Tax season 2026 – what you need to know
As the 2026 tax filing period approaches, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has released the official deadlines and reminded everyone to file digitally. Even though the filing portal isn’t open yet, scammers are already sending fake emails and texts that look like they come from SARS.
Key deadlines for 2026
- October 23, 2026 – deadline for individual taxpayers
- January 22, 2027 – deadline for provisional taxpayers and trusts
The exact date when you can start filing has not been announced yet, but knowing these dates helps you plan ahead.
Beware of fake SARS messages
Fraudsters are taking advantage of the uncertainty around tax season. They send messages that claim you owe money, demand immediate payment, or threaten legal action. These messages often look official, using SARS‑style logos and urgent language.
How the scams work
Scammers copy the look of real SARS notices and add pressure tactics—like “pay now or face penalties.” They hope the fear of owing money will make you act without checking the source.
Red flags to spot
- Links that lead to unfamiliar websites or end in .htm/.html attachments
- Requests for bank details, credit‑card numbers, or login credentials sent by email or SMS
- Urgent phrasing such as “immediate payment required” or “legal action will be taken today”
- Email addresses or phone numbers that don’t match the official SARS domains
- Poor spelling, odd formatting, or generic greetings like “Dear Taxpayer”
Tips to protect yourself from SARS scams
Do’s and don’ts
- Do not open or reply to messages from unknown senders.
- Do not click on links or download attachments unless you are absolutely sure they are genuine.
- Do not share your banking, tax, or e‑filing information via email or text.
- Do verify any SARS communication by logging into your eFiling account directly or calling the official SARS contact centre.
Verify before you pay
If you receive a notice about a tax debt, follow these steps:
- Ignore any phone numbers or links in the message.
- Go to the official SARS website (www.sars.gov.za) or open your eFiling profile.
- Check your account for any real notices or payment requests.
- If you’re still unsure, call SARS using the number listed on their official site.
Conclusion
Tax season can be stressful, but staying alert keeps you safe from fraud. Remember that SARS will never ask for your bank details through email or text, and they won’t threaten instant legal action without giving you a chance to verify the claim. By checking every message through official channels and watching for the warning signs above, you can protect your money and your personal information while you focus on filing your taxes correctly.
