SARS eFiling Registration Guide 2025: Complete Step-by-Step Setup

SARS eFiling is the South African Revenue Service's online platform for managing all your tax affairs digitally. Whether you need to submit tax returns, check refund status, request tax certificates, or make payments, eFiling is your gateway to efficient, paperless tax administration.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of registering for SARS eFiling, from initial registration to full profile setup, with detailed instructions, troubleshooting tips, and best practices for 2025.

What is SARS eFiling?

SARS eFiling is a free, secure online portal that allows South African taxpayers to:

Core Functions:

• Submit income tax returns (ITR12, IRP5/IT3a)

• File provisional tax returns

• Request tax clearance certificates

• Track tax refunds

• Make tax payments

• Update personal details

• Register for new tax types

• View tax statements and notices

• Communicate with SARS

• Access tax directives

Benefits Over Manual Filing:

• ✅ 24/7 access from anywhere

• ✅ Instant submission confirmation

• ✅ Faster refund processing (21 days vs 6+ weeks)

• ✅ Automatic calculations reduce errors

• ✅ Electronic record keeping

• ✅ Real-time status tracking

• ✅ No need to visit SARS branches

• ✅ Pre-populated returns save time

Usage Statistics:

• Over 3 million active users

• 90% of individual returns submitted via eFiling

• Average return submission time: 20 minutes

Who Needs to Register for eFiling?

Mandatory Registration

You must register for eFiling if you:

• Earn income over the tax threshold (R95,750 for under 65s in 2025/2026)

• Are a provisional taxpayer (self-employed, freelancer, contractor)

• Receive rental income

• Have foreign income

• Operate a business or company

• Are a trust administrator

• Need tax clearance certificates regularly

Recommended Registration

You should register even if not mandatory:

• To claim tax refunds faster

• To access tax certificates online

• To update personal details easily

• To track all tax matters in one place

• To avoid SARS branch queues

Exceptions

You don't need eFiling if:

• Your only income is from salary (IRP5)

• Your employer handles all tax deductions

• You don't need to claim additional deductions

• You never need tax certificates

However, even in these cases, eFiling is still recommended for convenience.

Before You Begin: Requirements Checklist

Gather these documents before starting your registration:

Essential Documents

1. Valid South African ID or Passport

• South African citizens: Green ID book or smart ID card

• Foreign nationals: Valid passport with work permit

2. SARS Tax Reference Number

• Appears on previous tax returns

• Or on IRP5 from employer

• If you don't have one: Can be generated during registration

3. Banking Details

• Bank name

• Account number

• Account type (savings, cheque, transmission)

• Branch code (can be looked up online)

4. Contact Information

• Current physical address

• Postal address

• Valid email address (will be used for all communications)

• Working cellphone number

5. Income Documents (Optional but Helpful)

• Latest IRP5 from employer

• IT3(b) certificates (interest/dividends)

• Proof of additional income sources

Technical Requirements

Device Requirements:

• Computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone

• Internet connection (minimum 2Mbps for smooth experience)

• Modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)

• PDF reader (for viewing returns and documents)

Browser Settings:

• JavaScript enabled

• Cookies enabled

• Pop-up blocker disabled for sarsefiling.co.za

Security Recommendations:

• Antivirus software up to date

• Secure internet connection (avoid public WiFi for registration)

• Private browsing mode for added security

Step-by-Step eFiling Registration Process

Step 1: Access the SARS eFiling Website

Navigate to: https://www.sarsefiling.co.za

Visual Verification:

• Check the URL shows a padlock icon (secure connection)

• Verify the URL is exactly "sarsefiling.co.za"

• Look for SARS branding and logo

Warning: Beware of phishing sites. Only use the official SARS eFiling website. Never enter your details on sites received via email or SMS links.

