The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has paid out billions in tax refunds since the start of the 2026 tax filing season. However, taxpayers expecting funds can track the status of their refund through the service's digital channels.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has paid out billions in tax refunds since the start of the 2026 tax filing season. However, taxpayers expecting funds can track the status of their refund through the service's digital channels.
Last week, SARS reported that approximately 1.9 million taxpayers underwent automated assessment, with about 8 billion paid out in refunds within 72 hours of the filing season opening. The service expects to conduct automated assessments for roughly six million taxpayers throughout the season. This process is designed to simplify tax filing while allowing taxpayers to verify their data and ensure the accuracy of submitted returns.
Automated assessments are pre-filled tax returns created by SARS using information obtained from third parties, including banks, employers, medical scheme administrators, and pension funds. Although the goal of the process is simplification, the responsibility for verifying the correctness of the information before accepting the assessment remains with the taxpayers.
Although some taxpayers have already received their refunds, others may still be awaiting payment processing. IOL previously reported that not everyone will benefit from the automated assessment system. The service stated that the process only works when the taxpayer's information is complete, consistent, and verified through third-party data sources, such as banks and employers.
The service clarified: 'You will not receive an automated assessment if your personal information is incomplete (you can update your details on eFiling). You will also not be subject to automated assessment if you earn income other than salary and investment income, such as rental income.'
There are several convenient digital channels to check the status of a tax refund. A taxpayer can use SARS WhatsApp by sending 'Hi' or 'Hello' to the number 0800 11 7277. They must then select the 'Refund Status' option, enter their identification number, passport number, or refugee number, provide their tax account number, and submit the request.
The SARS MobiApp mobile platform is also available: one should open the application, tap 'Refund Status' on the main screen, and follow the instructions. Additionally, the SARS USSD service can be used by dialing *134*7277# and selecting option 3, after which the identification number, passport number, or refugee number must be entered.