🔥 Trending SARS Filing Season 2026: Key Dates and What You Need to Know

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced the key dates for the 2026 tax filing season, which officially begins on July 1, 2026 ¹²³⁷. This season covers the tax year that ran from March 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026 ⁸.

Key Dates and Deadlines for SARS Filing Season 2026

The 2026 filing season introduces a phased approach, starting with auto-assessments and followed by the opening of manual filing channels ⁸.

Auto-Assessments

SARS will begin issuing auto-assessments from July 1, 2026 ²⁶⁷. This initial period for auto-assessments is expected to run until July 12, 2026 ⁸. Taxpayers who qualify for auto-assessment will receive their assessment during this time ⁶.

Manual Filing (eFiling and SARS Branches)

For taxpayers who need to file manually or who wish to review and accept/edit their auto-assessments, the eFiling platform will open on July 13, 2026 ⁸. This allows taxpayers to submit their returns online or visit SARS branches for assistance.

Submission Deadlines

The deadlines for submitting tax returns vary depending on the taxpayer's category:

• Non-Provisional Taxpayers: The deadline for non-provisional taxpayers is October 23, 2026 ⁵.
• Provisional Taxpayers and Trusts: Provisional taxpayers and trusts have until January 22, 2027, to submit their returns ⁵.

What to Expect in Filing Season 2026

SARS is continuing its efforts to become a more modern and efficient organization, aiming to simplify the tax process for taxpayers ¹. Key aspects of the 2026 filing season include:

• Auto-Assessments: A significant number of taxpayers, estimated at around six million, will receive auto-assessments ⁶. Taxpayers are encouraged to check if they qualify and to review these assessments carefully ⁶. If an auto-assessment is incorrect, taxpayers have the option to edit and resubmit their return ⁶.
• eFiling Enhancements: SARS is continuously working on improving the eFiling system to manage high traffic and provide a smoother user experience ⁴.
• Support and Resources: SARS will provide updated guides and leaflets to help taxpayers prepare for the filing season ⁴.

Taxpayers are advised to stay informed about these dates and to gather all necessary documentation in advance to ensure a smooth filing process ³.