The tax season started on 1 July, and on the first day, the South African Revenue Service's (SARS') eFiling Web site struggled to handle the amount of people logging in to file their returns.
SARS acknowledged that it was aware of the eFiling technical difficulties, noting that its technicians and service providers are investigating the network issues.
"Thousands of returns were filed on Monday and the volume may have caught SARS by surprise," says Philip Meyer, technology director of Sage Pastel Payroll & HR. "Traditionally, taxpayers prefer to wait until the last few days of the filing season to get their tax returns done, and this is normally the time we expect the eFiling Web site to start stumbling under the pressure."
While employees still have several months to file their tax returns, Meyer encourages taxpayers to get their tax documentation in order as soon as possible.
"They should start gathering proof of contributions to retirement annuities or private pensions and medical schemes, investment income, dividends and lump sum payments, as the earlier the return can be finalised and submitted, the better. Rather be well prepared and avoid the stress that accompanies the last-minute rush."
SARS is offering taxpayers assistance with their returns through a number of channels to ensure returns are submitted accurately and on time, says Meyer. "The Help-You-eFile service provides taxpayers with access to call centre agents while the taxpayer is online. Agents are able to see what taxpayers are doing and can assist with the completion of the tax return."
According to Meyer, SARS also caters for mobile technology, allowing individuals with mobile devices to file their returns from their smartphones and tablets.
"Taxpayers will also be able to view eFiling videos on YouTube that demonstrate how to register for eFiling, complete and submit the IRT12 tax form, accompanied by supporting documents if these are required," he concludes. "SARS has said e-filers will receive their ITA34 assessment and statement of account within a few minutes of submitting the return."
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