Filed Your SARS Tax Return? Here’s What to Do If You Haven’t Received Your Rebate (Yet)

Submitted your SARS tax return this week and eagerly awaiting your well-deserved rebate? Don’t worry if it hasn’t arrived just yet. There are a few reasons why there might be a delay, and some steps you can take to check the status.

Relax, It Might Still Be Early Days

First, remember that SARS processes millions of tax returns. While they aim to pay out qualifying rebates within 72 hours of issuing your assessment, it can take some time, especially if you filed recently.

Check for Common Delays

Here are some reasons your rebate might be delayed:

• Banking Details: Double-check that your banking details on SARS eFiling or the SARS MobiApp are accurate and up-to-date. Any errors could hold up your payment.
• Outstanding Returns: If you have any outstanding tax returns from previous years, SARS will prioritize settling those before issuing your current rebate.
• Verification: In some cases, SARS may need to verify your banking details or the information in your return. This can take up to 21 business days after submitting any required documents.
• Audit: If your return is selected for an audit, it could take longer to receive your rebate. SARS will communicate with you directly if this is the case.

How to Track Your Rebate

You can easily check the status of your rebate on SARS eFiling or the SARS MobiApp. Here’s how:

1. Log in to your SARS eFiling account or open the SARS MobiApp.
2. Navigate to the “Income Tax” section.
3. Look for the “Income Tax Statement of Account” (ITSA).
4. The ITSA will display your refund amount (if any) and the expected payment date.

Alternatively: Request a Statement of Account

1. Log in to your SARS eFiling account from a computer.
2. Click on “SARS Correspondence” on the sidebar.
3. Click on “Request Historic IT Notices”
4. Now choose the “I want to request a Statement of Account” and click Next.
5. Select the period, for which you would like to receive your Statement of Account and Click Request.

The refund due-date for your rebate will appear on the statement.

Still No Rebate? Contact SARS

If you’ve checked for common delays and your expected payment date has passed, you can contact SARS for further assistance. Here are your options:

• Online: Use the “Contact Us” function on SARS eFiling.
• Phone: Call the SARS Contact Centre at 0800 00 7277.
• In Person: Visit your nearest SARS branch.

Remember: Be patient and have all your tax reference details on hand when contacting SARS.

By following these tips, you should be able to track down your SARS rebate and receive your hard-earned money soon.