Navigating Tax Number Issues with SARS
Complete guide for South African residents and expats
Last updated: November 2025
Table of Contents
What Is a SARS Tax Number?
A SARS tax number is your unique identification number from the South African Revenue Service. This is a 10-digit number that starts with 0, 1, 2, 3, or 9.
This number is also called your Tax Reference Number (TRN). It is your personal identifier for all tax matters in South Africa. Once SARS issues your tax number, it never changes throughout your life.
Your tax number appears on your Notice of Registration (IT150). This is the official document SARS sends when they register you.
⚠️ Who Needs a Tax Number?
You must register for a tax number if you earn income above the tax threshold. For the 2025 tax year, these thresholds are:
| Age Group | Annual Threshold (2025) |
|---|---|
| Under 65 years | R95,750 |
| 65 to 74 years | R148,217 |
| 75 years and older | R165,689 |
You also need a tax number for:
- Opening certain bank accounts
- Accessing retirement funds or pensions
- Buying or selling property
- Applying for credit at most institutions
- Claiming tax refunds
- Starting any formal employment
Legal requirement: You must register within 60 days of first receiving income above the threshold.
✅ Six Free Ways to Get Your Tax Number
All methods are 100% FREE. Never pay anyone to get your tax number.
Method 1: SARS eFiling (Easiest for Most People)
When you register on eFiling for the first time, SARS automatically creates your tax number.
- Go to www.sarsefiling.co.za
- Click “Register”
- Follow the prompts to create your profile
- SARS will verify your details
- You will receive your tax number immediately
Requirements: You need a valid South African ID number. Foreign nationals should use Method 6 (branch visit).
Method 2: SMS to SARS
Send an SMS to 47277 with this format:
TRN [space] YourIDNumber
Example: TRN 8901015800086
SARS will send your tax number by SMS. This works even without airtime or data.
Method 3: WhatsApp with SARS
Save 0800 11 7277 as a contact. Then:
- Send a greeting like “Hi” or “Hello”
- SARS will send a menu
- Select “Tax Reference Number”
- Answer the verification questions
- SARS will email your IT150 certificate
Method 4: USSD Code
Dial *134*7277# on your phone. This opens the SARS menu:
- Select “Personal Income Tax”
- Choose “Tax Reference Number”
- Enter your ID or passport number
- SARS will SMS your tax number
This method works without data or airtime.
Method 5: Through Your Employer
Your employer can register you directly through eFiling. Ask your HR department or payroll officer to help. They can do this when they set up your employment records.
Method 6: SARS Branch Visit
You MUST book an appointment first. Walk-ins are not accepted.
Three ways to book:
- Call 0800 00 7277 (select option 0)
- SMS “Booking [space] IDNumber” to 47277
- Online at tools.sars.gov.za/SARSeBooking
Bring all required documents (see Section 5). SARS will register you on the spot.
How to Retrieve a Forgotten Tax Number
Already registered but forgot your tax number? You can retrieve it easily:
Check Your Documents First
- IRP5 from employer: Your tax number appears on this annual certificate
- Payslips: Many employers print tax numbers on monthly payslips
- Notice of Registration (IT150): Your original tax certificate from SARS
- Bank documents: Some banks record your tax number
Request Your Number from SARS
Use any method from Section 3:
- SMS “TRN [space] IDNumber” to 47277
- WhatsApp 0800 11 7277 and request it
- Dial *134*7277# and follow prompts
- Call SARS on 0800 00 7277
- Use the SARS Online Query System (SOQS)
Documents You Need
For South African Citizens
| Document Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Identity Document | Green barcoded ID book OR smart ID card (original and copy) |
| Proof of Address | Municipal bill, utility bill, or lease agreement (not older than 3 months) |
| Bank Details | 3 months’ bank statements (original, stamped by bank) |
For Foreign Nationals
- Passport: Valid foreign passport (original and certified copy)
- Permit: Work permit, study permit, or asylum seeker certificate
- Proof of address: Same as above
- Bank statements: 3 months, original and bank-stamped
Important Notes About Documents
Proof of Address Rules:
- Document must show your name and physical address
- Bank statements do NOT count as proof of address
- If address is in someone else’s name, use form CRA01
- Rural areas: Get a letter from your Chief or Councillor
Certification: Visit any police station to certify copies. Bring original documents with you. Certification is free at police stations.
⚠️ Common Problems and Solutions
Problem 1: Forgot eFiling Password
Solution:
- Go to www.sarsefiling.co.za
- Click “Forgot Password”
- Enter your username
- Choose email or SMS for OTP
- Follow prompts to reset password
Problem 2: Changed Phone Number or Email
Solution for SA citizens:
- Use the “Update Security Contact Details” option on eFiling
- Complete biometric facial recognition verification
- Update your details
For non-SA citizens: You must call 0800 00 7277 or visit a SARS branch.
