The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has officially announced the start of the 2025 tax season. This year brings key updates, expanded auto-assessments, and important deadlines that every taxpayer should be aware of.
Key 2025 Tax Season Dates
| Category | Opening Date | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Auto-Assessments | 7 July 2025 | 20 July 2025 |
| Individuals & Non-Provisional Taxpayers | 21 July 2025 | 20 October 2025 |
| Provisional Taxpayers & Trusts | 21 July 2025 | 19 January 2026 |
Expanded Auto-Assessment System
In a first for SARS, the auto-assessment process now includes certain provisional taxpayers. This means more taxpayers will receive pre-filled returns generated from third-party data provided by employers, banks, medical aid providers, and retirement funds.
How It Works:
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Taxpayers will receive an SMS or email between 7 and 20 July if they are auto-assessed.
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If the return is correct, no action is needed – it will be automatically submitted.
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If any changes are needed, taxpayers must edit and file manually before 20 October.
What You Need to Do
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Check your notifications from SARS in early July.
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Review your auto-assessed return for accuracy.
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Accept or edit your return before the deadline.
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Ensure banking details are up to date to receive refunds.
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Pay outstanding tax balances through SARS eFiling or your banking app.
Refunds are typically processed within 72 hours of filing. However, delays may occur if information is missing or incorrect.
New Features in the 2025 Tax Season
SARS has introduced several changes to improve the tax filing experience:
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Inclusion of two-pot retirement fund withdrawals in assessments.
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Updated rules for foreign income and capital gains tax credits.
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New sections in the ITR12 tax return, including foreign interest and trust declarations.
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Improved mobile app and eFiling platform for faster, more user-friendly submissions.
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Better communication through SMS and email notifications.
Beware of Scams
SARS has reminded all taxpayers to be cautious of fake emails, SMS messages, and phone calls claiming to be from the tax office. Always verify official communication and never share your personal or banking details unless you are logged in to a secure SARS platform.
SARS Tips for a Smooth Filing Process
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Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
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Have all documents ready, including IRP5s, medical aid certificates, and investment statements.
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Update your personal details on SARS platforms to ensure you receive important updates.
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Use the official eFiling portal or SARS MobiApp for all submissions.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 tax season runs from 7 July to 20 October for most taxpayers, with provisional taxpayers and trusts having until 19 January 2026. With expanded auto-assessments and improved digital tools, SARS is making tax compliance easier and more efficient. However, it remains your responsibility to review your return, update your information, and meet all deadlines.