How to Get Tax Number in South Africa: 6 Easy SARS Methods
If you’re searching for how to get tax number in South Africa, you can register through SARS eFiling, the SARS Online Query System, WhatsApp or USSD. If you’re already registered but have forgotten your number, SARS also allows you to retrieve your existing tax number through eFiling, SMS, WhatsApp, USSD or its online services.
The important first step is working out whether you need a new tax number or simply need to find a tax number SARS has already issued to you.
This guide explains both situations step by step.
Table of Contents
What Is a SARS Tax Number?
A SARS tax number, also known as a tax reference number, identifies you as a registered taxpayer with the South African Revenue Service.
Your tax number is different from your South African ID number.
You may need your tax number when:
- Starting a new job.
- Dealing with SARS.
- Registering for or using SARS eFiling.
- Completing certain employment or financial documents.
- Providing proof of your tax registration.
If you have already been registered with SARS, you generally need to retrieve your existing number rather than register again.
How to Get Tax Number in South Africa
There are several official SARS channels you can use.
1. Get a Tax Number Through SARS eFiling
For many people, SARS eFiling is the easiest place to start.
SARS states that if you register for eFiling for the first time and do not already have a Personal Income Tax number, SARS can automatically register you for Personal Income Tax and issue a tax reference number.
A valid South African ID is required for this eFiling registration route.
Step 1: Open SARS eFiling
Go to the official SARS eFiling website.
Select Register if you are a new eFiling user.
Step 2: Enter Your Information
Complete the information requested during registration.
Make sure details such as your name, identification information and contact details are correct.
Do not rush this part of the process. Incorrect information may make verification more difficult.
Step 3: Complete Verification
Follow the SARS verification instructions.
SARS may use a One-Time PIN or other authentication procedures to verify your registration.
If SARS cannot automatically complete the process, you may be asked to provide additional information.
Step 4: Receive Your Tax Number
If you do not already have a Personal Income Tax number, SARS states that you can be automatically registered and issued a tax reference number during first-time eFiling registration.
Once registered, you can also obtain your Notice of Registration (IT150), which displays your tax reference number.
2. How to Get Your Tax Number Through SARS Online Query System
Another option is the SARS Online Query System (SOQS).
This is particularly useful when you think you already have a tax number but cannot remember it.
SARS provides a “What’s My Tax Number?” query through SOQS.
For this query, SARS says your tax number can be sent to the email address or cellphone number recorded on its system after the necessary verification.
Use the official SARS website to access the service:
SARS tax registration and tax-number services
3. How to Get SARS Tax Number by SMS
Already registered but can’t remember your tax number?
SARS provides an SMS service.
Send:
TRN [space] your ID number
to:
47277
For example:
TRN 1234567890123
Replace the example number with your actual identification number.
SARS also provides for relevant passport or asylum-seeker numbers where applicable.
Remember that this method is primarily useful for retrieving an existing tax number. It is not the same thing as registering as a taxpayer for the first time.
4. How to Get Your Tax Number Using USSD
You can also use your cellphone.
Dial:
*134*7277#
Follow the SARS prompts displayed on your phone.
The USSD service provides access to Personal Income Tax services, including registration and finding an existing tax number.
This can be particularly useful if you don’t have convenient access to a computer.
5. How to Get a Tax Number Using SARS WhatsApp
SARS also provides services through WhatsApp.
The SARS WhatsApp number is:
0800 11 7277
Save the number to your contacts and send “Hi” or “Hello” to begin.
Follow the available menu options.
SARS currently provides Personal Income Tax registration through WhatsApp, while registered taxpayers can also use WhatsApp to request tax-related information such as their tax number or Notice of Registration.
You will need to complete SARS’s authentication process before personal tax information can be provided.
6. Get Your Tax Number Through the SARS MobiApp
SARS also provides its MobiApp for taxpayers who prefer managing their tax affairs from a smartphone.
The app can be used for various Personal Income Tax services.
SARS includes the MobiApp among its digital channels for managing tax affairs and obtaining tax information.
Use official SARS channels when locating the application rather than downloading an app from an unfamiliar link.
How to Check If You Already Have a Tax Number
This is an important step.
Don’t automatically assume you need to register for a new tax number.
You may already be registered.
SARS explains that some individuals can be automatically registered for Income Tax using information SARS receives from third parties.
If you’re unsure whether you already have a tax number, you can:
- Check through SARS eFiling.
- Use the SARS Online Query System.
- Ask your employer.
- Use SARS WhatsApp.
- Contact the SARS Contact Centre.
The SARS Contact Centre number is:
0800 00 7277.
Checking first can prevent unnecessary confusion.
How to Find a Lost SARS Tax Number
If you previously had a tax number but have forgotten it, you normally don’t need to register again.
Instead, retrieve your existing number.
Some of the available options include:
SMS: Send TRN [space] ID number to 47277.
USSD: Dial *134*7277#.
WhatsApp: Use 0800 11 7277.
Online: Use the SARS Online Query System.
eFiling: Obtain your Notice of Registration.
These services provide different ways to recover your SARS tax information without unnecessarily creating another registration.
What Is an IT150?
The IT150 is a Notice of Registration.
This document provides proof that you are registered for Income Tax and displays your tax reference number.
