The South African Revenue Service (SARS), released an official statement on Tuesday 9, November stating that income tax returns should and needs to be completed by Tuesday 23, November as penalties will be levied from 1 December if one or more returns are found outstanding.

“Taxpayers must note that according to changes in legislation, SARS will levy penalties from 1 December 2021 where one or more returns are outstanding,” the statement said.

“Before the change in the legislation, SARS could only levy penalties where two or more returns were outstanding. This older rule will remain in place for one more year for 2020 and earlier returns.

The tax law organization refreshed the public’s collective memory that filing income tax returns are mandated by law.

Additionally, paying tax also ensures our poorer countrymen are provided with needed financial assistance.

“But beyond the legal requirement to file a return, taxpayers who do the right thing are enabling the government to meet the basic service needs of the poor and vulnerable by providing social grants and health care, amongst others,” SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter said.

To facilitate simpler and more accessible consultancy, SARS created several new online channels that are available 24/7.

“This will help provide clarity and make it easy for taxpayers to meet the deadline of 23 November without any difficulty. These channels include amongst others, SARS eFiling, SARS MobiApp, and SMS service. More details are available on the SARS website,” he said.