Step 2: Click "Register" Button

On the eFiling homepage:

1. Locate the "Register" button (top right corner)

2. Click to begin the registration process

3. You'll be directed to the registration wizard

Alternative Access:

• From login page, click "New User? Click here to register"

• Scroll to bottom of homepage, click "Register for eFiling"

Step 3: Accept Terms and Conditions

Read the eFiling Terms of Use:

• User responsibilities

• Security requirements

• Privacy policy

• Acceptable use policy

Actions:

1. Scroll through the entire terms document

2. Check the box: "I accept the terms and conditions"

3. Click "Accept and Continue"

Important: These terms govern your use of eFiling. You're responsible for keeping your password secure and not sharing login credentials.

Step 4: Choose Registration Type

You'll see three registration options:

Option A: Individual/Sole Proprietor (Most Common)

Select this if:

• You're registering for personal tax returns

• You're self-employed as a sole proprietor

• You have individual income to declare

Requires:

• SA ID number OR passport number

• Tax reference number (or generate new one)

Option B: Company/Trust/Other Entity

Select this if:

• Registering for company tax (CC, Pty Ltd, etc.)

• Trust administration

• Non-profit organizations

• Partnerships

Requires:

• Entity registration number

• Company/trust tax reference number

• CIPC registration documents

Option C: Tax Practitioner

Select this if:

• You're a registered tax practitioner

• Registering to file on behalf of clients

• You need SARS practitioner number

Requires:

• Tax practitioner number

• Professional registration details

• Indemnity insurance proof

For this guide, we'll focus on Option A: Individual/Sole Proprietor (most common scenario).

Step 5: Enter Personal Identification

Screen: Personal Details

Field 1: Identity Type

• Select "SA Identity Number" (for SA citizens)

• OR "Passport Number" (for foreign nationals)

Field 2: Enter ID/Passport Number

• Type your 13-digit SA ID number carefully

• Double-check for accuracy

• System validates the format automatically

Field 3: Enter Your Names

• First Names: As per ID document (all names)

• Surname: Family name as per ID

System Verification:

• SARS validates your details against Department of Home Affairs

• If details don't match, you'll see an error

• Ensure your ID document is valid and not reported lost/stolen

Troubleshooting:

• Error: "ID number not found" → Your ID may not be on Home Affairs system; visit SARS branch

• Error: "ID number already registered" → You already have an eFiling account; use password reset

• Error: "ID number invalid" → Double-check you've typed it correctly

Step 6: Tax Reference Number

Option 1: I Have a Tax Reference Number

• Enter your 10-digit tax number

• Found on: Previous tax returns, IRP5, or SARS correspondence

• Format: 0123456789 (10 digits)

Option 2: I Don't Have a Tax Reference Number

• Select "Generate new tax reference number"

• SARS will create one for you instantly

• This number will be your permanent tax identifier

What if I can't remember my tax number?

• Check previous tax returns or IRP5 from employer

• Look at old SARS correspondence

• Call SARS: 0800 00 7ars (7277)

• Visit SARS branch with ID

Step 7: Contact Information

Critical Fields - Be Accurate:

Email Address:

• Enter a valid, active email address

• This will be your primary communication channel

• SARS sends ALL correspondence here

• Use an email you check regularly

• Format: yourname@example.com

Best Practice: Use a personal email, not work email (in case you change jobs).

Confirm Email Address:

• Re-type your email exactly

• System checks both entries match

Cellphone Number:

• Enter 10-digit mobile number

• Format: 0821234567

• Used for SMS notifications

• Required for OTP (One-Time PIN) security

Alternative Contact Number (Optional):

• Home or work number

• Useful backup contact method

Step 8: Residential and Postal Addresses

Physical/Residential Address:

• Street number and name

• Suburb

• City

• Province

• Postal code

Important: Enter your actual residential address. SARS may mail documents here.

Postal Address:

• Check box: "Same as residential address" (if applicable)

• OR enter different postal address

• PO Box numbers accepted

Address Formatting Tips:

• Use proper capitalization

• Include all relevant details (unit numbers, complex names)

• No abbreviations (use "Street" not "St")

• Double-check postal codes (4-digit format)

Step 9: Banking Details

Why SARS Needs Banking Details:

• To deposit tax refunds directly (fastest method)

• For EFT payments from you to SARS

• Secure and verified account in your name

Required Information:

Bank Name:

• Select from dropdown list

• All major SA banks listed (ABSA, Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank, Capitec, etc.)

