.

◆ It calculates your tax return automatically.

◆ If you agree with it, you do absolutely nothing.

◆ If there’s a refund due, it hits your bank account within 72 hours.

What to do if you’re auto-assessed

◆ Check your SMS and email for notifications.