A high increase in internet bank fraud and fraudulent emails that are purportedly from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has prompted SARS to tighten up the procedure you use if you want to change your bank account details.
You can no longer change your banking details with SARS via mail, drop box, telephone, fax or email. With immediate effect, you can change these details only via SARS eFiling, in person at a SARS branch or when you submit your tax return.
If you go to a SARS branch, you must call the SARS contact centre on 0800 007 277 after two days to confirm that your details have been captured correctly.
You cannot send another person on your behalf, and you must produce the following:
* Your original identity document/passport;
* A certified copy of your identity document/passport;
* An original bank statement confirming your name, account number, account type and branch code; and
* Original proof of your residential address – such as a utility bill not older than three months.