The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has successfully completed its 2025 Auto Assessment period, using artificial intelligence to evaluate 5.8 million taxpayers—up from 5 million in 2024.

Of those auto-assessed, 99.6% accepted the results unchanged, reflecting strong system accuracy. SARS disbursed R10.6 billion in refunds within 72 hours.

The AI-driven process relies on third-party data and minimal taxpayer interaction. Those needing adjustments can use SARS eFiling or the MobiApp.

More than 2.1 million taxpayers interacted with SARS through digital channels during this period. Of those, 1.1 million queries were handled through the online query system, 707,000 via WhatsApp, and 290,000 through the AI-powered Lwazi Chat Bot. Over 10.2 million unique users accessed online services since July 4.

The Auto Assessment window closed on July 20. Regular filing for individual taxpayers now runs from July 21 to October 20, with provisional taxpayers filing by Jan. 19, 2026. Online assessment outcomes now take under five seconds, SARS said.

Refunds above R100 are processed into verified bank accounts. To reduce fraud, SARS uses advanced AI and machine learning models to detect risk. Taxpayers are urged to avoid phishing scams and protect login details.

“SARS is working hard to give taxpayers the best service, where ‘tax just happens,’” said Commissioner Edward Kieswetter. “Our aim is to make the best service be no service at all.”