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Activating a Representative on SARS e-Filing: The Changes and How to Navigate Them
In this article, we will discuss the changes made to the system, the reasons for the changes, and how to activate a representative on SARS e-Filing. E-filing is a convenient system that allows individuals and businesses to submit their tax returns online. However, the system has undergone some changes that have caused some challenges for users. In the past, users could simply register for e-filing and activate their tax number by clicking a button. Now, SARS (South African Revenue Service) requires users to activate a representative before they can access their tax number.
Changes to the e-Filing System
Before the changes to the e-filing system, users could activate their tax number as soon as they logged into their e-filing profile. Now, users must first activate a representative before they can access their tax number. This means that even if you are an individual taxpayer, you will have to go through this process.
The system has been changed to require activation of a representative so that SARS can have updated contact details for taxpayers. This will enable them to contact taxpayers if they do not pay their taxes or to update taxpayers on any changes to their tax status.
Navigating the Changes
There are two ways to activate a Representative on SARS e-Filing: the long way and the short way.
The Long Way
To activate a Representative on SARS e-Filing, go to the SARS website and follow these steps:
- Go to the online services section on the SARS website.
- Click on “register representative.”
- Fill in your details or the details of your entity.
- Upload supporting documents such as your ID document, proof of your bank details, and proof of address.
- Submit the form.
In theory, once you submit the form, the representative should be activated. However, it may take up to 21 working days for SARS to activate the representative.
The Short Way
To activate a Representative on SARS e-Filing quickly, follow these steps:
- Go to the SARS booking system.
- Choose whether you are making the appointment for an individual or a company.
- Follow the steps to make an appointment.
By following these steps, you can activate your representative on e-filing quickly and easily.
The e-filing system has undergone some changes that have made it necessary for users to activate a representative before they can access their tax number. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can navigate the changes easily and activate your representative on e-filing.
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