/ 9 May 2006

Internet tax returns to cut down on hassle

About 2,7-million individual tax payers will be able to submit their tax returns through the internet for the first time in South Africa this year.

”It takes out a lot of the hassle factor,” Minister of Finance Trevor Manuel said on Tuesday.

The new service will be available to individuals who earn a basic salary and allowances such as medical aid and travel.

Manuel was speaking at the official launch of the South African Revenue Service’s tax-filing-season campaign for 2006 in Johannesburg.

The deadline for tax payers to submit their income-tax returns is July 14.

Tax payers who want to use the electronic facility must register on www.sarsefiling.co.za and must be in receipt of an IT12S or an IT12SS income-tax return.

This service will be available from June 1.

Manuel said the South African Revenue Service will issue 5,3-million tax returns to individuals, businesses and trusts that are required by law to submit a return and declare all income to the service. — Sapa