SARS Announces Upcoming eFiling Platform Upgrade: What South African Taxpayers Need to Know

South African taxpayers! we’ve got some important news about an upgrade to the eFiling and digital platforms by the South African Revenue Service (SARS). Let’s dive into what you need to know.

What’s Happening and When:

Mark your calendars for an upgrade scheduled from 8 PM to midnight on Saturday, 12 October 2024.

During this time, you might notice some intermittent hiccups with eFiling, Tax, and Customs digital platforms. But here’s a relief—the arrival and exit management functions will still be up and running at land border posts for all released declarations and manifests.

So, if you’ve got any Goods Declarations and Road Manifests, aim to submit them by 7 PM, especially if they’re considered a priority.

Why This Matters:

This isn’t just any update—it’s part of SARS’s vision for 2024. They’re modernizing their systems to streamline digital services, build public trust, and ensure secure digital dealings.

The ultimate goal? To make fulfilling your tax obligations a whole lot easier and to align with SARS’s key objectives. It’s about creating a smoother experience for you and making sure everything runs like clockwork.

As an added bonus, SARS is launching a new way to get in touch with them through WhatsApp.

Whether you’re at your desk or on the go with your mobile, you can use this channel for personal income tax-related questions. It’s another step they’re taking to ensure you have all the support you need right at your fingertips.

Important Dates to Remember:

Keep in mind, if you’re an individual taxpayer, you’ve got until 21 October 2024 to submit your tax returns. If you’re a provisional taxpayer, your deadline is 20 January 2025. These dates are important, so set a reminder!

This revamp not only modernizes the system but also highlights SARS’s commitment to using technology to boost efficiency and engage more effectively with taxpayers. It’s all about improved service and keeping things running smoothly for you.

Thanks for reading! Remember, staying informed helps you manage your taxes with confidence. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out!