How to Attach Supporting Documents to SARS eFiling

By Tevait Feanle •  Updated: 05/20/23 •  6 min read

Supporting documents are an important part of the overall SARS ecosystem. They act as proof of important facts- from your identity to your bank account- that help SARS to verify that you are who you say you are. You may also be asked to submit proofs of expenditure (for income tax) and other items. Knowing how to work with supporting documents is critical to anyone who uses SARS eFIling. Today we break down everything you need to know about supporting documents.

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What are SARS Supporting Documents?

SARS requires that certain supporting documents be submitted along with tax returns, detail changes, and other parts of tax maintenance. They help to ensure that the information reported is accurate and complete. The following is a list of some of the common SARS supporting documents:

The specific supporting documents required may vary depending on your tax circumstances, so be sure to check with SARS for a complete list of the required documents for your situation! Supporting documents are also used when you change important details like your bank accounts.

How do I Attach Supporting Documents to SARS eFiling?

Attaching supporting documents to your SARS eFiling is a straightforward process. Typically you will be prompted as you go through the tax form or detail change. Here’s how to do it:

Note: The exact process for attaching supporting documents may vary depending on the version of SARS eFiling you are using. If you have any difficulties, consult the SARS eFiling website for assistance or contact the SARS call centre for further guidance.

How do I Submit Supporting Documents on SARS Online’s Query System?

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has an online query system that allows you to submit supporting documents and resolve any queries related to your tax affairs. Here’s how to submit supporting documents using the SARS online query system:

You can monitor the status of your query by returning to the “My Queries” tab. SARS will update the status of the query and provide you with feedback as it is processed.

Can I Email my Supporting Documents to SARS?

SARS does not generally accept supporting documents via email or telephone due to fraud risks. It is recommended that you submit your supporting documents through the SARS eFiling system or through the SARS online query system. This ensures that your documents are securely transmitted and properly linked to your tax affairs.

If you are unable to submit your supporting documents through the eFiling system or online query system, you may be able to submit them in person at a SARS branch. 

Submitting your supporting documents in a timely and accurate manner is important to ensure that your tax affairs are in order and that you are in compliance with SARS regulations. It will also help with faster resolutions.

How do I Open SARS Attachments?

The attachments you receive from SARS can be opened using a variety of software programs, depending on the file format. Typically, most SARS attachments are in .pdf format. This can be accessed via the Adobe Acrobat reader program. Many more modern operating systems have .pdf readers inbuilt, to make this even easier, so you may not need special software at all.

Responding to requests for supporting documents quickly will make the process of filing taxes and resolving queries faster and easier, so it is well worth taking the time to understand them properly. 

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