SARS announces a major change before tax season begins

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has introduced a new online "Waiting Room" to help taxpayers access their auto assessment results during the busy filing season.

The 2026 tax filing season starts with the auto assessment period from 1 to 12 July, followed by the filing period for non-provisional taxpayers from 13 July to 23 October.

The revenue service said that the new waiting room will help reduce pressure on the eFiling platform as more taxpayers log in to check their assessment status.

"SARS has introduced a Limited Functionality Webpage, referred to as the 'Waiting Room', to support taxpayers during the Auto Assessment period," the revenue service said.

"During this time, the eFiling platform experiences increased traffic, as many Individual taxpayers log in to check their Auto Assessment status ahead of the official start of Filing Season. To ensure a smoother and more stable experience for all users, the Waiting Room will help reduce pressure on the core eFiling system."

What this means for you:

Eligible taxpayers can securely view their Auto Assessment results in read-only mode via the Waiting Room.

This ensures continued access to important information, even during peak periods of high demand.

Who can access this feature?

The Waiting Room is available exclusively to Individual eFiling users during peak Auto Assessment periods.

The revenue service emphasised that it was committed to providing reliable and efficient digital services, especially during high-demand times.

IOL also previously reported that the revenue service has stressed that it has also introduced changes to its digital filing systems aimed at improving accuracy and reducing the time it takes taxpayers to complete their returns, including:

Changes for the 2026 filing season

Here’s what’s changed:

• Less capturing, more prefilled data: Some of your information (like investment income) will already be filled in on your form — saving you time.
• Simpler, easier-to understand questions: The form has been simplified with fewer repeated questions and clearer wording to help you complete it correctly.
• Better guidance on residency status: New questions and date fields will help you provide the right information about your residency.
• Easier medical aid selection: A dropdown list of approved medical aid schemes will help you choose the correct option and avoid mistakes.
• Use WhatsApp for quick and easy access: You can now receive your Notice of Assessment (ITA34) if you are auto-assessed and don’t use email or eFiling. You can also get your Notice of Assessment (ITA34) and Statement of Account (SOA) on WhatsApp and even upload supporting documents directly through WhatsApp.
• Improved eFiling experience: The Income Tax Return (ITR12) has been updated with a new look and feel to make navigation easier. You will also find quick links to your Notice of Assessment (ITA34), and clearer messages if your return is overdue.
• Fewer verification issues: A new declaration alert questionnaire will help identify and resolve issues earlier, reducing the chances of your return being selected for verification

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