Tax returns for the current year (2007) numbered more than 2.3 million – an increase of 6% - and thereby set another record. The filing of outstanding returns also reached record numbers, with 872,000 returns filed.

However, according to SARS, the biggest success story of the 2007 filing season campaign so far was the uptake of SARS eFiling.

"We are encouraged by the rate at which taxpayers and practitioners have adopted electronic filing with more than 940,000 returns having been issued via eFiling and already more than 250,000 filed. This is an increase of 600% on last year," the Revenue Service stated.

SARS still expects about 1 million tax returns to be filed this season, but this can only be done via SARS eFiling by 31 January 2008. The Revenue Service is urging those who need to register to do so at the earliest opportunity, as it anticipates high volumes on its network during January as taxpayers rush to meet the deadline.

SARS also stated that where the information supplied by taxpayers matches the information in SARS’s possession, taxpayers can expect reduced turnaround times in receiving their assessment and, where applicable, refunds. However, where the information does not correlate, SARS intends to investigate further, including requesting that taxpayers submit copies of their supporting documents for review.

SARS has also introduced two new forms to speed up and simplify the objection process. The first, a Request for Correction, is completed by taxpayers who have made an error on their return or believe SARS to have made an error. The second form, a Notice of Objection, is used when the information is accurate but the taxpayer disputes SARS’s assessment.

"As we continue to roll out the new assessment process and are getting better at providing better service to taxpayers, we are acutely aware of the important role employers have in this tax administration process. The provision information about employees accurately, timeously and electronically to SARS is vital in offering honest taxpayers with the best response time," SARS stated.

"We will be engaging with employers over the coming months to work out systems and procedures to streamline relations with SARS especially where the provision of taxpayer data is concerned for both this year and preparations for next year," it added.