Save a trip and skip the queue

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has urged taxpayers to save a trip to one of its branches and skip having to stand in queues.

SARS’s online services could save you valuable queue time at a branch.

Here’s how:

• SARS Online Query System to access a variety of services
• SMS: SMS SARS for free at 47277 to book an appointment; check if you need to submit a Personal Income Tax return; request a balance statement or Statement of Account; and request your tax number
• USSD channel: dial*134*7277# free of charge on your cellphone to check if you have a tax number; get your account balance; or check if you need to submit a tax return
• WhatsApp: save the SARS WhatsApp number, 0800 11 7277, in your contact list. Text anything to the number e.g. “Hi” or “Hello” and SARS will respond with a service–request menu. Remember this service works only with your SARS-registered cellphone number. Through WhatsApp, you can ask for your:
  • Tax Reference Number
  • Statement of Account
  • Return Refund Status
  • Audit Status
  • Notice of Assessment

Did you know that SARS has 49 branches throughout South Africa?

The vast majority are to be found in Gauteng (15), with seven options available to those residing in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.

SARS BRANCHES THROUGHUT SOUTH AFRICA

Gauteng – 15

KwaZulu-Natal – 7

Western Cape – 7

Eastern Cape – 4

Free State – 4

Limpopo – 4

Mpumalanga – 3

North West – 3

Northern Cape – 2

Figures correct as per the SARS official website as time of publishing