More than 2.7 million taxpayers submit annual tax returns

The South African Revenue Service (Sars) announced this afternoon that more than 2.7 million taxpayers have submitted their tax returns since the opening of the tax season in July 2017.

The revenue collections authority thanked all 2 794 952 taxpayers who have submitted their returns timeously and noted that the number represents an increase of 3.6% compared to last year’s figure this time.

Sars said by Monday, October  2, it had paid more than R62.1 billion in refunds to taxpayers. Of this amount, R49.8 billion in VAT refunds was disbursed and R12.3 billion in Personal Income Tax refunds.

Sars Commissioner Tom Moyane also expressed appreciation to taxpayers and the team of more than 14 000 Sars employees who worked tirelessly to assist taxpayers with various queries and filing procedures.

“As Sars, we are thankful for the level of compliance amongst taxpayers who make it possible for the state to carry out its mandate. Also, we are proud of the passion, commitment and dedication displayed by Sars employees to provide excellent service throughout the country.

“Sars would like to remind taxpayers that e-filing is the quickest and easiest method of meeting one’s tax obligations,” said Moyane.