What is the Tax Ombud, and what do they do?

The Tax Ombud is an independent office that investigates complaints against the South African Revenue Service (SARS). We help taxpayers resolve disputes, ensure fair treatment, and promote a just tax system.

How can I lodge a complaint with the Tax Ombud?

You can lodge a complaint online through our website, by email, or by post. Our website provides detailed instructions and forms to assist you.

I received a tax assessment I disagree with. What can I do?

You can lodge a formal objection with SARS within a specified timeframe. If you're dissatisfied with SARS's response, you can escalate the matter to the Tax Ombud.

I'm having trouble with SARS's eFiling system. Who can I contact for help?

You can contact SARS directly through their eFiling helpdesk or visit a SARS branch. If you're still experiencing difficulties, you can lodge a complaint with the Tax Ombud.

I'm concerned about a SARS audit. What should I do?

Cooperate with the SARS auditor and provide all necessary documentation. If you believe the audit is unfair or excessive, you can consult with a tax advisor or lodge a complaint with the Tax Ombud.

I'm having trouble with SARS's debt collection process. What are my rights?

SARS must follow specific procedures when collecting debt. If you believe SARS is not following these procedures, you can lodge a complaint with the Tax Ombud.

I'm a small business owner and I'm struggling with SARS compliance. Where can I get help?

Consider consulting with a tax advisor or seeking assistance from SARS's Small Business Support Unit. If you encounter issues with SARS, you can also lodge a complaint with the Tax Ombud.

I'm a foreign national living in South Africa. What are my tax obligations?

Your tax obligations will depend on your specific circumstances. You may need to file a non-resident tax return or a resident tax return. Consult with a tax advisor or contact SARS for more information.

I've received a tax refund that is incorrect. How can I rectify this?

Contact SARS directly to resolve the issue. If you're unable to resolve the matter, you can lodge a complaint with the Tax Ombud.

I'm concerned about data privacy and security with SARS. What can I do?

SARS has strict data privacy and security protocols. If you have concerns about how SARS is handling your personal information, you can lodge a complaint with the Tax Ombud.

Media Releases - Office of the Tax Ombud

OTO Launches 2026 Awareness Campaign: Smart Taxpayers Make a Difference

1 July 2026 Media

The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) today officially launches its 2026 Taxpayer Awareness Campaign, “Smart Taxpayers Make a Difference,” in support of the 2026 Tax Filing Season, which commences…

Publication of the OTO’s draft report into alleged e-Filing Profile Hijacking

1 October 2025 Media

The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) today,1 October 2025, publishes the Draft Report into alleged eFiling Profile Hijacking for public comment. The closing date for submissions is 31 October…

Media Statement: Joint statement by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO)

26 September 2025 Media

SARS and the OTO note with concern the recent article published by Sowetan regarding the rising number of SARS eFiling profiles reportedly hijacked by cyber-fraud criminals, resulting in significant financial…

Media Statement: Postponement of the publication of the Draft Report on the Investigation into alleged SARS eFiling Profile Hijacking

2 July 2025 Media

2 July 2025: The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) announces the postponement of the publication of the draft report on its investigation into alleged SARS eFiling profile hijacking, initially…

Invitation to participate in the eFiling profile hijacking taxpayer experience survey

3 February 2025 Media

On 15 August 2024, the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) announced that it sought and obtained approval from the Minister of Finance to conduct a review of possible systemic…

The Office of the Tax Ombud launches the 2023/24 Annual Report

6 November 2024 Media

Following the tabling of the Office of the Tax Ombud (“OTO”) 2023/24 Annual Report by the Minister of Finance in Parliament on 18 September 2024, today, on 6 November 2024,…

Media Releases

OTO Launches 2026 Awareness Campaign: Smart Taxpayers Make a Difference

Publication of the OTO’s draft report into alleged e-Filing Profile Hijacking

Media Statement: Joint statement by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO)

Media Statement: Postponement of the publication of the Draft Report on the Investigation into alleged SARS eFiling Profile Hijacking

Invitation to participate in the eFiling profile hijacking taxpayer experience survey

The Office of the Tax Ombud launches the 2023/24 Annual Report

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