Problem 3: Cannot Register on eFiling
Common causes and solutions:
- Details don’t match records: Check your ID number, name spelling, date of birth
- No camera for facial recognition: Book a SARS branch appointment
- Foreign passport holder: Visit a SARS branch instead
- Technical error: Try different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
Problem 4: Tax Number Not Found
If SARS says you’re not registered:
- Double-check you entered correct ID/passport number
- Ask your employer if they registered you
- Call SARS on 0800 00 7277 to verify status
- If never registered, register now using Section 3 methods
Problem 5: Employer Hasn’t Registered Me
Your options:
- Register yourself using eFiling (fastest)
- Ask employer to register you through their eFiling
- Register at SARS branch with employment contract
Legal note: Employers must register employees. If earning above threshold, you must register yourself within 60 days.
eFiling Registration Step-by-Step
eFiling is the easiest way to manage your tax. Here’s exactly how to register:
Before You Start
- Have your ID number ready
- Have a device with a camera (for facial recognition)
- Know your banking details
- Have a valid email address and phone number
Registration Steps
- Visit www.sarsefiling.co.za – Use Chrome, Firefox, or Edge browser
- Click “Register” – On the top right of the homepage
- Enter personal details – Full name, ID number, date of birth
- Complete facial recognition – Follow on-screen instructions for photo
- Choose username and password – Password must be at least 8 characters
- Add contact details – Email and mobile number for security
- Verify with OTP – Enter code sent to phone or email
- Add banking details – For tax refund payments
- Submit registration – SARS will verify your details
- Receive confirmation – Tax number issued immediately if approved
Security Features (November 2025)
- Two-Factor Authentication: Required for all logins
- Facial Recognition: Mandatory for SA ID holders
- OTP Verification: For password resets and updates
- Session timeouts: Automatic logout after inactivity
🚨 CRITICAL: SARS Tax Number Scams
Tax scams are EVERYWHERE in South Africa during filing season (July-October 2025). Criminals steal billions from taxpayers every year.
Scam #1: Fake SARS SMS/Emails
How it works:
You receive SMS or email claiming to be from SARS. Common messages:
- “Your refund is ready – click here”
- “We are auditing your return – urgent action required”
- “Settlement due by [date] – pay now or face legal action”
- “Your refund is under audit – verify your details”
The message includes a link. When you click, you’re sent to a fake SARS website that steals your login details.
🚨 REMEMBER THIS:
- SARS NEVER sends links via email or SMS
- SARS NEVER asks for passwords or PINs
- SARS NEVER asks for banking details via email
- SARS NEVER demands immediate payment via SMS
Scam #2: eFiling Profile Hijacking
How it works:
Criminals get access to your eFiling profile. They change your banking details. When SARS pays your refund, the money goes to the criminal’s account.
Recent case: A 68-year-old lost R37,000 when his refund was diverted.
How they get access: Through phishing, stolen passwords, or SIM swap fraud.
Scam #3: Fake SARS Officials on Phone Calls
How it works:
Someone calls claiming to be from SARS. They say:
- “We need to verify your tax return”
- “You owe money – pay now or face arrest”
- “We’re processing your refund – give us your OTP”
- “Update your banking details now”
They want: Your eFiling password, OTP codes, or banking details.
🚨 NEVER give:
- eFiling passwords
- OTP codes (one-time pins)
- Banking login details
- Card numbers or CVV codes
Scam #4: Fake Letters of Demand
How it works:
You receive an official-looking email or letter. It says you owe SARS money. There’s a threat of court summons or blacklisting. The letter includes bank account details for payment.
The trick: The bank account is fake. Your payment goes to criminals, not SARS.
Scam #5: Pay-to-Register Services
How it works:
Websites or agents offer to “register your tax number for a fee.” They charge R200-R500 for a service that is FREE.
Sometimes they: Steal your identity documents or register fake tax numbers.
