{
  "id": 16167344,
  "title": "SARS’s expanded auto assessments pay off",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/23/sarss-expanded-auto-assessments-pay-off",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-23T08:00:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ITWeb",
    "slug": "itweb",
    "url": "https://www.itweb.co.za/article/sarss-expanded-auto-assessments-pay-off/kYbe9MXbjykvAWpG"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The South African Revenue Service (SARS) reported that it had auto-assessed over 6.9 million tax returns by September 30th, marking a 20% increase compared to the previous year. This comes as SARS prepares to close filing season for non-provisional taxpayers today, while provisional taxpayers have until January 22nd, 2027 to submit their tax returns.\n\nTo boost efficiency, SARS has increased the use of verified third-party data, expanded auto assessments to include certain provisional taxpayers, and enhanced its eFiling platform. Moreover, taxpayers can now engage with SARS through WhatsApp, adding another digital channel to the mix.\n\nCommissioner Dr Johnstone Makhubu expressed his satisfaction with the expanded auto assessments, stating that it simplifies taxpayers' interactions with the authority. He emphasized that the speed of processing legitimate refunds is crucial for effective tax administration. Makhubu highlighted that tax administration is not just about collecting what is owed but also about efficiently paying legitimate refunds to support taxpayers during challenging economic times.\n\nDuring the first quarter of 2026, SARS paid out R33 billion in refunds to 3.1 million taxpayers, with 85% of these refunds processed within 72 hours. The revenue authority has been urging taxpayers with outstanding returns to file, as late submissions of personal income tax returns can result in monthly administrative penalties ranging from R250 to R16,000, depending on taxable income, until the return is submitted. Furthermore, unpaid tax debt will incur additional penalties and interest.\n\nMakhubu concluded by thanking the millions of taxpayers who have fulfilled their obligations and urged those still needing to file to do so promptly. He emphasized that SARS's digital platforms enable taxpayers to meet their obligations without visiting a SARS branch.",
  "summary": "Over 6.9 million returns were auto assessed by 30 September, a 20% increase compared to the previous year, says SARS.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}