We all make mistakes sometimes. Maybe you got busy, forgot a date, or just didn’t realize your tax return was due. It happens! But don’t worry — missing a deadline with SARS isn’t the end of the world. You still have time to fix it, avoid bigger problems, and get back on track. Let’s go step by step and make it super easy to understand.
Penalty vs Interest: What SARS Charges and Why
First, let’s talk about what happens when you miss a deadline. SARS (the South African Revenue Service) can charge two things — penalties and interest.
Penalties are like small fines for being late. Think of it as a fee for not submitting your tax return on time. Interest, on the other hand, is extra money added because your payment was late. The longer you wait, the more interest grows — kind of like a snowball rolling downhill.
But here’s some good news! If you act quickly and submit your returns soon, you can reduce both the penalty and interest amounts. The faster you fix it, the better.
How to File Outstanding Returns Without Panic
Take a deep breath — it’s going to be okay. Here’s what to do:
- Log in to your SARS eFiling account.
Check if there are any returns you’ve missed. SARS usually shows you which years or months are still outstanding. - Gather your documents.
You’ll need things like your IRP5, proof of income, and any deduction slips. Having these ready makes the process quick and smooth. - Submit your returns as soon as you can.
Even if it’s late, submitting them now stops penalties from growing larger. Don’t wait another day — every moment counts.
And remember, you don’t need to panic or rush too fast. Just stay calm, follow each step, and double-check your information before you click “submit.”
When to Apply for Remission of Penalties
If you already got a penalty notice from SARS, don’t give up! You can apply for remission, which means asking SARS to reduce or cancel the penalty.
You can do this directly through eFiling. Simply go to your penalty statement and click “Request Remission.” Be honest in your explanation — tell SARS why your return was late. Maybe you were sick, had a family emergency, or didn’t receive a reminder. If your reason is valid, SARS might cancel or lower your penalty.
It’s always worth trying, especially if it was your first mistake.
Seeking Help from Tax Professionals
Sometimes, dealing with taxes can feel confusing — and that’s okay. Tax professionals are there to help you. They can file your outstanding returns, request penalty remissions, and explain everything clearly.
If you feel unsure, reach out to a tax practitioner. They’ll guide you through the process so you don’t make any small mistakes that could cost you later.
Final Thoughts
Missing a tax deadline can feel stressful, but it’s not a disaster. However, what matters most is taking action quickly, staying calm, and fixing things properly. By understanding how penalties work, filing your returns soon, and asking for help when needed, you can easily get back on track — and stay in good standing with SARS.
