SARS tax filing season 2025 is officially live. This year, things are smoother with auto‑assessments, new source codes, and clear deadlines.
Let’s break it down so you can file without a headache.
SARS tax filing season dates
SARS introduced a few key updates that could affect how (and when) you file.
Here’s a quick look at what’s new in the 2025 tax season.
- Auto‑assessment window for simple returns: Between 7 and 20 July 2025
- Non‑provisional (single-income taxpayers): 21 July and 20 Oct 2025
- Provisional taxpayers: File between 21 July 2025 and 19 Jan 2026
- Trusts: File between 19 Sept 2025 and 19 Jan 2026
SARS tax filing season 2025: What’s new?
It’s a lot easier now to stay on top of your taxes, with these changes in place.
Let’s break down the main updates so you don’t miss a refund or trigger an audit.
- Provisional taxpayers can now opt into auto‑assessment.
- Carried‑forward foreign tax credits may now auto‑roll for up to six years.
- New IRP5 codes for back‑dated salaries and pensions (codes 3623, 3673),
- and dividends codes 4306/4307.
- Tax residency choices now reflected clearly on ITR12 / IRP6.
- The SARS system now shows verified banking options; no manual errors.
What’s auto‑assessment?
Rather than you doing the work, SARS uses your IRP5s, bank and medical statements to prep your return, and emails or texts it to you.
If it’s accurate, do nothing and wait up to 72 hours for a refund.
If it’s wrong or missing info (for example, you have rental income or home office deductions), you must file a manual return by 20 October.
You can also choose to opt out of the auto-assessment.
If you’ve been auto-assessed or have been issued an assessment (ITA34), SARS will inform you via SMS or email.
According to Tax Tim, these notifications will go out between 7 July to 20 July 2025.
Auto-assessment: What you need to do
First, update your bank, email and phone info on the SARS eFiling website or the MobiApp before 7 July. Keep an eye out for the auto-assessment SMS or email in July.
Once received, review your auto-assessment carefully. Everything needs to line up: income, deductions, residency, etc.
If it is correct, accept it and wait for your refund.
If you disagree with the auto-assessment, you have until 20 October (or 19 January for provisional taxpayers) to file manually.
Warning signs to watch out for
- Missing certificates from your employer, bank or medical aid.
- Forgotten deductions like donations, travel or pensions.
- Mismatched tax residency status.
These can land you with penalties, so don’t gloss over what SARS has pre-filled. Check for accuracy!
TL;DR: SARS tax filing season
The SARS tax filing season 2025 is shaping up to be smoother, but only if you prep properly.
Check your details, know your deadlines, and don’t blindly accept whatever lands in your inbox.
Handle this now and enjoy a hassle-free October.
