SARS eFiling5 min read

SARS Tax Refund — How Long Does It Take and How to Check?

Submitted your return and waiting for a refund? Here's how long it actually takes, how to check the status, and what to do if it's delayed.

Published 15 July 2025

Standard Refund Timelines

If your return is assessed without issues: within 72 hours of submission, SARS issues the ITA34 assessment. Refunds for eFiling submissions typically reflect in your bank account within 7-21 business days. If you filed at a branch, it may take longer. SARS pays refunds directly into the bank account registered on your eFiling profile — make sure your banking details are up to date.

How to Check Your Refund Status

Log in to SARS eFiling → go to 'Returns' → 'Tax Returns History' → select the relevant year → view your 'Statement of Account'. The assessment (ITA34) shows whether you owe SARS or are due a refund. If the refund is showing but hasn't been paid, check 'Payment' → 'Payment History' for the payout status. You can also call the SARS Contact Centre on 0800 00 7277 (Mon-Fri 8am-5pm).

Common Reasons for Delays

Verification/audit selection — your return is flagged for review. Outstanding returns — SARS won't pay refunds if you have unfiled returns for previous years. Incorrect banking details — update on eFiling immediately. Debt set-off — if you owe SARS for other tax types (VAT, PAYE), the refund is reduced. Employer hasn't submitted your IRP5 — SARS can't verify income data. Provisional tax account in arrears — outstanding IRP6 payments are deducted.

What to Do If Your Refund Is Stuck

Check for SARS correspondence on eFiling — there may be a verification request you missed. File any outstanding returns for previous years. Verify your banking details match eFiling records exactly. If selected for verification, submit requested documents within 21 business days. If nothing works, visit a SARS branch with your ID and proof of banking details, or escalate to the Tax Ombud if SARS isn't responding within 90 days.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the South African Income Tax Act and published SARS Interpretation Notes as at the 2024/2025 tax year. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional tax advice. Tax legislation changes periodically — consult a registered tax practitioner for advice on your specific situation.

SARS eFiling