🚨 ABSOLUTE RULES – NO EXCEPTIONS
- Tax number registration is FREE – never pay anyone
- SARS never emails or SMS links to websites
- SARS never asks for passwords or OTPs
- Only make payments at www.sarsefiling.co.za
- If someone calls from “SARS,” hang up and call back on 0800 00 7277
✅ How to Protect Yourself from SARS Scams
1. Verify Everything
- Check all SARS notices on www.sarsefiling.co.za
- Log in to eFiling directly (never through email links)
- Call SARS on 0800 00 7277 to confirm any messages
- Check if SARS really contacted you by logging into your eFiling account
2. Secure Your eFiling Account
- Use a strong password (mix of letters, numbers, symbols)
- Never share your password with anyone
- Change password every few months
- Keep your contact details updated
- Check your banking details regularly on eFiling
3. Protect Your Personal Information
- Never post tax numbers or ID numbers on social media
- Don’t share OTP codes with anyone
- Shred old tax documents before throwing away
- Be careful who you give documents to
4. Recognize Scam Warning Signs
| Red Flag | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Urgent threats | “Pay now or be arrested” – SARS never threatens immediate arrest |
| Links in emails/SMS | SARS never sends clickable links |
| Requests for passwords | SARS never asks for eFiling passwords or OTPs |
| Strange payment methods | Pay via voucher, cryptocurrency, or cash deposit – always fake |
| Fees for free services | Charging for tax number registration – always a scam |
5. What to Do If You’re Scammed
Act immediately:
- Contact your bank to freeze accounts
- Change all eFiling passwords immediately
- Report to SARS on the Online Query System (SOQS) – “Report Digital Fraud”
- Open a case at South African Police Service (SAPS)
- Email [email protected] with scam details
Where to Get Help
Official SARS Contact Channels
| Contact Method | Details | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | 0800 00 7277 (toll-free) | General queries, verification |
| 0800 11 7277 | Quick queries, tax number requests | |
| SMS | 47277 | Tax number, appointments (works without airtime) |
| USSD | *134*7277# | Tax services (works without data) |
| eFiling | www.sarsefiling.co.za | All tax services, documents, returns |
| SOQS | www.sars.gov.za (Send a Query) | Complex issues, complaints, fraud reports |
| Branch | Book via tools.sars.gov.za/SARSeBooking | Document verification, complex cases |
Report Scams and Fraud
- Anti-Phishing Team: [email protected]
- Digital Fraud: Report via SOQS “Report Digital Fraud” option
- SAPS (Police): 10111 or nearest police station
- SABRIC: South African Banking Risk Information Centre
Other Helpful Resources
- Tax Ombud: For complaints about SARS service – 0800 662 837
- National Consumer Commission: 0860 003 600
- SAFPS (Fraud Prevention): Check www.safps.org.za
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does it cost to get a tax number?
A: Zero. It is completely FREE. All SARS services including registration, eFiling, and tax returns are free. Anyone charging you is a scammer.
Q: How long does it take to get a tax number?
A: Immediate if you register on eFiling and verification succeeds. SMS/WhatsApp/USSD methods usually respond within minutes. Branch visits issue numbers on the spot.
Q: Can I have more than one tax number?
A: No. Each person gets one permanent tax number. Different tax types (VAT, PAYE) have different numbers, but your personal income tax number never changes.
Q: What if I don’t earn enough to pay tax?
A: You can still register for a tax number. It’s useful for banking, employment, and other services. You just won’t need to submit tax returns if you’re below the threshold.
Q: Can foreign nationals get a South African tax number?
A: Yes. Foreign nationals working or earning income in South Africa need a tax number. Visit a SARS branch with your passport and valid work permit.
Q: What happens if I never registered but should have?
A: Register immediately using any method in Section 3. SARS may charge penalties for late returns, but registering now is better than never.
Q: Will SARS give my tax number to my employer?
A: SARS only gives your tax number to you or your registered tax practitioner. You must provide it to your employer yourself.
Q: Can I change my tax number?
A: No. Your tax number is permanent and never changes. You can update your personal details (address, bank account) but the number stays the same.
Q: What’s the difference between my ID number and tax number?
A: Your ID number (13 digits) is from Home Affairs. Your tax number (10 digits) is from SARS. They’re different numbers for different purposes.
Q: Since July 2022, SARS auto-registers some people. How do I know if this happened to me?
A: SARS sends an SMS and letter when they auto-register you. Check by SMS (send “TRN YourID” to 47277) or call 0800 00 7277.
✅ Your Rights as a Taxpayer
South African law protects you. You have these rights:
Right to Respectful Service
- SARS staff must treat you with courtesy and respect
- You can complain if you receive poor service
- Language assistance must be provided if needed
Right to Privacy
- Your tax information is confidential
- SARS cannot share your details without permission
- Protected under POPI Act (data protection law)
Right to Clear Information
- You can ask SARS to explain anything you don’t understand
- All tax information must be in clear language
- You have right to copies of your tax records
Right to Complain
- Unhappy with SARS service? Contact Tax Ombud: 0800 662 837
- File complaints through SOQS online system
- SARS must respond to complaints within reasonable time
Right to Dispute
- Disagree with SARS assessment? You can object
- You have right to appeal decisions
- SARS must tell you how to dispute or appeal
Our Final Recommendations
For new tax number: Use eFiling registration (Method 1 in Section 3). It’s fast, free, and automatic. You’ll have your tax number in minutes.
For forgotten tax number: Send SMS to 47277 with “TRN [space] YourID.” This is the fastest method and works without airtime.
For foreign nationals: Visit a SARS branch with your passport and work permit. Book appointment first using the online booking system.
For security: Never click links in SARS emails or SMS. Always go directly to www.sarsefiling.co.za by typing the address yourself.
Most important: Tax number registration is FREE. Any person or website charging money is a scammer. Protect your eFiling password like you protect your bank PIN.
During filing season (July-October), scams increase dramatically. Be extra careful with any SARS communications. When in doubt, call 0800 00 7277 to verify.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and was last updated in November 2025. Tax regulations, fees, and procedures may change. Always verify current information with SARS before making decisions. The tax thresholds and contact numbers listed are current as of November 2025.
All SARS services including tax number registration and eFiling are completely free. Never pay anyone for these services.
For official information, visit www.sars.gov.za or call 0800 00 7277. For complaints about SARS service, contact Tax Ombud at 0800 662 837.