How to Register, Reset or Fix Your SARS eFiling Profile
Your SARS eFiling profile is your digital gateway to managing your tax affairs in South Africa. Whether you’re submitting a tax return, checking a refund, applying for a tax clearance certificate, or uploading documents for verification, everything happens through eFiling.
But what if you’re registering for the first time, have lost your login details, or find your profile locked?
This guide walks you step-by-step through how to register, reset, or fix your SARS eFiling profile — and how to resolve common issues quickly.
What Is SARS eFiling?
SARS eFiling is South Africa’s secure online portal that allows individuals, businesses, and tax practitioners to manage their tax matters electronically. Through eFiling, you can:
- Submit income tax returns (ITR12)
- Pay VAT, PAYE, and provisional tax
- Dispute assessments via NOO (Notice of Objection) or NOA (Notice of Appeal)
- Apply for tax clearance and foreign investment allowance
- Upload supporting documents requested by SARS
Important:
Since 2024, SARS requires most taxpayers to use eFiling — manual paper submissions are largely being phased out unless specifically exempt.
How to Register for SARS eFiling (First-Time Users)
If you’re registering for SARS eFiling for the first time, here’s what to do:
Step 1: Visit the SARS eFiling Website
Go to www.sarsefiling.co.za and click on “Register” (top right corner).
Step 2: Choose the Correct User Type
Select whether you are registering as:
- Individual (most salaried taxpayers)
- Tax Practitioner
- Organisation
Step 3: Complete Your Personal Details
You’ll need to provide:
- South African ID number
- Full name and surname
- Current email address and mobile number
- Banking details (for refunds)
- Physical and postal address
✅ Tip: Ensure your details match what SARS already has from your employer, bank, or medical aid provider.
Step 4: Validate Your Information
SARS will cross-check your details. If validated, you will receive a One-Time-PIN (OTP) via email or SMS to verify your registration.
Step 5: Create Your Login Credentials
Once verified, you can set your username and password. Choose a strong, secure password for future access.
How to Reset or Fix Your SARS eFiling Profile
If you’re already registered but cannot access your profile, here’s how to recover or fix it:
1. Forgot Username or Password?
- Click “Forgot Username” or “Forgot Password” on the eFiling login page.
- Enter your ID number and the registered email or mobile number linked to your account.
- Follow the prompts to reset.
✅ Important:
If your phone number or email has changed and you can’t receive the OTP, you will need to call SARS or visit a branch with your ID for manual verification.
2. Locked SARS Profile?
Multiple failed login attempts can lock your profile. To unlock it:
- Wait one hour and try again, or
- Call SARS Contact Centre at 0800 00 7277 and verify your identity, or
- Visit your nearest SARS branch with your ID.
3. Duplicate or Conflicting Profiles?
This can happen if:
- A previous tax practitioner created a profile on your behalf.
- You were registered multiple times with the same ID.
✅ To resolve:
- Call SARS and request Access Management Assistance, or
- Submit a case online via the SARS Online Query System (SOQS).
SARS may merge profiles or transfer control to your current eFiling account.
Documents Needed to Register, Reset, or Update Your Profile
To ensure a smooth process, have the following documents ready:
- Certified copy of your South African ID (if visiting a branch)
- Recent proof of address (not older than 3 months)
- Recent bank statement (not older than 3 months)
- Your SARS tax reference number
- Updated and accessible email and mobile number
SARS eFiling vs SARS MobiApp
Prefer handling taxes via your smartphone? The SARS MobiApp offers a convenient alternative:
- View and submit tax returns
- Upload supporting documents
- Request tax clearance certificates
- Chat with the SARS virtual assistant
Available for iOS and Android, the MobiApp is particularly useful if your desktop eFiling profile is inaccessible or if you prefer mobile filing.
When to Use a Tax Practitioner for SARS eFiling Problems
While many eFiling issues are minor (forgotten password, locked profile), you should consider using a tax professional if:
- Your tax types are incorrectly linked (e.g., VAT or PAYE showing incorrectly).
- A previous employer or tax practitioner created your profile and access is complicated.
- You must urgently dispute SARS assessments or upload important supporting documents.
- You need assistance merging duplicate profiles or recovering lost access to your tax types.
✅ At Sparrows Chartered Accountants, we help clients register, recover, fix, and maintain their SARS eFiling profiles efficiently and securely — saving you time, hassle, and potential penalties.
Need Help Registering or Fixing Your SARS eFiling Profile?
Whether you’re registering for the first time, recovering lost access, or resolving profile conflicts, expert help is just a click away.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and reflects the legislation and SARS practices in effect at the time of publishing. Tax laws are subject to change, and individual circumstances vary. Always consult a registered tax practitioner or financial advisor for advice tailored to your situation.
