Do You Really Have to Submit a Tax Return? SARS Explains Who Must File in 2025
As the 2025 tax season approaches, many South Africans wonder if they need to submit a tax return. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has clarified who must file and who qualifies for automatic assessments. This guide breaks down the key requirements, deadlines, and processes to help you navigate tax season smoothly.
ALSO READ: SARS MobiApp vs eFiling: Which Is Better for Your Tax Filing and Why?
Who Must File a Tax Return in 2025?
SARS requires individuals who are registered for income tax to submit an annual tax return unless they qualify for auto-assessment. Typically, taxpayers with more complex financial affairs, such as multiple income sources, business income, or capital gains, must file manually. This includes provisional taxpayers, trusts, and companies operating in South Africa.
On the other hand, SARS automatically assesses taxpayers with simpler tax profiles. These include salaried employees whose employers submit accurate monthly PAYE (Pay-As-You-Earn) data, as well as those with straightforward income and deductions. If you receive an auto-assessment notification from SARS, you do not need to file a return unless you disagree with the assessment.
What Is SARS Auto-Assessment and How Does It Work?
Auto-assessment is SARS’s way of simplifying tax compliance. Using third-party data from employers, banks, medical schemes, and retirement funds, SARS pre-populates your tax return and issues an assessment. Between July 7 and July 20, 2025, SARS will notify qualifying taxpayers via SMS or email.
If you agree with the auto-assessment, you do not need to take further action. You can expect any refund within about 72 hours, provided your banking details are up to date with SARS. However, if you disagree with the assessment, you can log into SARS eFiling or the MobiApp, amend your return, and submit it before the deadline.
Important Tax Season Dates for 2025
The 2025 tax filing season officially opens on July 7 and closes on October 20 for non-provisional taxpayers. Provisional taxpayers and trusts have an extended deadline until January 19, 2026. Taxpayers who do not receive auto-assessment notifications must file their returns manually starting July 21, 2025.
SARS urges taxpayers to prepare early by gathering all necessary documents, such as IRP5s, medical aid certificates, and retirement annuity details. Ensuring your banking and contact details are current on SARS eFiling will help avoid delays in refunds or communications.
Who Does Not Need to File a Tax Return?
Some taxpayers are exempt from filing returns in 2025. If SARS has sufficient third-party data and your tax affairs are straightforward, you may fall into the auto-assessed category. Additionally, individuals with no income or below the tax threshold may not be required to file.
However, if you earn income from sources not reported to SARS or have complex deductions, you must file. Always check your status on SARS eFiling or contact SARS directly to confirm your filing obligations.
How to File Your Tax Return
If you must file, SARS provides multiple convenient options. You can submit your return online via SARS eFiling or the SARS MobiApp. Alternatively, you can book an appointment to file at a SARS branch. Using eFiling is recommended for faster processing and easier management of your tax affairs.
During filing, review all pre-populated information carefully and add any missing income or deductions. Submit your return before the deadline to avoid penalties or interest charges.
Stay Informed and Compliant in 2025
Understanding whether you need to submit a tax return is crucial to avoid unnecessary stress during tax season. SARS’s auto-assessment system helps many taxpayers by simplifying the process, but those with complex finances still need to file manually. Prepare early, keep your details updated, and meet deadlines to ensure a smooth tax experience in 2025.
