Understanding SARS Verification Turnaround Time
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) plays a crucial role in the financial health of the country by ensuring tax compliance. A significant aspect of this process is the verification of tax returns and banking details, which can be a source of anxiety for taxpayers awaiting confirmation of their submissions.
SARS aims to conduct verifications efficiently and has outlined clear guidelines for the process. For general tax return verifications, SARS attempts to complete the verification within 21 working days from the date the relevant supporting documents are submitted. This timeframe is in line with SARS’s service charter, which seeks to balance thoroughness with timeliness.
In the case of updated banking details, SARS strives to verify the information within 24 hours. However, if systematic verification is not possible, the process may extend up to 21 days as per the service charter. This ensures that the banking details are accurate and secure, safeguarding the taxpayer’s financial information.
Taxpayers selected for verification will receive an official letter from SARS detailing the required documents and the submission process. It’s important for taxpayers to respond promptly and provide all the requested information to avoid delays.
The verification process is a testament to SARS’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the tax system. By understanding the expected turnaround times, taxpayers can better prepare for the verification process and ensure they meet all requirements, leading to a smoother and more efficient tax submission experience.
For more detailed information on the verification process and what to expect, clients can contact QBE Tax Partner.