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.

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Dear Stakeholder,

The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) remains committed to ensuring fairness between taxpayers and SARS. Our role is simple but essential: to provide independent, impartial support when tax related matters arise. By promoting transparency, accessibility and justice, we help strengthen public trust and protect taxpayer rights.

Every concern matters and every voice deserves to be heard.

Meet Sandi: A Business Owner Who Needed Fairness

Sandi runs a small business. When a SARS refund was delayed, pressure quickly mounted. Bills began piling up, cash flow tightened, and she worried about the future of the business she had worked tirelessly to build.

Unsure where to turn, Sandi contacted the Office of the Tax Ombud.

We listened to her story.
We explained her rights.
We helped her understand the steps she could take.

The OTO does not take sides. Our mandate is to ensure fairness for both taxpayers and SARS. In Sandi’s case, her voice was heard, her complaint was reviewed impartially, and the matter was resolved fairly.

Be smart like Sandi. Know your tax rights and obligations, and stay empowered.

Discover your rights and obligations

Note: Taxpayer testimonials reflect common experiences but do not refer to a specific individual or business.

Follow the Complaints Process -
Be Smart Like Sandi

When things don’t go as expected, knowing how to raise a complaint is essential. The OTO’s complaints process is simple, accessible, transparent and designed to protect your rights.

Every complaint is taken seriously and reviewed fairly, no matter the circumstances.

Fairness isn’t a privilege. It is your right.

Lodge a complaint now

Mall Activation

Join the Office of the Tax Ombud and South African Revenue Service

Where: Diamond Pavilion Mall (Entrance 1, next to Old Mutual)

Date: 6 -7 March 2026

Time: Friday 9am – 7pm, Saturday 9am – 5pm

Services Offered On-Site

Help with unresolved tax complaints
Assistance with SARS queries and processes
Education on taxpayers’ rights and obligations

Supporting Documents Required:

To complete your Income Tax Return, you need :

Proof of Identity: ID, Passport or divers license
Proof of Income: All IRP5/ITR(a) certificates, ITR3(b) certificates for investment income, rental income, and capital gains.
Proof of deductions: Receipts for medical expenses, tax certificates, travel logbook, retirement annuity certificates.

Thank You for Staying Informed

The Office of the Tax Ombud is here to listen and ensure that every taxpayer is treated with fairness and dignity.

📞 Contact the OTO

Toll free: 0800 662 837

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.taxombud.gov.za

The information provided in this document is protected by applicable intellectual property laws and may not be copied, distributed or modified for any purpose without the explicit consent of the OTO. The information was correct at the time of publication but may have subsequently changed. This newsletter is for information purposes only and cannot be considered to be a legal reference. The use of this information by any person shall be entirely at that person’s discretion. The Office of the Tax Ombud does not expressly or by implication represent, recommend or propose that services referred to in this document are appropriate to the needs of any particular person. The OTO does not accept any liability due to any loss, damages, costs and expenses, which may be sustained or incurred directly or indirectly as a result of any error or omission contained in this newsletter. The information does not supersede any legislation and readers who are in doubt regarding any aspect of the information displayed in the newsletter should refer to the relevant legislation or seek a formal opinion from a suitably qualified individual.

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Newsletter 10 Ensuring Fairness between taxpayers and SARS

Meet Sandi: A Business Owner Who Needed Fairness