The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has called on taxpayers to settle outstanding amounts promptly to avoid penalties, interest and delays.

In a statement, Sars said it “encourages all taxpayers who are due to make payments to do so by the earliest available date to avoid unnecessary delays, penalties and interests for late payment.”

The agency noted that early compliance helps reduce the risk of enforcement action and supports the smooth running of the tax system. With September marking the halfway point of the financial year, SARS thanked those who have already met their obligations.

Payments can be made via eFiling, electronic funds transfer (EFT) or at a bank. Sars assured the public these platforms are “robust, secure and user-friendly,” in line with international standards.

Meanwhile, Sars and the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) raised concerns over cybercriminals hijacking eFiling profiles, though they stressed a draft OTO report will only be released on 1 October 2025.

“The OTO takes the hijacking of taxpayer eFiling profiles very seriously,” the Ombud said. Sars confirmed it is strengthening security systems and urged taxpayers to safeguard login details and report suspicious activity promptly.