Account Type:

• Cheque/Current account

• Savings account

• Transmission account

Account Number:

• Enter your bank account number

• Format varies by bank (7-11 digits typically)

• No spaces or dashes

Branch Code:

• Enter your bank branch code

• Or select branch from dropdown

• Look up online if unsure: Google "[Your Bank] branch codes"

Account Holder Name:

• Must match the name on the eFiling profile

• Cannot use someone else's account

• Joint accounts: use primary account holder name

Verification:

• SARS may verify account via small test deposit

• Check your account is active and not frozen

Security Note: Your banking details are encrypted and secure. SARS never asks for PIN or OTP codes.

Step 10: Security Questions Setup

Purpose: Additional security for password resets and account recovery.

You'll Set Three Security Questions:

Examples of Questions:

• What is your mother's maiden name?

• What was the name of your first pet?

• In which city were you born?

• What is your favorite color?

• What was your first car?

Choosing Strong Answers:

• Select questions you'll definitely remember

• Don't use easily guessable information (avoid public social media details)

• Answers are case-sensitive

• Write them down in a secure place

Best Practice: Use unique answers not posted on social media. If your mother's maiden name is on Facebook, that's not secure.

Step 11: Create Your Password

SARS eFiling Password Requirements:

Must contain:

• Minimum 8 characters

• At least 1 uppercase letter (A-Z)

• At least 1 lowercase letter (a-z)

• At least 1 number (0-9)

• At least 1 special character (!@#$%^&*)

Cannot contain:

• Your name or surname

• Your ID number

• Common words ("password", "123456", etc.)

• Sequential characters ("abcd", "1234")

Example Strong Password:

• MyS@rs2025Tax!

• Efil1ng#Secure

Password Security Tips:

• Use a unique password (not used elsewhere)

• Consider a password manager

• Never share your password with anyone

• Change it every 6 months

• Don't write it on sticky notes on your computer

Confirm Password:

• Re-type your password exactly

• Must match first entry

Step 12: Review and Submit

Final Verification Screen:

Review all entered information:

• ✓ Personal details (names, ID number)

• ✓ Tax reference number

• ✓ Email address (check for typos!)

• ✓ Contact numbers

• ✓ Residential address

• ✓ Postal address

• ✓ Banking details (account number, branch code)

Actions:

• Check every field carefully

• Click "Edit" next to any section to make changes

• Once satisfied, click "Submit Registration"

What Happens Next:

1. System processes your registration (10-30 seconds)

2. Validates all information

3. Creates your eFiling profile

4. Generates registration confirmation

Step 13: Email Verification

Check Your Email Inbox:

Within 5-10 minutes, you'll receive:

• Email subject: "SARS eFiling Registration Confirmation"

• From: efiling@sars.gov.za

Email Contains:

• Your tax reference number

• Your eFiling username (usually your ID number)

• Confirmation link to activate account

Action Required:

1. Open the email

2. Click the "Activate Account" link

3. You'll be redirected to eFiling website

4. Account is now fully activated

Didn't Receive Email?

• Check spam/junk folder

• Wait up to 30 minutes

• Verify email address was entered correctly

• Request resend via eFiling website

• Call SARS helpline: 0800 00 7277

Step 14: First Login

Return to: https://www.sarsefiling.co.za

Login Credentials:

• Username: Your SA ID number (or tax reference number)

• Password: The password you created during registration

Steps:

1. Enter username (ID number)

2. Enter password

3. Click "Login"

4. System may ask for security verification (OTP via SMS)

5. Enter OTP code from SMS

6. Click "Verify"

Success! You're now logged into your SARS eFiling account.

