eFiling tax number

An eFiling tax number is a special identification number that is given to people and corporations for tax-related purposes by a tax authority (like the IRS in the United States or SARS in South Africa). With this number, taxpayers can use an electronic filing (eFiling) system to file their forms online, which speeds up, simplifies, and frequently improves the accuracy of tax submission.

How to Obtain Your Tax Number

If you’re new to the tax system or unsure whether you’re registered, follow these steps to acquire your tax number:

  1. Check Existing Registration: Before initiating a new registration, determine if SARS has already assigned you a tax number. You can inquire through the SARS Online Query System or contact the SARS Contact Centre at 0800 00 7277.​South African Revenue Service+3South African Revenue Service+3South African Government+3
  2. Register for Income Tax: If you’re not yet registered, you can do so via the SARS Online Query System by completing the necessary registration form. Ensure you have your South African ID, proof of address, and banking details on hand.​
  3. Automatic Registration: Since July 2022, SARS may automatically register individuals for income tax based on third-party information. If this applies to you, you’ll receive an SMS and a letter from SARS with your tax number and further instructions.​South African Revenue Service+1South African Government+1

Registering on SARS eFiling

Once you have your tax number, follow these steps to register on SARS eFiling:

  1. Visit the SARS eFiling Website: Navigate to www.sarsefiling.co.za.​South African Government+1SARS eFiling+1
  2. Select ‘Register’: Choose the appropriate user type—individual, organization, or tax practitioner.​
  3. Provide Personal Details: Enter your tax reference number, ID number, and other required information.​Reddit+2South African Revenue Service+2South African Revenue Service+2
  4. Create Login Credentials: Set up a username and password for future access.​
  5. Activate Your Profile: Follow the prompts to verify your email and activate your eFiling account.​

For a visual guide, consider watching this tutorial on registering for SARS eFiling:​Reddit+8YouTube+8TaxTim+8

Retrieving a Forgotten Tax Number

If you’ve misplaced your tax number, there are several methods to retrieve it:

  • SARS Online Query System: Submit a query ensuring your details match SARS records.​South African Revenue Service+1South African Revenue Service+1
  • SARS WhatsApp Channel: Save the number 0800 11 7277 to your contacts and send a message to initiate the process.​South African Government+3South African Revenue Service+3South African Revenue Service+3
  • SMS Service: Send an SMS to 47277 with the message: TRN [Your ID Number].​South African Revenue Service+2South African Revenue Service+2Reddit+2
  • USSD Service: Dial 1347277# and follow the prompts to retrieve your tax number.​JustAnswer+3South African Revenue Service+3South African Revenue Service+3

Detailed instructions for these methods are available on the SARS website. ​South African Revenue Service

Benefits of Using SARS eFiling

Leveraging the eFiling system offers numerous advantages:​

  • Convenience: Submit tax returns and make payments online, eliminating the need for physical visits to SARS branches.​SARS eFiling+5TaxTim+5South African Government+5
  • Efficiency: The system streamlines tax processes, reducing paperwork and processing times.​
  • Accuracy: Built-in checks and validations help minimize errors in tax submissions.​

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