INDIVIDUAL taxpayers have until 31 October to file their personal income tax returns.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) says it has extended its operating hours to Saturdays at all branches in the country until 27 October.
‘It is important to note that the extended hours on Saturdays will only be used to assist with personal income tax returns.
‘In the last month of filing season, the SARS contact centre will be available on Saturdays on 6–27 October from 8 am to 1 pm, to support taxpayers with eFiling.
‘All SARS branches will also be open on Saturdays at the same time where taxpayers can make use of self-help kiosks to electronically file their personal income tax returns.
SARS said the focus this filing season has been on the 24-hour eFiling channel.
Tax payers can use this online service without having to go to a branch.
‘eFilers are supported by the Help-You-eFile mechanism during business hours, which links them to a SARS contact centre agent who can assist the taxpayer to complete their tax return.’
The revenue service has to date reached the 3.3 million mark in tax return submissions for the current year.
‘This is approximately a 4% increase compared to the same time last year. Of these returns, 51% have been submitted through eFiling.
SARS has clamped down on outstanding tax returns, with 18 taxpayers prosecuted this year for not filing a return.
‘These taxpayers, who were publicly named, had ignored SARS’ reminders that they were due to file a return and now possess a criminal record.
‘Fines ranging from R2 000 to R20 000, as well as admission of guilt fines were handed down by the courts, while some were imprisoned.
Administrative penalties will also be applied to late filing of tax returns and range from R200 to R5000.
Taxpayers have also been warned to guard against fraud.
There are instances where tax preparers promise taxpayers a refund in return for a percentage of the refund as a fee.
Fraud is often committed in the name of the taxpayer by claiming fraudulent expenses.
When SARS does identify this fraud the taxpayer will be liable for the full debt as well as penalties.
