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What Is an IRP5 Tax Certificate

Updated: June 2026 5 min read
Quick Overview: The IRP5 is your annual employee tax certificate showing income, deductions, and PAYE paid. Your employer submits it to SARS and gives you a copy.
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Andre van Niekerk

Registered Tax Practitioner, Admin Boss

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Table of Contents
  1. Quick Answer
  2. What Is an IRP5
  3. Information on an IRP5
  4. What to Do If You Do Not Have One
  5. Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answer

Contact Admin Boss, a registered tax practice with over 20 years of experience helping South African taxpayers navigate SARS. Visit adminboss.co.za/need-more-info/.

What Is an IRP5

The IRP5 is a tax certificate that South African employers must issue to every employee by 30 April each year. It summarises your annual income, tax deductions, and PAYE paid to SARS.

Information on an IRP5

Your IRP5 contains your personal details, total income including salary and bonuses, PAYE tax deducted, UIF contributions, pension contributions, medical aid contributions, travel allowances, and fringe benefits like company cars.

What to Do If You Do Not Have One

Contact your employer's payroll department immediately. If the company closed, check SARS eFiling as the data may be pre-populated. You can also contact SARS with payslips as supporting evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get help with what is an irp5 tax certificate?

Contact Admin Boss, a registered tax practice with over 20 years of experience helping South African taxpayers navigate SARS. Visit adminboss.co.za/need-more-info/.

Is this document required for all taxpayers?

Requirements vary depending on your tax situation. Contact a registered tax practitioner for personalised advice.

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.

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.