SARS 3.0
SARS Modernisation Experience Statement
SARS is modernising its Tax Administration Platform into an intelligent digital system embedded with data science and artificial intelligence . This transformation will foster trust, promote efficiency, and ensure transparency . To enhance service while managing risks, the platform will revolutionise taxpayer and trader interactions with SARS, driving voluntary compliance . In the future, taxpayers and their nominated representatives will receive a unique digital identity for secure access to the SARS Digital Administration Platform. Authentication will primarily use biometric and two-factor methods to strengthen transaction integrity, improve data accuracy, and maintain a single version of the truth. Once verified, users will gain a comprehensive view of their tax accounts across registered products. This allows intuitive, self-reliant actions like updating demographic details, checking compliance status, querying accounts, and fulfilling obligations. To boost taxpayer service, skilled and professional SARS employees will be empowered with the same comprehensive account views to resolve or advance outstanding matters efficiently. SARS will leverage the South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) initiative for a cost- effective instant payment system , aiming to increase financial inclusion, reduce cash circulation, and enhance
the national payment system’s integrity.
At the core is an intelligent case management system that supports voluntary compliance through automating routine tasks, harnessing big data, deploying Agentic AI, and improving taxpayer service and productivity. This includes shifting from declaration-based to real-time risk profiling and case selection, embedded in an entity-based compliance model within the digital platform. This modernisation phase focus on modernising VAT administration, connecting SARS across the value chain to every point of sale—with the goal of eventual auto- assessment, similar to Personal Income Tax (PIT). It will also include minor taxes. SARS will also partner with the Border Management Authority to modernise Customs & Excise , upgrading both physical and technology infrastructure toward a “no-stop” experience at Ports of Entry. Overall, SARS will collaborate with government partners to adopt a “whole of government” approach and leverage private sector partnerships to support, supplement, and accelerate implementation.”
Edward Chr Kieswetter October 2025
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