SARS said the filing periods have been structured to support its auto-assessment system, which uses third-party information from employers, banks, medical schemes and other institutions to pre-populate taxpayer data and reduce the need for manual submissions.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has confirmed the filing dates for the 2026 tax season, with auto assessments set to begin on 1 July and standard tax return submissions opening on 13 July.
SARS said the filing periods have been structured to support its auto-assessment system, which uses third-party information from employers, banks, medical schemes and other institutions to pre-populate taxpayer data and reduce the need for manual submissions.
Auto assessments will run from 1 July to 12 July 2026. Non-provisional taxpayers will have from 13 July to 23 October 2026 to submit their returns.
Provisional taxpayers and trusts will have an extended filing period from 13 July 2026 until 22 January 2027.
