SARS Tax Season 2025: Key Filing Dates & Auto-Assessment Guide for South Africans
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has officially announced the opening and closing dates for the 2025 individual income tax season. Here’s what every taxpayer needs to know:
| Filing Type | Opening Date | Closing Date |
|---|---|---|
| Auto‑assessments | 7 July 2025 | 20 July 2025 |
| Manual filing (non‑provisional) | 21 July 2025 | 20 October 2025 |
| Provisional taxpayers | 21 July 2025 | 19 January 2026 |
Auto‑assessments (7–20 July): SARS will select taxpayers whose returns can be processed automatically using data from employers, banks, medical aids, etc. If you’re included, you’ll receive an SMS or email notification within this period.
Manual filing (21 July–20 October): If you’re not auto‑assessed—or wish to correct your auto‑assessment—you must submit your return via SARS eFiling or the MobiApp by 20 October 2025.
Provisional taxpayers (21 July–19 January): Self‑employed individuals, freelancers, and subcontractors have an extended deadline of 19 January 2026.
How SARS Auto‑Assessment Works
Pre‑filled data: SARS uses third-party data (e.g. IRP5s, medical aid, investment info) to fill your return automatically.
Notification to you: If SARS auto‑assesses, they’ll notify you between 7–20 July 2025.
Quick refunds: If a refund is due and your banking details are correct, SARS processes it within 72 hours.
Owing SARS?: Pay via eFiling, MobiApp, or your bank before the due date on ITA34.
Want changes?: If information is incorrect or incomplete, amend it via eFiling/MobiApp by 20 October 2025.
Who Needs to File (and Who Doesn’t)?
You don’t need to file if all of the following apply:
- You’re only a PAYE employee earning ≤ R500 000 from one employer.
- You receive interest (non-tax‑free) ≤ R23 800 (or ≤ R34 500 if over 65).
- You only earn dividends or tax‑free investment income from abroad.
You must file if:
- You’re not auto‑assessed.
- You’re provisional, self-employed, earning rental income, or have multiple income sources.
- You’re filing for a trust.
Filing Tips & Best Practices
Prepare early: Gather IRP5s, medical aid certificates, retirement annuities, and banking details well before July.
Update your SARS profile: Confirm your banking and contact info in eFiling/MobiApp to receive refunds and notifications promptly.
Avoid phishing scams: SARS warns users to be cautious of impersonation emails or SMS — they won’t ask for personal info via these channels .
Use SARS digital tools: eFiling and the MobiApp or a reliable tax professional to help you easy the tax season.
Book branch appointments if needed: SARS recommends digital first, but you can schedule visits in advance.
Conclusion
Understanding the SARS tax season deadlines is crucial for avoiding penalties and ensuring a smooth filing experience. Whether you’re a salaried employee, self-employed, or running a business, being aware of your responsibilities and staying compliant is key. The 2025 tax season offers both convenience through auto-assessments and flexibility with digital platforms like eFiling and the SARS MobiApp.
