How Long Does SARS Take to Pay Refunds
Your ITA34 Notice of Assessment will show 'Amount refundable' if SARS owes you money. You can also check your eFiling profile under 'Returns History' to see the status of each return.
SARS Refund Timeline
Step 1 - Return submitted: Your ITR12 is submitted via eFiling
Step 2 - Processing: SARS processes the return (2-4 months for standard returns)
Step 3 - Assessment issued: You receive an ITA34 showing your refund amount
Step 4 - Verification (if selected): SARS requests documents (21 business days to submit)
Step 5 - Refund paid: Money appears in your verified bank account
The total time from filing to receiving your refund can range from 2 weeks (for simple, verified returns) to 6+ months (for audited returns).
Why Is My Refund Delayed
Common reasons for delayed refunds include:
- Your return was selected for verification or audit
- Your banking details are not verified on eFiling
- You owe SARS from a previous tax year (they will offset)
- You have outstanding returns from previous years
- Your employer has not submitted their EMP501 reconciliation
- SARS is experiencing high volumes during peak season
You can check your refund status on SARS eFiling under the 'SARS Correspondence' tab.
How to Track Your Refund
1. Log into SARS eFiling
2. Go to 'SARS Correspondence'
3. Look for your ITA34 Notice of Assessment
4. Check if a verification letter was sent
5. If verified, the refund should process within 2-4 weeks
If your refund has been pending for more than 4 months with no correspondence from SARS, contact their call centre or visit a branch.
How to Speed Up Your Refund
- Ensure your banking details are correct and verified on eFiling
- Submit all supporting documents immediately if requested
- File early in tax season (July/August) to avoid the rush
- Make sure all your previous tax returns are filed
- Respond to any SARS queries within the 21-business-day deadline
Admin Boss can follow up on delayed refunds and liaise with SARS on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if SARS owes me a refund?
Your ITA34 Notice of Assessment will show 'Amount refundable' if SARS owes you money. You can also check your eFiling profile under 'Returns History' to see the status of each return.
Can SARS withhold my refund?
Yes. SARS can withhold your refund if you have outstanding tax debt, unfiled returns from previous years, or if your return is under verification or audit. They may also use your refund to offset any amounts you owe them.
What bank account does SARS pay refunds into?
SARS pays refunds into the bank account you have registered and verified on eFiling. Make sure this account is active and in your name. Update your banking details on eFiling if they have changed.
How long does SARS verification take?
SARS verification typically takes 21 business days from the date you submit all requested documents. However, complex cases or incomplete submissions can extend this period significantly.
It has been 6 months and I still have not received my refund. What should I do?
Contact SARS directly via their call centre (0800 00 7277) or visit a SARS branch. Alternatively, a registered tax practitioner like Admin Boss can escalate the matter with SARS on your behalf.
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.