The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has warned trust managers about the necessity of meeting tax obligations with the start of the 2026 trust tax return filing season. The revenue service is paying particular attention to cases of non-filing, assessed losses, and the accurate disclosure of trust assets and income.
The filing season for trusts began last weekend and will run until January 22, 2027. SARS has stipulated that all qualified trusts are required to submit their Income Tax Return for Trusts (ITR12T). Furthermore, passive trust managers have been reminded to declare assets, liabilities, income, and associated expenses.
As part of its compliance efforts, the revenue service will also focus on zero returns and positions with assessed losses. SARS has stated that it is simplifying the registration process by providing a convenient digital solution through the SARS Online Query System, available on the SARS website.
Managers remain responsible for the trust's tax affairs
SARS added that the responsibility for the trust's tax matters lies with the managers, even if they engage a tax specialist to assist in fulfilling their duties. The revenue service also reminded managers that any changes to the registered trust data, including changes in managers, contact details, and addresses, must be reported to SARS within 21 working days.
SARS emphasizes that the exclusive responsibility for obtaining, maintaining, and updating accurate information about the trust rests solely with the managers. The Trust Property Control Act No. 57 of 1988 (TPCA) requires managers to act with due care, diligence, and skill in managing the trust's affairs. Although managers may delegate certain functions to a tax specialist, the ultimate responsibility for the trust's tax compliance remains with them.
What has changed in form ITR12T
This year, form ITR12T has been improved: information on income, distributed amounts, and certain expenses is now pre-filled using data from IT3(t). Beneficiary schedules will also be completed using third-party information. The revenue service noted that the return now includes expanded questions regarding beneficial ownership, and the tax specialist's contact details have become mandatory.
Managers can submit ITR12T through the SARS eFiling system or at a SARS branch by appointment. SARS has indicated that a simplified form is available for passive trusts on eFiling.



