How to Track Your SARS Refund

After filing your tax return and receiving an assessment showing a refund due, tracking your refund status helps you know when to expect payment and identify any issues early. This comprehensive guide covers all methods to track your SARS refund and understand what different statuses mean.

Why Track Your Refund?

Benefits of Tracking

Stay Informed:

• Know when refund is processing
• Identify delays early
• Address issues promptly
• Plan finances accordingly

Early Problem Detection:

• Identify incorrect banking details
• Spot processing issues
• Address verification requests
• Resolve delays quickly

Methods to Track Your Refund

Method 1: SARS eFiling (Recommended)

Step-by-Step:

1. Log In to eFiling

   • Visit www.sarsefiling.co.za
   • Enter username and password
   • Complete security verification

2. Navigate to Refund Status

   • Click on "Returns" in main menu
   • Select "Income Tax"
   • Choose "Refund Status" or "Statement of Account"
   • View current refund information

3. View Refund Details

   • Refund amount
   • Processing status
   • Expected payment date
   • Any issues or delays
   • Banking details used

Information Available:

• Current refund status
• Processing timeline
• Payment date (if available)
• Banking details
• Historical refund information

Method 2: SARS MobiApp

Mobile Tracking:

1. Download and Open App

   • Download SARS MobiApp from app store
   • Open app on your device
   • Log in with eFiling credentials

2. Access Refund Status

   • Navigate to "Refunds" section
   • View current refund status
   • Check processing information
   • Enable push notifications

Features:

• Real-time status updates
• Push notifications
• Easy mobile access
• Same information as eFiling

Method 3: SARS Call Centre

Phone Tracking:

1. Call SARS

   • Dial 0800 00 7277 (toll-free)
   • Follow voice prompts
   • Request to speak to agent

2. Provide Information

   • Your ID number
   • Tax reference number
   • Return submission date
   • Assessment number (if available)

3. Get Status Update

   • Agent provides refund status
   • Explains any delays
   • Provides next steps if needed

Best Times to Call:

• Early morning (less busy)
• Mid-week (avoid Mondays)
• Outside peak tax season
• Have all information ready

Method 4: SARS Branch Visit

In-Person Tracking:

1. Book Appointment

   • Book via eFiling or call centre
   • Choose convenient branch
   • Select suitable time

2. Bring Required Documents

   • Valid ID document
   • Tax reference number
   • Assessment notice (if available)
   • Any relevant correspondence

3. Get Assistance

   • Agent checks refund status
   • Explains current position
   • Helps resolve any issues
   • Updates information if needed

Understanding Refund Statuses

Common Status Messages

"Assessment in Progress"

• Return being reviewed
• Not yet assessed
• Normal processing stage
• Wait for assessment

"Refund Approved"

• Assessment complete
• Refund approved
• Processing for payment
• Should receive soon

"Refund Processing"

• Refund being processed
• Payment being prepared
• Usually 7-21 business days
• Check banking details

"Refund Paid"

• Refund has been paid
• Check your bank account
• Should reflect within 1-3 days
• Contact bank if not received

"Refund On Hold"

• Processing delayed
• May need additional information
• Check for SARS requests
• Respond promptly

"Refund Offset"

• Refund offset against debt
• Outstanding SARS amount
• Net amount calculated
• May still receive partial refund

What Each Status Means

Processing Times:

• Assessment: 7-21 business days typically
• Refund processing: 7-21 business days
• Payment: 1-3 business days to bank
• Total: 14-42 business days typically

Delays:

• Peak season: Longer processing
• Additional verification: Delays
• Incorrect information: Delays
• Banking issues: Delays

Troubleshooting Refund Issues

Refund Not Showing

Possible Causes:

• Return not yet assessed
• Assessment not yet complete
• System update delay
• Technical issues

Solutions:

• Wait a few days and check again
• Verify return was submitted
• Check assessment status
• Contact SARS if persists

Refund Status Not Updating

Possible Causes:

• System delays
• Processing backlog
• Peak season delays
• Technical issues

Solutions:

• Check again later
• Try different method (app vs. website)
• Contact SARS for update
• Be patient during peak season

Incorrect Refund Amount

Possible Causes:

• Assessment error
• Outstanding debts offset
• Additional tax calculated
• Deductions disallowed

