Need to know what’s happening with your tax return? You can easily check your SARS (South African Revenue Service) status using just your cellphone. No need for data, a computer, or a SARS branch visit. Simply send an SMS, and you’ll receive your tax return status in minutes.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on how to check your SARS status by SMS.
Step-by-Step: Check Your SARS Tax Status by SMS
1. Open Your Messaging App
Start by launching the Messages app on your mobile phone. This can be done on any device that can send SMS texts.
2. Compose a New Message
Create a new SMS message.
In the message body, you need to type the following in a specific format:
IDNumberTaxYearStatus
For example:8501011234084*2023*Status
Here’s what each part means:
- IDNumber: Your 13-digit South African ID
- TaxYear: The year you want to check (e.g. 2023)
- Status: This tells SARS that you’re requesting your tax return status
3. Send the SMS to 32700
Once your message is correctly formatted, send it to the SARS SMS short code: 32700
Example message sent:8501011234084*2023*Status
Send to: 32700
Note: Standard SMS rates apply. Make sure you have enough airtime or credit.
4. Wait for a Reply from SARS
After sending the SMS, you should receive a reply within a few minutes. This response will tell you:
- If your tax return has been submitted
- Whether it has been assessed or processed
- If you’re due for a refund, or if any additional action is required
Example Use Case
Let’s say you submitted your 2023 return a few weeks ago and want to confirm its progress. You’d send the following SMS:
8702021234085*2023*Status
→ to 32700
Within moments, SARS will reply with your return status — saving you the hassle of calling or logging in online.
Important Reminders
- Always use your correct ID number and the correct tax year
- Use the 32700 SMS number only — it’s the official code used by SARS
- Make sure your cellphone has airtime (standard network rates apply)
- If you don’t receive a reply, check your message format and try again
- For updates or changes to the SMS service, visit the SARS official website
Summary: How to Check SARS Tax Return by SMS
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Open your SMS app |
| 2 | Type: YourID*TaxYear*Status |
| 3 | Send SMS to 32700 |
| 4 | Receive status update from SARS |
This method is especially helpful for those without access to internet banking, eFiling, or who are on the move. It’s quick, accessible, and works with any mobile phone.