You can check your SARS (South African Revenue Service) tax return status by sending an SMS. To do so, follow these steps:
- Compose an SMS: Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
- Create a New Message: Compose a new SMS.
- Enter the Required Information: In the message body, you will need to enter the following information:
- Your ID number (your South African identity number).
- The tax year you want to inquire about (e.g., “2023” for the 2023 tax year).
- The word “Status.”
The format should look like this:
IDNumber*TaxYear*Status
For example:
1234567890123*2023*Status
- Send the SMS: Once you’ve entered the required information, send the SMS to the SARS shortcode, which is 32700.
- Receive a Response: Shortly after sending the SMS, you should receive a response from SARS indicating the status of your tax return for the specified tax year. This response will inform you whether your return has been assessed, whether there’s a refund, or if any further action is required.
Please note that SMS codes and procedures can change, and it’s essential to verify the most up-to-date information on the SARS website or by contacting SARS directly for the current SMS process to check your tax return status.
Additionally, ensure that you have sufficient airtime or credit on your mobile phone to send the SMS, as standard messaging rates may apply.