Solutions:

• Review assessment notice
• Understand calculations
• Query assessment if incorrect
• Accept if calculation is correct

Refund Timeline Expectations

Normal Processing

Typical Timeline:

• Return submission to assessment: 7-21 days
• Assessment to refund processing: Immediate
• Refund processing to payment: 7-21 days
• Payment to bank account: 1-3 days
• Total: 14-42 business days

Factors Affecting Timeline

Faster Processing:

• eFiling submission
• Accurate, complete return
• Simple tax situation
• No additional verification needed
• Off-peak season

Slower Processing:

• Manual filing
• Incomplete information
• Complex tax situation
• Additional verification needed
• Peak tax season (July-October)

Banking Details Verification

Ensuring Correct Details

Check Banking Details:

• Log in to eFiling
• Navigate to "Profile"
• Select "Banking Details"
• Verify all information

Requirements:

• Account in your name
• Correct account number
• Correct branch code
• Active account
• Verified by SARS

Update if Needed:

• Update on eFiling immediately
• Verify changes are saved
• May delay refund slightly
• Better than payment failure

What to Do While Waiting

Regular Monitoring

Check Status:

• Log in to eFiling weekly
• Check refund status
• Monitor for updates
• Watch for SARS requests

Stay Informed:

• Read any SARS communications
• Respond to requests promptly
• Keep records of all interactions
• Note important dates

Preparation

While Waiting:

• Verify banking details
• Gather any requested documents
• Understand refund amount
• Plan for receipt

Refund Not Received

If Refund Is Delayed

Steps to Take:

1. Check Status

   • Log in to eFiling
   • Verify refund status
   • Check for any issues
   • Review assessment

2. Verify Banking Details

   • Ensure details are correct
   • Account is active
   • Account is in your name
   • Update if needed

3. Contact SARS

   • Call 0800 00 7277
   • Explain situation
   • Provide reference numbers
   • Request investigation

4. Follow Up

   • Keep records of contact
   • Note reference numbers
   • Follow up if no response
   • Escalate if necessary

Common Delay Reasons

Verification Needed:

• Additional information required
• SARS reviewing return
• Third-party verification
• Respond promptly

Banking Issues:

• Incorrect banking details
• Account closed or inactive
• Bank processing delays
• Update details and re-request

System Issues:

• Technical problems
• System maintenance
• Peak season backlog
• Usually resolves automatically

Refund Status Notifications

Email Notifications

What You'll Receive:

• Assessment notice
• Refund approval notification
• Payment confirmation
• Important updates

Check:

• Regular email inbox
• Spam/junk folder
• Ensure email is current
• Update if changed

SMS Notifications

If Registered:

• Refund status updates
• Payment confirmations
• Important alerts
• Keep mobile number current

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I check my refund status?

Check weekly or bi-weekly. More frequent checking won't speed up processing, but helps you stay informed and catch issues early.

What if my refund status doesn't change?

Status may not update daily. If it hasn't changed in several weeks, contact SARS to verify processing is continuing.

Can I speed up my refund?

Ensure your return is accurate and complete, verify banking details are correct, and respond promptly to any SARS requests. Beyond that, processing time is largely determined by SARS.

What does "refund on hold" mean?

Your refund is temporarily delayed, often because SARS needs additional information or verification. Check for any requests from SARS and respond promptly.

How long after "refund paid" will I receive it?

Usually 1-3 business days for the funds to reflect in your bank account. If it takes longer, contact your bank first, then SARS.

Can I track refunds from previous years?

Yes, you can view historical refund information on eFiling under your returns history and statements of account.

Conclusion

Tracking your SARS refund is straightforward using eFiling, the MobiApp, call centre, or branch visits. Understanding different statuses and expected timelines helps you know what to expect and when to take action. Regular monitoring, keeping banking details updated, and responding promptly to any SARS requests ensures the smoothest refund experience.

Remember that processing times vary, especially during peak tax season, so patience is important. For the most current status, always use official SARS channels.

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Related Articles:

• SARS Refund Process Explained
• Why Your SARS Refund Is Delayed
• How to Submit Your Tax Return (2026 Guide)

Official Resources:

• SARS eFiling
• SARS Website
• SARS Call Centre