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What Is a SARS Tax Directive

Updated: June 2026 5 min read
Quick Overview: A tax directive is an instruction from SARS to deduct tax at a specific rate for lump sums, severance, and special situations.
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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 a Tax Directive
  3. When Is It Needed
  4. How to Apply
  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 a Tax Directive

A tax directive is an official instruction from SARS specifying the tax rate or amount to be deducted from certain payments like lump sums or severance benefits.

When Is It Needed

Tax directives are needed for lump sum pension withdrawals, severance benefits, retirement annuity withdrawals due to emigration, and special employment tax rates.

How to Apply

Your employer or fund administrator applies to SARS on your behalf via eFiling. SARS calculates the correct rate and issues the directive within 3 to 21 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get help with what is a sars tax directive?

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.