The decision to extend the filing season was taken with due consideration of the traumatic effects being experienced by taxpayers who have lost loved ones, as well as businesses who have lost staff, during the devastating second wave of Covid-19, Sars commissioner, Edward Kieswetter, said in a statement.
He urged taxpayers to comply with their legal obligations by 15 February 2021, saying failure to comply will result in administrative penalties being levied. “While Sars believes that most taxpayers and traders comply voluntarily and want to do the right thing, we also have measures we can use to enforce compliance. However, such enforcement always remains a last resort."
Sars offices have been closed to the public since 24 December, and physical visits to branches are not allowed. Appointments can, however, be made to speak to tax officials over the phone or, for a video call, via Microsoft Teams.
