First Time Tax Filer Checklist
First Time Tax Filer Checklist
SARS requires you to keep all tax-related documents for at least 5 years from the date of assessment.
Getting Started
Register for a tax number at a SARS branch with your ID. Register for SARS eFiling online. Verify your banking details on your profile.
Documents to Gather
Gather your IRP5 from your employer, medical aid certificate, bank interest statements, and proof of any deductions. If you have no tax number yet, visit SARS first.
Filing Your Return
Log into eFiling, start your ITR12, work through each section carefully, verify pre-populated data, and submit. Keep your acknowledgement number.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long must I keep these documents?
SARS requires you to keep all tax-related documents for at least 5 years from the date of assessment.
Can Admin Boss help me prepare?
Yes. Admin Boss is a registered tax practice that can help organise your documents and ensure nothing is missed. Visit adminboss.co.za/need-more-info/.
What happens if I miss a document?
Contact the issuer and request a duplicate. For bank statements, download from online banking. Missing documents may result in denied deductions.
Need Help With Your Tax?
Admin Boss is a registered tax practice with over 20 years of experience helping South African individuals and businesses navigate SARS.
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Related Tax Guides
Official Resources
Related Services From Our Group
Important: this is not a free service. TaxSeason2026.online is the website of Admin Boss – Tax division, a private South African tax practice that assists individuals with the preparation and filing of their SARS tax returns for a professional fee. We are not SARS and we are not affiliated with SARS or any government body. SARS eFiling itself is a free government channel – our fee covers expert review, deduction optimisation and done-for-you filing.
