SARS

How to Register for SARS eFiling: Step-by-Step Guide

ByWIKIBIO

If you want to submit your tax returns online, update your details, or manage your tax affairs without visiting a branch, registering for SARS eFiling is the first step.

The system is managed by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and allows individuals, businesses, and tax practitioners to interact with SARS digitally.

This guide explains exactly how to register for SARS eFiling, step by step.

What You Need Before You Start

Make sure you have:

  • Your South African ID number (or passport number if foreign national)
  • Your income tax reference number (if already registered for tax)
  • Your email address
  • Your cellphone number (registered in your name)
  • Access to the internet

Step-by-Step: How to Register for SARS eFiling

There are 10 simple steps to complete your registration.

Step 1: Visit the Official SARS Website

Go to the official SARS website:
www.sars.gov.za

Click on “Register” under the eFiling section.

Step 2: Select “Individual” Registration

Choose “Register for eFiling” as an individual taxpayer.

If you are registering a company or organisation, select the business option instead.

Step 3: Accept the Terms and Conditions

Read through the terms and conditions carefully.

Tick the box to confirm acceptance and click “Continue.”

Step 4: Enter Your Personal Details

Provide:

  • ID number
  • Full names (as per ID)
  • Surname
  • Date of birth

Make sure the information matches your Home Affairs records.

Step 5: Capture Your Contact Details

Enter:

  • Your email address
  • Your cellphone number

SARS will use these details to send One-Time Pins (OTPs) for verification.

Step 6: Create Login Details

Choose:

  • A unique username
  • A strong password

Your password must meet security requirements (uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols).

Step 7: Verify with OTP

SARS will send an OTP to your cellphone or email.

Enter the OTP to verify your account.

Step 8: Complete Security Setup

Set up security questions for future login protection.

Keep this information safe.

Step 9: Link Your Tax Reference Number

If you are already registered for income tax:

  • Enter your tax reference number.
  • Confirm your details.

If you are not yet registered for tax, SARS may prompt you to register for income tax first.

Step 10: Registration Complete

Once verification is successful:

  • You will receive confirmation.
  • You can now log in to SARS eFiling.
  • Your dashboard will display available services.

After Registration: What Can You Do?

Once registered, you can:

  • Submit your annual tax return (ITR12)
  • Check your tax compliance status
  • Request tax clearance certificates
  • Update banking details
  • View notices and correspondence
  • Make payments

How Long Does Registration Take?

If all your details match SARS records, registration usually takes 10 to 20 minutes.

However, if there are mismatches with Home Affairs or your tax number, additional verification may be required.

Common Problems During Registration

You may experience delays if:

  • Your cellphone number is not RICA registered in your name
  • Your contact details differ from SARS records
  • Your tax number cannot be found
  • Your ID details do not match Home Affairs

If this happens, you may need to use SARS Online Query System or visit a branch.

Final Advice

Registering for SARS eFiling is free and secure. Always use the official SARS website and never share your login details with anyone.

Once registered, managing your tax affairs becomes easier, faster, and more convenient without standing in long queues.

If you want, I can also write a guide on how to submit your first tax return after registering.

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