Key Dates and What You Should Know About the SARS 2025 Tax Filing Season
Tax season in South Africa is an important time for individuals and businesses alike. Whether you are employed full-time, self-employed, or running a company, it is essential to understand the deadlines and your responsibilities to remain compliant and avoid penalties. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced the official tax filing dates for the 2025 season, and this article will guide you through everything you need to know.
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
When Is SARS Tax Season?
The 2025 individual tax season opens on 7 July 2025 and ends on 20 October 2025 for most taxpayers who are not classified as provisional taxpayers.
However, there are different deadlines depending on whether you are:
- Automatically assessed
- Filing manually
- A provisional taxpayer or a trust
Understanding which category you fall under is the first step.
1. Key Filing Dates released by SARS
Auto-Assessment: 7 July – 20 July 2025
SARS will automatically assess many individual taxpayers using third-party information they have already received. This includes data from your employer (IRP5), your bank (interest earned), your medical aid, and your retirement annuity provider.
If you are one of the taxpayers selected for auto-assessment, you will receive an SMS or email from SARS during this window.
Manual Filing (Non-Provisional Taxpayers): 21 July – 20 October 2025
If you are not selected for auto-assessment, you will need to submit your tax return manually using either eFiling or the SARS MobiApp. This is the window for standard returns.
Provisional Taxpayers and Trusts: 21 July 2025 – 19 January 2026
If you are a provisional taxpayer (usually someone who earns income from multiple sources or runs their own business), you have a bit more time. Your return must be filed by 19 January 2026.
2. What Should You Do Now?
a) Check Your Contact and Banking Information
Before 7 July, make sure your contact details and bank account information are up to date on SARS eFiling or the MobiApp. This helps SARS send notifications and process any potential refunds correctly and quickly.
b) Understand the Auto-Assessment Process
If you receive an auto-assessment:
- No action is required if all the information is correct
- You will receive your refund (if due) within 72 business hours
- If you owe tax, payment should be made promptly through the approved SARS channels
- If something looks wrong, you must file a correction on eFiling before the 20 October deadline
Even if your return is auto-assessed, it is your responsibility to verify its accuracy. Do not assume everything is correct. Mistakes can still happen.
c) Prepare to File Manually
If you are not auto-assessed, you need to start gathering your documents early. These include:
- IRP5/IT3(a) from your employer
- Medical aid tax certificates
- Retirement annuity certificates
- Proof of rental income or business income (if applicable)
- Any other supporting documents related to income or deductions
Filing manually means logging into SARS eFiling or using the MobiApp to submit your return between 21 July and 20 October.
d) Skip the Branch Visit if Possible
SARS encourages taxpayers to use online platforms as much as possible. Branch visits should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. If you do need to visit a branch, you must book an appointment beforehand.
3. SARS has made some improvements for the 2025 season, here’s whats new and better in this year:
- Auto-assessments have been expanded, now covering over 4.8 million taxpayers
- Extended support hours on the helpdesk to assist with filing
- Better digital tools like the Virtual Assistant, WhatsApp help, and YouTube step-by-step videos
- Enhanced fraud detection and data checks to ensure tax returns are more accurate and secure
These improvements aim to make tax season less stressful and more efficient.
4. Important Summary Table
Here is a quick overview of the key dates and tasks:
| Task | Date | What To Do |
| Check your details | Now – 7 July | Make sure your contact and bank info are correct |
| Auto-assessment notifications | 7 – 20 July | Check SMS or email and verify your return |
| Manual filing (non-provisional) | 21 July – 20 October | File your return if not auto-assessed |
| Provisional and trust returns | Until 19 January 2026 | Submit required documents and return |
5. Tips for a Smooth Tax Season
Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Begin collecting your supporting documents now so you are ready by 21 July.
Double-check everything: Even if SARS auto-assesses your return, review it carefully. You are still responsible for its accuracy.
Avoid penalties: Late submissions can lead to unnecessary fines. Make sure you submit before the deadline.
Go digital: Use the online platforms provided by SARS. They are safer, faster, and often more convenient than visiting a branch.
Our final Thoughts
Filing your tax return may feel overwhelming, but understanding your responsibilities and planning ahead can make the process smoother. Whether you are an individual taxpayer, a small business owner, or a provisional taxpayer, knowing what to expect this filing season is key.
Remember, SARS is placing more emphasis on automation and digital tools. This means convenience, but also a greater need for accuracy on your part. Take time to verify the details SARS uses to assess your tax. If there is any discrepancy, act quickly to correct it.
And most importantly, do not wait until the last minute. Whether you are filing for yourself or your business, preparation is your best tool.
Need Help With Your Tax Submission?
We help individuals and businesses prepare, review, and file their tax returns with confidence. If you are unsure about your assessment, don’t know how to correct errors, or simply want peace of mind knowing your return is compliant and accurate, reach out to us.
Let us handle the admin while you focus on what matters most to you.
Contact us today to make your 2025 tax season stress-free. And don’t forget to follow us on instagram for more content like this!