Post-Registration: Profile Setup

Complete Your Tax Profile

After first login, complete these important steps:

1. Verify Personal Information

Navigate to: Home > SARS Registered Details

Verify:

• Name and surname are correct

• ID number is correct

• Tax reference number is shown

• Status shows: "Active"

If Anything is Wrong:

• Minor errors: Update via eFiling "Request Change" function

• Major errors (name, ID): Visit SARS branch with ID

2. Register for Tax Types

Navigate to: Home > Tax Types

Common Tax Types to Register:

For Employees:

• ✓ Income Tax: Personal (already registered)

• ✓ Tax Directive (if needed)

For Self-Employed:

• ✓ Income Tax: Personal

• ✓ Provisional Tax

• ✓ VAT (if turnover over R1 million)

For Property Owners:

• ✓ Income Tax: Personal

• ✓ Rental Income

To Register Additional Tax Type:

1. Click "Register" next to the tax type

2. Complete the registration form

3. Submit for processing

4. Approval takes 3-7 business days

3. Link Returns to Your Profile

If you filed tax manually in previous years:

Navigate to: Home > Returns > Link Returns

Steps:

1. Click "Link Previous Returns"

2. Select tax year

3. System searches for historical returns

4. Confirm returns are yours

5. They'll appear in your eFiling history

4. Set Up Payment Methods

Navigate to: Home > Payments

Add Payment Methods:

• EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) - most common

• Credit/Debit card

• Direct deposit

Why Set This Up:

• Faster tax payments

• View payment history

• Set up payment arrangements if needed

5. Enable Notifications

Navigate to: Home > User Profile > Notifications

Enable:

• ✓ Email notifications for returns due

• ✓ SMS alerts for refund status

• ✓ Email for SARS correspondence

• ✓ Alerts for outstanding returns

Benefit: Never miss important SARS deadlines.

Understanding Your eFiling Dashboard

Dashboard Overview

After login, your dashboard shows:

Top Section: Quick Stats

• Outstanding returns

• Refund status

• Payments due

• Recent activity

Left Menu: Main Navigation

• Home

• Returns (File, View, Track)

• Payments (Make Payment, View History)

• Refunds (Track Refunds)

• Work Online (Request Services)

• SARS Correspondence

• Help

Center: Action Items

• Returns ready to file

• Required actions

• Notifications

Right Panel: Important Dates

• Tax return deadlines

• Provisional tax dates

• Payment due dates

Key Functions Overview

1. File Returns

• Click: Returns > File Income Tax Return

• Select tax year

• Complete and submit

2. Track Refund

• Click: Refunds > Track Refund

• View status: Processing, Approved, Paid

3. View Tax Statements

• Click: Returns > View Statements

• Download tax assessments

• View payment records

4. Request Tax Clearance

• Click: Work Online > Request Tax Clearance

• Complete application

• Download certificate when ready

5. Update Details

• Click: User Profile > Registered Details

• Request changes to address, banking, etc.

Common Registration Issues and Solutions

Issue 1: "ID Number Already Registered"

Problem: System says your ID is already linked to an account.

Causes:

• You registered before and forgot

• Someone used your ID fraudulently

• Employer registered on your behalf

Solutions:

1. Use "Forgot Password" to reset and access existing account

2. Call SARS: 0800 00 7277 to verify account

3. If fraud suspected: Visit SARS branch immediately with ID

Issue 2: "ID Number Not on System"

Problem: Home Affairs database doesn't show your ID.

Causes:

• New ID not yet on system

• ID recently changed/updated

• System sync delays

Solutions:

1. Wait 48 hours and try again (system sync time)

2. Visit Department of Home Affairs to verify ID is registered

3. Visit SARS branch with ID and Home Affairs confirmation

Issue 3: Email Verification Not Received

Problem: Activation email doesn't arrive.

Solutions:

1. Check spam/junk folder

2. Add efiling@sars.gov.za to safe senders

3. Wait 30 minutes (system delays possible)

4. Request resend: eFiling > Resend Verification Email

5. Try different email address if persistent issues

Issue 4: "Tax Number Invalid"

Problem: System doesn't recognize your tax reference number.

