African businessman Learning How to Register for a New Income Tax Number with SARS in Under Five Minutes
African businessman Learning How to Register for a New Income Tax Number with SARS in Under Five Minutes

How to Register for a New Income Tax Number with SARS in Under Five Minutes

If you’re a South African citizen or resident and need to register for a new income tax number, it can be done quickly and easily. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to register for a brand new income tax number in under five minutes.

Step-by-step guide on how to register for a new income tax number with SARS

Step 1: Go to the SARS eFiling website

To start the registration process, go to the SARS eFiling website at start.sars.gov.za.

Step 2: Click on the “Register” button

Once on the SARS eFiling website, click on the “Register” button. You’ll then be asked to provide your personal details, including your name, surname, and South African ID number.

Click on the "Register" button | How to register for a new income tax number with SARS
Click on the “Register” button | How to register for a new income tax number with SARS

Step 3: Provide your contact details

After filling out your personal details, you’ll need to provide your contact details, including your phone number and email address.

Step 4: Submit your application

Once you’ve completed the required fields, hit the “Submit” button to finalize your application.

Step 5: Upload supporting documents

To complete the registration process, you’ll need to upload certain supporting documents. These include proof of identity (a copy of your ID), proof of residential address (a utility bill or rental agreement), and a bank statement that’s no more than three months old. You’ll also need to provide a photo of yourself holding your proof of identity document.

Step 6: Wait for verification

After submitting your supporting documents, your application will go through a verification process. This can take up to 21 days, but in some cases, it may be faster. Once your application has been verified, you’ll receive your tax reference number.

How to Access Your Tax Reference Number

While the verification process is underway, you can still access your tax reference number by following these steps:

Step 1: Check your email

After submitting your application, you should receive an email requesting supporting documents.

Male employer checking emails on modern laptop at work to access Tax Reference Number
Male employer checking emails on modern laptop at work to access Tax Reference Number

Step 2: Find your tax reference number

In the email requesting supporting documents, your tax reference number will be included at the top of the email on the right-hand side.

Registering for a new income tax number in South Africa doesn’t have to be a time-consuming process. By following these steps, you can register for a new income tax number in under five minutes. Remember to upload your supporting documents to complete the verification process and to check your email for your tax reference number if you need it before the verification process is complete.

How to Get Your Tax Number in Under Two Minutes

Getting a tax number is a crucial step for anyone who needs to pay taxes or submit tax returns in South Africa. In this video, Heinrich Rubio, the owner of SA County Network, shares a quick and easy way to obtain your tax number in under two minutes.

Step 1: Go to the SARS Website

The first step is to go to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) website. On the website, you’ll find a button that says “What is my tax number?” Click on that button, and it will open up a work page that looks like this.

Step 2: Fill in Your Details

The next step is to fill in your details. Make sure that you select the “Email” option, as it will give you the option to receive your tax number via email or SMS. Then, fill in all the required fields, such as your initials, name, surname, email address, mobile number, and ID number.

Step 3: Submit Your Query

Once you’ve filled in all your details, hit the “Submit” button. You will then be asked to complete a verification process to ensure that you are not a robot. Once you’ve completed the verification process, hit the “Validate” button.

Step 4: Wait for Your Tax Number

After you hit the “Validate” button, you will see a message that says, “Thank you for your query. Your tax reference number will be sent by email shortly.” You will then receive an email from the South African Revenue Service containing your tax number.

Obtaining your tax number is a crucial step in paying taxes and submitting tax returns in South Africa. With the simple steps outlined above, you can get your tax number in under two minutes. Remember, this process only works if you already have a tax number. If you don’t have a tax number yet or if you’re not registered with SARS, you’ll need to follow a different process. If you need help with taxes or accounting, contact a tax consultant or accountant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of having an income tax number?

The income tax number is used by the government to track and identify individuals who are liable to pay income tax.

Why is it important to register for an income tax number?

It is important to register for an income tax number because failure to do so can result in penalties and legal consequences.

Can I register for a new income tax number online?

Yes, it is possible to register for an income tax number online through the SARS eFiling website.

Shot of a young businesswoman holding a note with tax written on it in an office | Can I register for a new income tax number online?
Shot of a young businesswoman holding a note with tax written on it in an office | Can I register for a new income tax number online?

How long does it take to register for an income tax number?

The registration process can be completed in under five minutes, but it may take up to 21 days for the verification process to be completed.

What documents do I need to upload to complete the registration process?

You will need to upload documents such as proof of identity, proof of residential address, bank statements, and a photo of yourself holding the proof of identity.

What happens after I register for an income tax number?

After registering, you will need to wait for the verification process to be completed before you can access your income tax number and file taxes.

What are the consequences of not registering for an income tax number?

Failing to register for an income tax number can result in penalties, legal consequences, and difficulties in accessing certain services or benefits.

Can I change my personal information after registering for an income tax number?

Yes, you can change your personal information by logging into your SARS eFiling account and updating your details.

Do I need to register for a new income tax number if I change jobs?

No, your income tax number remains the same regardless of where you work. However, you will need to update your employment information with SARS.

Can I register for an income tax number if I am not a South African citizen?

Yes, non-South African citizens can register for an income tax number if they are earning income in South Africa.

How to Register for a New Income Tax Number with SARS in Under Five Minutes
How to Register for a New Income Tax Number with SARS in Under Five Minutes

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If you have more questions, look through our blog for answers!