If you aren't able to submit your income tax return by Wednesday this week, you still have time to fill it in online as the deadline for returns submitted by eFiling is January 31, 2008.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) says there are many reasons, in addition to the deadline extension, why eFiling at
- This service is available 24 hours a day. Remember, however, not to leave completing an online return until the last minute because you may need to call a SARS helpline that does only operate in office hours, and because closer to the deadline, many people are likely to use the site and this could make it slow.
- The assessment of electronic submissions is automated, less labour intensive and there is no room for capturing errors. SARS will give you the benefit of the time it saves in assessing your return.
- The eFiling website is secure. SARS says it is using world-class online security software to protect your personal information.
- You don't need to submit supporting documents with your return. SARS can verify all your income and expense data with the information it can access from other parties, such as your employer, your financial services providers, or your medical scheme. So don't try and cheat and remember to keep all your supporting documents for five years after you submit your return in case SARS decides to audit you.
- Quick and easy registration for eFiling.
- You can choose your preferred communication channel. SARS will communicate with you using this channel in future.
- SARS will keep a history of your returns and assessments on its website and you can also view a history of your interaction with SARS on the site.
There are two call centres that can assist you: the SARS national call centre on 0860 12 12 18, or the SARS eFling helpline on 0860 709 709.