Miss Monday’s tax deadline? SARS can fine you from R250 up to R16,000 a month
Tax South Africans have until midnight tonight to submit their income tax returns, or face penalties from the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
Image: Freepik
South Africans have until midnight tonight to submit their income tax returns, or face penalties from the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
IOL previously reported that the revenue service has called non-provisional taxpayers to submit their income tax returns by 20 October 2025 or face penalties.
The revenue service said that it "has made every effort to simplify and support the filing process through enhanced digital platforms, Auto Assessment, and accessible helplines".
"The Commissioner urges all taxpayers not to abdicate their tax obligations: failure to submit a return by the deadline is a serious offence, and non-compliance can lead to administrative penalties and interest charges.
"As part of our strategic focus to encourage voluntary compliance and enforce the law, SARS will continue to identify and act against those who do not meet their tax obligations".
The revenue service also revealed that nearly 80% of non-provisional taxpayers have already filed their returns, with over 7.9 million submissions received so far.
The tax season officially began on July 7 2025, with the SARS setting deadlines for different categories of taxpayers.
Tax Consulting South Africa has previously told IOL that failing to file, even when no tax is owed, can lead to administrative penalties of up to R250 to R16,000 per month for each return outstanding.
"Even if no tax is owed, filing your tax return ensures your tax affairs are in order and protects you from retrospective assessments or penalties. In a country where tax compliance is both a legal requirement and a civic duty, many South Africans still believe that if they don’t owe anything, they don’t need to file a tax return".
"Unfortunately, that assumption could have costly financial and legal consequences. Whether due to oversight, uncertainty, or misinformation, failing to submit your annual return — even when you think there’s no tax due — is a risk that can escalate over time.
IOL News
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za