Being a South African expat comes with its own set of unique challenges while you’re settling into your new life abroad, especially when it comes to managing your tax obligations back home and trying to handle your SARS-related queries from a different time zone and country can damper your fresh start overseas. But, the good news is – it doesn’t have to be as bad as it sounds. If you know what to expect. Here’s the lowdown on what you need to know about contacting SARS from overseas when you have SARS-related queries.
The importance of staying in touch with SARS
Maintaining a healthy relationship with SARS is a smart move for South African citizens, regardless of current location. Whether you need to update your details, submit returns, or clarify a point, knowing where your first port of call is is essential. When connecting with the revenue authority, there are several channels on which SARS can be reached.
Read more: Your SARS Tax Compliance Status – what expats need to know.
Direct phone calls – the first point of contact for SARS-related queries
One of the most straightforward ways to contact SARS is by telephone. Yes, it’s old-school, but it works.
What is the contact number for SARS?
For international callers with SARS-related queries, the SARS contact centre can be reached at +27 11 602 2093. However, it’s important to remember that all SARS services, including calling the Contact Centre, eBooking appointments, call-back requests, and HYEF call-back requests and assistance, operate on South African Standard Time (SAST).
The call centre hours are weekdays from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM SAST. Considering the time zone differences between your location and South Africa, you’ll need to plan your call carefully. For instance, if you’re in the United States, you must calculate the time difference to ensure you’re calling within the operational hours.
The SARS call centre number is 0800 00 7277 for those residing within South Africa. Whether you’re calling internationally or locally, always consider the operational hours to ensure you receive prompt assistance on SARS-related queries.
Next point of contact – SARS digital online platforms
As part of the revenue authority’s pursuit of making voluntary compliance as easy as possible for taxpayers, SARS operates entirely within today’s digital age and offers various connection services to suit different communication preferences. There’s something for everyone.
SARS eFiling online and the SARS App: your digital tax tools
For South African expats managing their tax obligations from abroad, SARS offers convenient digital platforms to streamline the process. SARS eFiling online provides a comprehensive web-based portal for managing your tax affairs, allowing you to file returns, view statements, and handle various administrative tasks from any internet-connected device.
In addition to the online portal, the SARS MobiApp provides valuable mobile access tools. This application extends key functionalities of SARS eFiling to your smartphone or tablet, enabling you to file returns, view your tax status, and access various SARS services. For SARS MobiApp download information, you can visit the official SARS website or your device’s app store.
It’s important to remember that using SARS eFiling online and the SARS MobiApp is a great way to handle many basic SARS related queries from the comfort of your home, no matter where you are. This digital accessibility significantly simplifies tax management for expats, reducing the need for direct contact with SARS for routine tasks.
Sending SARS a WhatsApp message – next-level convenience
SARS has jumped on the WhatsApp bandwagon, and you can easily text them your SARS-related queries now.
If you wish to communicate with SARS through WhatsApp, first store the SARS WhatsApp number, 0800 11 7277, in your contacts, then start a chat. This provides a convenient way to get quick answers and assistance.
Dialling into SARS via USSD code – quick and simple
For a straightforward way to access select SARS services, try the SARS USSD number option. By dialling *134*7277#, you can retrieve basic tax information and perform specific tasks directly from your phone without an internet connection.
This method offers a streamlined approach to accessing essential SARS functions. The SARS USSD code service has recently expanded to include tools like the Two-Pot tax calculator and Personal Income Tax (PIT) registration.
What you need to know for obtaining tax numbers and documentation
Obtaining and verifying your tax number: If you need a new one, you can explore the SARS tax number online application process. Remember, keeping proof of your tax number is very important once you have it.
Read more: Obtaining a SARS tax identification number is a straightforward process. Let us guide you.
Making appointments with SARS: in-person or online.
If you require in-person assistance, SARS allows you to make appointments. While less common for expats, video chat appointments are available when necessary. Check the SARS website for the latest procedures on scheduling appointments.
Escalating issues: when you need further assistance with your SARS-related queries
Sometimes, standard communication channels may not resolve your issue. In such cases, it’s essential to know how to escalate matters. The SARS website provides information on complaint processing and escalation procedures.
FinGlobal: simplify your SARS interactions
Feeling overwhelmed by SARS? FinGlobal provides expert assistance for complex tax situations and SARS-related queries. We handle SARS on your behalf, offering convenient services for expats:
- Tax compliance and registration: Reactivating/updating records, registration/deregistration, tax emigration, and deregistration.
- Returns and refunds: Submitting tax returns (residents, non-residents, expats, foreign nationals), applying for/processing tax refunds, and claiming disallowed retirement contributions.
- Specialised tax services: Obtaining tax directives, handling tax emigration, capital gains tax calculations, and dispute resolution.
- General tax support: Handling general tax inquiries.
To find out more about our trusted services, which will streamline your entire SARS-related queries experience, please leave your contact details below, and we’ll be in touch soon.