Is SARS eFiling free?

Yes. Registration and use of eFiling is free of charge.

What documents do I need to register for SARS eFiling?

You need your South African ID number, your SARS tax number (if you already have one), a working cellphone number and email address for the OTP, and your banking details for refunds.

Why is eFiling saying my details do not match?

SARS verifies your details against Home Affairs. A name spelling difference, an old surname, or an outdated cellphone number on your SARS profile will block registration — visit a SARS branch or book a virtual appointment to correct it.

How do I reset my SARS eFiling password?

Click 'Forgot Password' on the eFiling login page, enter your username, and SARS sends a one-time PIN to the cellphone number and email on your profile.

Do I still have to file a return if my employer deducts PAYE?

Not always. If you have one employer, earn under the SARS filing threshold and have no extra income or deductions to claim, SARS may auto-assess you. Always check your auto-assessment before accepting it.

SARS & Tax

How to Register for SARS eFiling

SARS eFiling is the free online service to file returns, check assessments, and pay taxes. Every individual taxpayer can register — and it's the fastest way to submit an ITR12 return.

Who needs this

Any SA taxpayer who wants to file returns, request tax clearance, or manage tax affairs online.

Quick PAYE estimator

Enter your gross salary to estimate your income tax using the 2027 tax-year brackets and rebates. This is an estimate only — medical credits and retirement deductions are not included.

Gross incomePeriodYour age

Estimated PAYE per month

R4 681

Estimated tax per year

R56 172

Annual taxable income

R360 000

Tax before rebates

R73 992

Rebate applied

− R17 820

Marginal rate

26%

Take-home pay per month (before other deductions)

R25 319

How this estimate is worked out

Gross salary: R30 000 per month · Age group: Under 65 · 2027 tax year

Bracket	Rate	Income taxed here	Tax
R1 – R245 100	18%	R245 100	R44 118
R245 101 – R383 100Your bracket	26%	R114 900	R29 874
Annual taxable income		R360 000
Tax before rebates		R73 992
Rebate applied (primary)		− R17 820
Total PAYE for the year		R56 172
PAYE per month		R4 681

Estimate based on the official SARS 2027 tax tables. Excludes medical scheme credits, retirement contributions and UIF. Source: sars.gov.za

Figures use the official SARS 2027 tax tables. Always confirm on sars.gov.za.

What you need before you start

SA ID number (or passport)
Existing SARS tax number (if you have one — otherwise eFiling registration creates one)
Valid email address and cell number for OTPs

Step-by-step process

1
Go to sarsefiling.co.za
Click 'Register' at the top right, then choose 'For Myself'.
2
Complete your details
Enter your name, ID number, contact details, and residential address exactly as they appear at Home Affairs.
3
Verify by OTP
SARS sends a one-time PIN by SMS and email — you must have access to both.
4
Complete biometric or online verification
SARS may ask you to do a live selfie check or upload supporting documents such as an ID copy and proof of address.
5
Log in and start filing
Once approved, log in and you'll see your tax returns waiting under 'Returns Issued'.

Where, how much, how long

Where to submit

sarsefiling.co.za (online only).

Fees

Free.

Processing time

Usually same day, sometimes up to 21 business days if manual verification is required.

Common rejection reasons

Details don't match Home Affairs records
OTP not received (wrong cell number or email captured)

Official sources

SARS eFiling

Always confirm the latest requirements and fees on the official website before submitting.

Frequently asked questions

Read