It’s not uncommon for people to not know there SARS tax number. Having this number is very important for tax purposes. Keep reading to learn what a SARS tax number is and your various options for getting it.
You Need Your SARS Tax Number
SARS stands for South Africa Revenue Service. A SARS tax number is a tax number that is unique to you. This number is only relevant to those working in South Africa. If your income is above a certain threshold and you don’t pay taxes on it, you run the risk of having to pay hefty fines. More so, you risk being put in jail.
Can You Complete a Tax Return Without an SARS Number?
Once you begin working in South Africa, you must register for your SARS number. If you don’t, your income may be held until you register. Also important to note is that you will not be able to file your annual tax return until you register for your SARS tax number.
How to Register for a SARS Tax Number
To register for your SARS tax number, you must complete the IB-IT77 form. You will send the document to SARS along with any necessary documents, which will likely include the following:
- South African driver’s license
- ID or passport
- Bank details (certified copy of bank statements or cancelled check)
- Income from the last 36 months
If you didn’t work during the last 36 months and have no income to show proof for, you must submit an affidavit to the effect. Once you submit all necessary documentation, SARS will issue you a unique SARS tax number. You will then have access to use the SARS eFiling system.
Do You Need a Business Tax Number?
If you start your own business in South Africa, you will register with the CIPC for a business tax number. To avoid delays, it’s recommended to get professional help with the business tax registration process. You can use the internet to research various organizations that offer help with registering a business. Some services are offered for free while others will cost a fee. Regardless, having help is essential to making sure you register your business correctly.
What to Do if You Forget Your SARS Tax Number
If you forget your SARS tax number, you have three basic options to choose from to retrieve it. You can visit the nearest SARS branch and ask for it. You will need your ID. If you are registered as an eFiler, you can log into the system to retrieve your SARS number. If preferred, you can call the SARS contact center and request it over the phone. You will need your ID number to authenticate your identity.
