SARS Introduces USSD Service For Taxpayers
As we know, communication is key for a good relationship, and SARS is looking at strengthening its relationship with taxpayers and ensuring easier compliance.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced a new way for taxpayers to access tax-related services that is convenient, easy to use, and free of charge. Starting today (20th March 2023), taxpayers can now access these services by simply typing in a USSD string *134*7277# into their mobile devices to SARS.
This new USSD service, also known as 'quick codes', is a breakthrough for taxpayers who may not have access to the internet or a smartphone. With this service, they can now request specific tax-related services such as finding out their tax number, checking their account balance, and verifying if they need to file a tax return or book appointments, all without the need for an internet connection.
What are the benefits of this new USSD service? We have identified a number of advantages that make this delivery channel particularly suitable for certain taxpayers, including:
1. It is free: Taxpayers can access tax-related services without incurring any cost.
2. Convenient: With the USSD string *134*7277#, taxpayers can access a range of tax-related services on the go, at any time, and from anywhere within South Africa where there is network coverage.
3. No need for internet or smartphone: The USSD service can be accessed on even the most basic mobile phone. This makes it particularly useful for those taxpayers who do not have access to the internet or a smartphone in order for them to log in to their SARS profile or google tax information.
4. Time-saving: The USSD service reduces the time and effort required for taxpayers to access tax-related services. They no longer have to wait in long queues when calling SARS to get the information they need.
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Here are the additional tax services that taxpayers can access via the USSD channel:
1. What's my Tax number?
2. Account balance
3. Do I need to file a tax return?
4. eBooking
The new USSD service launched by SARS is a significant development that promises to make it easier for taxpayers to access Income Tax related services, especially for those who do not have access to smartphones or the internet.