SARS said the filing periods have been structured to support its auto-assessment system, which uses third-party information from employers, banks, medical schemes and other institutions to pre-populate taxpayer data and reduce the need for manual submissions.
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The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has confirmed the filing dates for the 2026 tax season, with auto assessments set to begin on 1 July and standard tax return submissions opening on 13 July.
SARS said the filing periods have been structured to support its auto-assessment system, which uses third-party information from employers, banks, medical schemes and other institutions to pre-populate taxpayer data and reduce the need for manual submissions.
Auto assessments will run from 1 July to 12 July 2026. Non-provisional taxpayers will have from 13 July to 23 October 2026 to submit their returns.
Provisional taxpayers and trusts will have an extended filing period from 13 July 2026 until 22 January 2027.
Taxpayers who receive an auto assessment are encouraged to review the information carefully, verify that their banking and contact details are correct, and ensure all details are accurate.
SARS said taxpayers who agree with their auto assessment do not need to take any further action.
“This year, we will again issue auto-assessments to taxpayers whose tax affairs are less complicated. If you are in agreement with your auto-assessment, then there is no need to ‘accept’ the assessment. If a refund is due to you, it will automatically be paid into your bank account,” SARS said.
The revenue service has urged non-provisional taxpayers to file early, prepare supporting documentation in advance and avoid waiting until the deadline to submit their returns.
Provisional taxpayers and trusts have also been encouraged to start preparing early and diarise their filing deadlines to avoid rushed or incomplete submissions.
SARS said several enhancements will be introduced during the 2026 filing season to make the process easier and reduce errors. These include additional pre-filled taxpayer information, simplified return questions and improved guidance relating to residency details.
A new drop-down menu for medical aid selection will also be introduced to help minimise mistakes when completing returns.
Taxpayers will be able to access key documents through WhatsApp, while the updated SARS eFiling platform will feature a redesigned interface, faster navigation and clearer notifications.
SARS said a new verification feature has also been added to identify potential issues earlier in the filing process.
The revenue service has urged taxpayers to ensure that their personal and banking details are up to date before the start of the filing season.
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