Solutions:

1. Verify number is exactly 10 digits

2. Check old tax returns or IRP5 for correct number

3. Call SARS: 0800 00 7277 for verification

4. Use "Generate New Number" option if you never had one

Issue 5: Banking Details Not Accepted

Problem: System rejects your bank account information.

Causes:

• Account number incorrect

• Branch code incorrect

• Account not in your name

• Account closed/frozen

Solutions:

1. Verify account number on bank statement

2. Confirm branch code (check online or call bank)

3. Ensure account is in your name (matching eFiling profile)

4. Check account is active (not frozen)

5. Try different account if issues persist

Issue 6: Password Doesn't Meet Requirements

Problem: Password rejected during creation.

Common Mistakes:

• Too short (needs 8+ characters)

• No special characters

• No uppercase letters

• Contains personal information (name, ID)

Solution: Create password with:

• 8+ characters

• Mix of upper/lower case

• At least one number

• At least one special character (!@#$%)

• No personal information

Issue 7: OTP Code Not Received

Problem: SMS with OTP doesn't arrive.

Solutions:

1. Verify cellphone number is correct in profile

2. Check phone signal strength

3. Wait up to 5 minutes (SMS delays)

4. Request new OTP code

5. Check if SMS from SARS is blocked on your phone

6. Try alternative verification method

Issue 8: Browser Compatibility Issues

Problem: eFiling website doesn't load properly or features don't work.

Solutions:

1. Use updated browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari)

2. Clear browser cache and cookies

3. Disable pop-up blocker for sarsefiling.co.za

4. Enable JavaScript

5. Try different browser

6. Disable browser extensions temporarily

Security Best Practices

Protect Your eFiling Account

1. Strong Password Security

• Use unique password (not used elsewhere)

• Change every 6 months

• Never share with anyone (including tax practitioners)

• Don't save on public/shared computers

2. Secure Login Practices

• Always log out after finishing

• Never save password in browser on shared computers

• Use private browsing on public computers

• Avoid public WiFi for accessing eFiling

3. Recognize Phishing Attempts

• SARS never asks for PIN or OTP via email/SMS

• Always type sarsefiling.co.za manually (don't click email links)

• Verify website URL shows padlock icon

• SARS never requests remote access to your computer

4. Monitor Your Account

• Check eFiling regularly for unauthorized activity

• Review correspondence for returns you didn't file

• Verify refunds match your expectations

• Report suspicious activity immediately: 0800 00 7277

5. Two-Factor Authentication

• eFiling uses OTP codes for added security

• Keep cellphone number updated

• Never share OTP codes with anyone

• SARS never calls asking for OTP codes

What to Do If Your Account Is Compromised

If you suspect unauthorized access:

Immediate Actions:

1. Change your password immediately

2. Update security questions

3. Call SARS helpline: 0800 00 7277

4. Report fraud via eFiling: Work Online > Report Fraud

5. Visit SARS branch with ID to verify account status

Follow-Up:

• Monitor account closely for 6 months

• Check for unauthorized returns or changes

• Request account activity report from SARS

• Consider police report if fraudulent returns filed

Getting Help with eFiling

SARS Contact Channels

1. eFiling Help Function

• Available within eFiling portal

• Click: Help > User Guides

• FAQs, tutorials, step-by-step guides

2. SARS Contact Centre

• Phone: 0800 00 7277 (SARS)

• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm

• Closed: Public holidays

• Average wait: 10-20 minutes

3. SARS Branch Visits

• Locate nearest branch: sars.gov.za > Contact Us

• Book appointment via eFiling (recommended)

• Walk-ins possible but expect queues

• Bring: ID, tax reference number, supporting documents

4. SARS Social Media

• Twitter: @sarstax

• Facebook: South African Revenue Service

• Response time: 24-48 hours

• Good for general queries (not personal tax matters)

