
September 2025 Issue

- Skip the Queues. Update your Security Details Online on SARS eFiling
- Trust Filing Season 2025 Opens 20 September 2025
Skip the queues update your security details online on SARS eFiling
Struggling to Get Your One-Time-Pin (OTP)?
You can update your Security Contact Details directly on the eFiling on the SARS website without visiting a branch or calling the call centre. SARS uses facial biometric authentication to verify your identity and securely update your profile. This is part of SARS’s commitment to modernising services and making tax compliance easier for everyone.
How Does It Work?
- Visit the SARS website and navigate to the eFiling log-in link.
- Select “Update Contact Details”.
- Use your device’s camera for biometric verification when prompted.
- Follow the instructions to capture your face:
- Keep your camera at eye level, held upright, and not tilted.
- Use a clear background with good lighting.
- Remove headgear and glasses.
- Keep your head fully visible.
- Avoid shaking or moving your device during the process.
How to Capture Your Face Correctly?
- Confirm you have turned up your device’s brightness by checking the box provided.
- Allow camera access when prompted by your browser or device.
- Adjust your position so that your face fits within the on-screen frame.
- Follow all other guidance shown on the screen until the process is complete. You will be asked to perform a specific action such as smiling for the camera.
Once the picture has been successfully captured, you will be notified of the authentication results. You will be asked to enter your security contact details and choose your preferred communication channel, either email or cell phone.
Finally, you will receive an OTP on your chosen communication method, allowing you to continue with transactions on your eFiling profile. Do not wait until the last minute to file your returns!
For more information, go to: Maintain personal details on eFiling vs Branch.
Latest Scam Alert:
Beware of fraud! Don’t fall for imposters pretending to be SARS sending notifications about Administrative penalty charges. Always verify the authenticity of such messages on the Scams & Phishing webpage.
Trust Filing Season 2025 opens 20 September 2025
Important Dates for Trust Tax Filing
The trust filing season is open from 20 September 2025 to 19 January 2026, for both provisional and non-provisional taxpayers. Trustees and administrators should take note that all required documents and submissions must be completed by the deadline.
Required Documents | Details |
Trust instrument | Latest deed or will |
Certain transactions and financial flows | Income sources and distribution of income; proof of any tax credits |
Financial information | Financial Statements/Annual Administration Accounts |
Parties connected to a trust | Beneficial-ownership document, including detail per entity listed |
Other documents | Letters of Authority and Minutes and Resolutions of trustee meetings |
Foreign trust document (if applicable) | Controlled Foreign Company (IT10) |
Mining document (if applicable) | Mining Schedule A and B |
File on Time
Submitting by the deadline is necessary to comply with SARS regulations. Late submissions can lead to administrative penalties, interest charges, and additional procedural steps. SARS’s eFiling is available to help you file and gives prompt confirmation of receipt.
Mark your calendar for 20 September 2025, stay organised, and submit your return along with all required supporting documents by 19 January 2026 to avoid penalties and interest.
Individual Taxpayers: Did You Receive Income from a Trust?
- If you received a vested amount from a trust, declare it now.
- Non-provisional taxpayers: file by 20 October 2025
- Provisional taxpayers: file by 19 January 2026
The deadline is fast approaching. Act today to avoid penalties!
If you need help, use our user-friendly online service channels by visiting the Filing Season page on the SARS website and SARS TV on YouTube for how-to videos.
#YourTaxMatters, so does your time.