Media release – SARS apologises to taxpayers

26 October 2023 – The South African Revenue Service (SARS), strives to always clarify and remind taxpayers of their obligation in law, as well as the potential consequences should they not comply. Notwithstanding the legal mandate of SARS to act against taxpayers who fail to comply, it is generally expected that we first remind, and give the taxpayers the opportunity to comply, ahead of SARS commencing legal action. The SMS message that was sent out earlier this week, in relation to outstanding returns, fell short of the high professional standard we seek to uphold. SARS therefore sincerely apologises for the manner in which this matter was handled, the frustration it may have caused honest taxpayers, and any inconvenience caused.

See full statement here.