5. Email Support

• Email: contact@sars.gov.za

• Response time: 3-5 business days

• Not recommended for urgent matters

When to Visit a SARS Branch

Visit SARS branch for:

• ID verification issues during registration

• Suspected fraud on your account

• Complex registration problems

• Dispute resolution

• Manual return assistance (if eFiling not working)

Book Appointment:

1. Log into eFiling

2. Work Online > Book Appointment

3. Select branch, date, time

4. Arrive 10 minutes early with ID

Tax Practitioner Assistance

Consider hiring a tax practitioner if:

• You have complex tax affairs

• You're self-employed with multiple income sources

• You own rental properties or investments

• You need strategic tax planning

• You don't have time to manage tax yourself

Finding a Registered Tax Practitioner:

• Search SARS website: Registered Tax Practitioners

• Verify registration with SARS

• Ask for references

• Understand their fee structure

Practitioner eFiling Access:

• You can grant your practitioner access to your eFiling

• They file on your behalf

• You maintain oversight and final approval

• Revocable at any time

Maintaining Your eFiling Account

Regular Account Maintenance

Monthly:

• ✓ Check for new correspondence

• ✓ Verify no unexpected activity

• ✓ Review outstanding returns or payments

Quarterly:

• ✓ Update address if you moved

• ✓ Update banking details if changed

• ✓ Review and update contact information

Annually:

• ✓ Change password

• ✓ Review security questions

• ✓ Update profile information

• ✓ Check linked tax types are current

Updating Your Information

To Update Details:

1. Banking Details

• Home > User Profile > Banking Details

• Click "Update Banking Details"

• Enter new information

• Submit for verification (takes 2-3 days)

2. Contact Information

• Home > User Profile > Registered Details

• Click "Request Change"

• Update email, phone, addresses

• Submit request (approved within 24 hours)

3. Tax Types

• Home > Tax Types

• Register new types as needed

• Deregister unused tax types

Important: Some changes (name, ID number) require SARS branch visit with supporting documents.

Next Steps After Registration

Immediate Actions

1. File Outstanding Returns (if any)

• Check: Home > Returns > Outstanding Returns

• File immediately to avoid penalties

• Penalties accrue monthly for late filing

2. Link Historical Returns

• Home > Returns > Link Returns

• Links pre-eFiling tax history

• Useful for verification and refund tracking

3. Set Up Auto-Fill for Future Returns

• eFiling auto-fills from employer IRP5 submissions

• Verify employer details are correct

• Speeds up future tax return submissions

4. Explore eFiling Features

• Familiarize yourself with dashboard

• Review available services

• Watch tutorial videos: Help > Video Guides

5. Mark Important Dates

• Tax return deadline: October/November (non-provisional)

• Provisional tax: Aug 31 & Feb 28

• Payment due dates

• Set calendar reminders

Long-Term eFiling Success

Develop Good Habits:

• Log in at least monthly

• Respond to SARS correspondence promptly

• Keep personal information updated

• File returns early (don't wait for deadline)

• Maintain organized tax records

Use Our Tax Calculator:
Calculate your tax obligations before filing: SA Income Tax Calculator

Conclusion

Registering for SARS eFiling is your first step toward efficient, digital tax management. While the registration process involves multiple steps, following this guide ensures smooth, error-free setup.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Registration is free and takes 15-30 minutes

✅ You'll need: ID, tax number, banking details, email

✅ Verification email arrives within 10 minutes

✅ First login may require OTP via SMS

✅ Complete profile setup after registration

✅ Keep login credentials secure - never share password

What's Next:

• Read our guide: How to Submit Tax Returns on SARS eFiling

• Learn about: SARS Provisional Tax Returns

• Understand: How to Track Your SARS Tax Refund

With your eFiling account active, you now have 24/7 access to all SARS services, faster refunds, and the convenience of managing taxes from anywhere. Welcome to digital tax administration in South Africa!

Need Help? Call SARS: 0800 00 7277 or visit your nearest SARS branch.