SARS and eFiling: What to Do if You Don’t Have a SARS eFiling Profile

Navigating tax obligations in South Africa can be complex, but the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has streamlined the process with its eFiling system. eFiling allows taxpayers to submit their returns, make payments, and interact with SARS online, making tax compliance more manageable and efficient. However, if you don’t yet have a SARS eFiling profile, it’s essential to get one set up to take full advantage of these benefits. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about creating and using a SARS eFiling profile, ensuring you stay compliant and informed.

Understanding SARS eFiling

What is SARS eFiling?

SARS eFiling is an online platform that enables individual taxpayers, businesses, and tax practitioners to submit tax returns and declarations, make payments, and perform various other tax-related tasks. The system is designed to simplify the tax submission process, reduce paperwork, and provide a secure and convenient method for managing tax obligations.

Benefits of SARS eFiling

1. Convenience: File your tax returns from the comfort of your home or office.
2. Accuracy: Minimize errors with built-in checks and validations.
3. Time-Saving: Quickly submit returns and payments online without the need to visit a SARS branch.
4. Accessibility: Access your tax records and track your submissions and payments at any time.
5. Security: Securely manage your tax affairs with robust encryption and authentication measures.

Steps to Register for a SARS eFiling Profile

Step 1: Gather Required Information

Before you start the registration process, ensure you have the following information and documents ready:

• Your South African ID or passport number
• Tax registration number
• Contact details (email address and mobile phone number)
• Banking details
• Supporting documents, such as proof of address

Step 2: Visit the SARS eFiling Website

Navigate to the official SARS eFiling website at www.sarsefiling.co.za. Make sure you are on the correct site to avoid phishing scams.

Step 3: Start the Registration Process

1. Click on “Register”: On the homepage, locate and click the “Register” button to begin the registration process.
2. Select User Type: Choose the appropriate user type from the options (individual, organization, or tax practitioner).
3. Enter Personal Details: Fill in your personal details, including your ID number, name, and contact information. Ensure all information is accurate and matches your official documents.

Step 4: Verify Your Identity

1. ID Verification: SARS will verify your identity using your ID number and other personal details. This step may involve answering security questions based on your SARS records.
2. OTP Verification: An OTP (One-Time Pin) will be sent to your mobile phone and/or email address. Enter this OTP to verify your contact details.

Step 5: Create a Username and Password

1. Username: Choose a unique username for your eFiling profile.
2. Password: Create a strong password that meets SARS security requirements. Make sure to use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters to enhance security.
3. Security Questions: Select and answer security questions that will be used to recover your account if you forget your password.

Step 6: Complete the Registration

Review all the information you have entered and make any necessary corrections. Once you are satisfied that everything is accurate, submit your registration. You will receive a confirmation email from SARS once your profile has been successfully created.

Setting Up Your SARS eFiling Profile

Logging In for the First Time

1. Access the eFiling Website: Go to the SARS eFiling website and log in using your newly created username and password.
2. Complete the Setup Wizard: The first time you log in, you will be guided through a setup wizard to complete your profile. This involves providing additional details such as your address, banking information, and any other relevant information.

Linking Your Tax Types

To fully utilize your eFiling profile, you need to link the tax types relevant to you, such as income tax, VAT, or PAYE.

1. Navigate to “Organisations”: From the main menu, select the “Organisations” tab.
2. Add Tax Types: Click on “Tax Types” and then “Manage Tax Types.” Select the tax types you need to link to your profile.
3. Verification: SARS may require additional verification for certain tax types. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete this process.

Submitting Supporting Documents

For some registrations, SARS may require you to submit supporting documents. These could include proof of address, banking details, and other verification documents. You can upload these documents directly through the eFiling platform.

Understanding Your Dashboard

The eFiling dashboard is your central hub for managing your tax affairs. Familiarize yourself with its features:

1. Returns Issued: View and access all tax returns issued to you.
2. Payments: Make tax payments and view payment history.
3. Correspondence: Access notices, letters, and other communications from SARS.
4. User Profile: Update personal information and manage security settings.

Using Your SARS eFiling Profile

Submitting Tax Returns

1. Select the Tax Type: Choose the relevant tax type from your dashboard.
2. Complete the Return: Fill out the return form with the necessary details. The system will provide guidance and checks to ensure accuracy.
3. Submit: Once you have completed the return, submit it electronically. You will receive a confirmation email upon successful submission.

Making Payments

1. Access the Payments Tab: Navigate to the “Payments” section of your dashboard.
2. Select Payment Type: Choose the type of payment you want to make (e.g., income tax, VAT).
3. Enter Payment Details: Provide the necessary payment details, including the amount and payment method.
4. Submit Payment: Confirm and submit your payment. SARS will send you a confirmation receipt.

Managing Correspondence

1. Check Notifications: Regularly check the “Correspondence” section for any new notifications or messages from SARS.
2. Respond to Queries: If SARS requires additional information or documentation, respond promptly to avoid penalties or delays.

Updating Your Profile

1. Access User Profile: Click on the “User” tab and select “User Profile.”
2. Edit Information: Update any changes to your personal or contact details, banking information, or security settings.
3. Save Changes: Ensure you save all changes to keep your profile current and accurate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues – SARS and eFiling

Forgotten Username or Password

1. Recover Username: Click on the “Forgot Username” link on the login page and follow the prompts to retrieve your username.
2. Reset Password: Click on the “Forgot Password” link and answer your security questions to reset your password.

Technical Issues

1. Browser Compatibility: Ensure you are using a compatible browser (e.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox).
2. Clear Cache: Clear your browser cache and cookies to resolve loading issues.
3. Contact Support: If you continue to experience technical difficulties, contact SARS eFiling support for assistance.

Verification Delays

If your verification process is delayed, check that you have submitted all required documents and information accurately. Contact SARS for updates if the delay persists.

Conclusion – SARS and eFiling

Creating and maintaining a SARS eFiling profile is an essential step in managing your tax obligations efficiently and effectively. The eFiling system offers numerous benefits, including convenience, accuracy, and security, making it easier to stay compliant with tax laws in South Africa.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully set up and utilize your SARS eFiling profile. Regularly updating your profile, submitting returns on time, and responding promptly to SARS correspondence will help you avoid penalties and ensure that your tax affairs are in order.

At Austral Accounting, we are here to assist you with all aspects of your tax management. Whether you need help setting up your eFiling profile, submitting returns, or navigating complex tax issues, our team of experts is ready to provide the support you need. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your financial goals.