Last Updated on September 21, 2023 by ufiling
To claim a refund from the South African Revenue Service (SARS), you can follow these general steps:
- Gather supporting documents: Collect all relevant documentation related to your tax return, such as your income tax certificate, IRP5/IT3(a) certificate, and any other supporting documents like medical expenses, retirement annuity contributions, or travel expenses.
- Review your tax return: Ensure that your tax return has been accurately completed, including all income and deductions. Double-check the calculations and make any necessary corrections.
- Submit your tax return: If you haven’t submitted your tax return yet, complete it using the appropriate tax form or submit it online via eFiling, SARS’ electronic filing system.
- Wait for the assessment: After submitting your tax return, SARS will process it and send you an assessment. This assessment will indicate whether you owe additional taxes or if you are due a refund.
- Confirm the assessment: Review the assessment carefully to ensure that all the details are correct. If you agree with the assessment, no further action is required. However, if you believe there is an error or if you are expecting a refund that is not reflected, proceed to the next step.
- Lodge a dispute or request a correction: If you disagree with the assessment or if you believe there is an error, you can lodge a dispute or request a correction through eFiling. Provide a detailed explanation of the issue and attach any supporting documents.
- Follow up with SARS: Contact SARS to inquire about the status of your refund. You can reach them through their helpline or visit a SARS branch in person. Be prepared to provide your tax reference number and any other relevant information they may require.
- Verification and processing: SARS may conduct a verification process to validate the information provided. If everything checks out, they will process your refund.
- Refund payment: Once SARS approves your refund, they will initiate the payment. Refunds are typically paid via electronic funds transfer (EFT) directly into your bank account. Ensure that your banking details are correctly registered with SARS to avoid any delays.
Note: The process and specific requirements for claiming a refund from SARS may vary depending on your circumstances and the nature of the refund. It’s always advisable to consult official SARS resources or seek professional tax advice to ensure you follow the correct procedure.