Wondering whether you owe SARS money or are due for a refund? You can easily check your tax balance through the official SARS eFiling platform. Whether you’re an individual taxpayer or a small business owner, keeping track of your tax status is essential to avoid unexpected penalties or interest.
Here’s how to view your SARS tax balance step by step.
Step 1: Visit the SARS Website
Start by going to the official South African Revenue Service website at www.sars.gov.za. This is the only trusted source for accessing your tax information securely online.
Step 2: Log Into Your eFiling Profile
Look for the “eFiling” or “Login” button on the homepage and click it to reach the SARS eFiling portal.
- If you’re already registered, enter your username and password to log in.
- If you haven’t registered yet, you’ll need to create an account. You’ll be asked to provide your South African ID, personal contact details, and possibly tax reference number.
Registering is free and gives you full access to your SARS profile, including tax balances, assessments, and past submissions.
Step 3: Navigate to Your Tax Dashboard
Once logged in, go to the “Returns” or “Tax Types” tab on your dashboard. Under “Income Tax” or a similar section, you’ll see options related to your personal or business tax details.
Step 4: View Your Tax Balance or Statement
Look for an option labeled something like:
- “Statement of Account”
- “Tax Compliance Status”
- “Account Summary”
- “Outstanding Balances”
Here, you’ll be able to see:
- If you owe SARS any money
- Any refunds that are due to you
- A history of your assessments and payments
You can also download a full statement if needed for your records or for submitting to a financial institution.
Step 5: Check for Additional Transactions or Queries
It’s a good idea to scroll through your recent tax transactions to see:
- When payments were made
- Any penalties or interest applied
- SARS assessments for each tax season
Understanding these details can help you budget better and make sure your account is always up to date.
What If Something Looks Wrong?
If your balance doesn’t look right or you’re unsure about a recent deduction or penalty, you can:
- Use the “Query” option within eFiling to contact SARS
- Phone the SARS Contact Centre at 0800 00 7277
- Visit a SARS branch (booking an appointment online is required)
SARS agents can give you clarity about your tax account or help correct any discrepancies.
Also read: How do I claim a tax refund from SARS?
Final Tips
- Make sure your eFiling details, especially your contact number and banking info, are always up to date.
- Check your SARS profile regularly—especially after tax season or big changes in income.
- Consider downloading the SARS MobiApp if you want quicker mobile access to your tax balance.
In summary, checking your SARS tax balance online is quick and free via eFiling. It helps you stay in control of your tax obligations, spot refunds early, and avoid surprises at the end of the financial year.