17 September 2021 – What is the difference between a verification and an audit? Being selected for an audit and being selected for verification are two different processes.
What is Verification? Verification is a face-value verification of the information declared by the taxpayer on the declaration or in a return. We will notify you that the return or declaration is subject to verification. SARS will conclude the verification within 21 business days from the date all required relevant material is received, if your return is for the current filing period.
What is an Audit? An audit is an examination of the financial and accounting records and/or the supporting documents of the taxpayer to determine whether the taxpayer has correctly declared his/her tax position to SARS. A notification of the audit will be issued as well as a notification where additional material is required. Progress reports of the stage of the audit will be issued at intervals of 90 calendar days from the date of the Notification of Audit.
For more information, see our Being Audited or Selected for Verification webpage.
