How To Submit Your Tax Return Using Sars Efiling 2023 - Step-by-step Guide

How To Submit Your Tax Return Using Sars Efiling 2023

Here's a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to submit your tax return using SARS eFiling for the year 2023, including an explanation of how SARS Auto Assessments work:

Step 1: Gather your documents and information

Collect all the necessary documents and information required to complete your tax return. This may include your IRP5/IT3(a) certificate(s) from your employer(s), investment income statements, medical aid certificates, and any other relevant documentation.

Step 2: Register for SARS eFiling

If you haven't registered for SARS eFiling yet, you'll need to create an account. Visit the SARS eFiling website (www.sarsefiling.co.za) and click on the "Register" button. Follow the prompts to provide your personal details, create a username and password, and verify your identity.

Step 3: Log in to SARS eFiling

Once you have registered, log in to your SARS eFiling account using your username and password.

Step 4: Check your eligibility for Auto Assessment

SARS will determine your eligibility for Auto Assessment based on the information they have on record. If you are eligible, SARS will send you an SMS or email notification informing you that your Auto Assessment is ready. If you didn't receive an Auto Assessment notification, you will need to manually complete your tax return.

Step 5: Review and accept your Auto Assessment (if applicable)

If you received an Auto Assessment notification, log in to your SARS eFiling account and click on the link provided. Review the pre-populated tax return form, ensuring that the information is accurate and complete. If you agree with the assessment, you can accept it by clicking the "Accept" button.

Step 6: Make changes to your Auto Assessment (if necessary)

If you find any errors or need to make changes to your Auto Assessment, you can edit the form before accepting it. Make the necessary adjustments by updating the relevant fields with the correct information. Ensure that all the deductions and credits you are entitled to are included.

Step 7: Manually complete your tax return (if not eligible for Auto Assessment)

If you are not eligible for Auto Assessment, you'll need to manually complete your tax return. Click on the "Returns" tab in your SARS eFiling account, select the relevant tax year (2023), and choose the appropriate tax return form (ITR12 for individuals). Fill in all the required fields with accurate information.

Step 8: Submit your tax return

After reviewing and ensuring the accuracy of your tax return, click on the "Submit" button to officially submit it to SARS.

Step 9: Verification and assessment

SARS will receive your tax return and conduct a verification process. They may request additional documents or information to support your claims. Once the assessment is completed, SARS will inform you of the outcome, either through the eFiling platform or by mail.

Step 10: Payment or refund

If you owe taxes, SARS will provide instructions on how to make the payment. If you are eligible for a refund, SARS will process it and deposit the funds into your nominated bank account.

Remember, it's essential to keep copies of all the documents and submissions for your records. If you have any questions or encounter difficulties during the process, you can reach out to SARS for assistance through their helpline or online support channels.

Submitting your tax return using SARS eFiling streamlines the process, reduces errors, and ensures efficient communication with SARS. If you are eligible for Auto Assessment, it simplifies the process even further by pre-populating your tax return form based on the information SARS has on record.