This distinction matters because someone may ask you for proof of your tax number, not merely the number itself.
In that situation, your Notice of Registration may be what you need.
Registered eFiling users can obtain their Notice of Registration through SARS eFiling.
How to Get Proof of Your Tax Number
If your employer or another organisation requires proof of your SARS tax registration, request your Notice of Registration (IT150).
SARS provides several channels for obtaining tax-registration information, including its digital services.
Keep your IT150 somewhere secure once you receive it.
You may need it again in future.
Can I Get a Tax Number Without Going to SARS?
Yes.
You generally don’t have to visit a SARS branch simply to register for or retrieve a tax number.
SARS provides several remote options, including:
- eFiling
- SARS Online Query System
- SARS MobiApp
- USSD
If your issue cannot be resolved digitally and you need assistance at a SARS branch, check SARS’s current branch and appointment requirements before travelling.
Can I Get a SARS Tax Number on My Phone?
Yes.
You can access several SARS services from your cellphone.
For example, you can use:
WhatsApp: 0800 11 7277
USSD: *134*7277#
SMS for an existing number: TRN + your ID number to 47277
You can also use SARS’s mobile and online services.
This means getting or retrieving your tax information does not necessarily require a computer.
What If SARS Has My Old Phone Number?
Outdated contact information can cause problems when trying to retrieve your tax number.
For example, SARS says information requested through its Online Query System may be sent to the cellphone number or email address already registered on the SARS system.
If your details have changed, you may need to update them through an appropriate SARS channel.
Don’t use someone else’s phone number or email address simply to bypass the verification process.
Do I Need a Tax Number to Start Working?
Your employer may need tax-registration information when you start working.
If you’ve just entered the workforce and have never registered for Income Tax, SARS provides a first-time registration process.
A new eFiling user with a valid South African ID who doesn’t already have a Personal Income Tax number can be automatically registered for Income Tax during eFiling registration.
If you’re starting your first job, you may also want to understand how PAYE works in South Africa.
Internal link opportunity: Link the phrase “how PAYE works in South Africa” to your existing NewsDomain PAYE article.
Does Having a Tax Number Mean I Must Pay Tax?
No. Having a tax number does not automatically mean that you owe SARS money.
Your tax reference number identifies your registration with SARS.
Whether you actually owe Income Tax depends on factors such as your income, circumstances and the tax rules applying to the relevant tax year.
Similarly, being registered doesn’t mean every taxpayer has exactly the same filing obligations.
For current tax thresholds and filing requirements, always check the latest information directly from SARS.
Is It Free to Get a SARS Tax Number?
You can use SARS’s official registration services directly.
You don’t need to pay someone simply to access normal SARS taxpayer-registration channels.
Professional tax practitioners may charge for providing professional tax services, but that is different from SARS charging you to obtain a tax number.
Be particularly careful with strangers on social media offering to “create” SARS tax numbers for a fee.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Tax Number?
There isn’t one processing time that applies to every taxpayer.
Some registrations can be completed through SARS’s automated systems, while other applications may require additional verification or information.
SARS states that additional information may be required where eFiling registration cannot immediately be completed.
Therefore, don’t rely on websites or individuals promising that every SARS tax number will be issued within a specific number of minutes.
Common Mistakes When Getting a SARS Tax Number
A few mistakes can make the process harder than necessary.
Trying to register when you already have a tax number
Check first if you’re unsure.
You may already be registered with SARS.
Entering incorrect contact details
Make sure the information you provide to SARS is accurate, especially your cellphone number and email address.
Confusing your ID number with your tax number
Your South African ID number and SARS tax reference number are not the same thing.
Confusing a tax number with a PRN
A SARS Payment Reference Number (PRN) is used for allocating certain tax payments. It is not your Personal Income Tax reference number.
Sharing your eFiling login details
Never give your SARS eFiling password or OTP to strangers.
Your tax profile contains sensitive personal information and should be protected.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Get Tax Number
How do I get a tax number for the first time?
One option is to register for SARS eFiling. SARS states that a first-time eFiling user with a valid South African ID who doesn’t already have a Personal Income Tax number can be automatically registered and issued a tax reference number.
How can I get my SARS tax number online?
Use SARS eFiling or the SARS Online Query System. If you already have a tax number but can’t remember it, SOQS provides a “What’s My Tax Number?” service.
How do I get my tax number by SMS?
Send:
TRN [space] your ID number
to 47277.
How do I get my tax number using USSD?
Dial:
*134*7277#
Then follow the SARS menu.
What is the SARS WhatsApp number?
SARS lists its WhatsApp number as:
0800 11 7277.
Can I get a tax number without visiting SARS?
Yes. SARS provides online and mobile channels including eFiling, SOQS, WhatsApp and USSD.
How do I know if I already have a SARS tax number?
You can check using SARS’s digital services, ask your employer or contact SARS.
What document proves my tax number?
Your Notice of Registration (IT150) provides proof of your Income Tax registration and displays your tax reference number.
Final Steps: How to Get Tax Number in South Africa
If you need a tax number for the first time, start with SARS eFiling.
Register your profile, provide the required information and complete SARS’s verification process. If you don’t already have a Personal Income Tax number, SARS can automatically register you and issue one through first-time eFiling registration.
If you already have a tax number but have forgotten it, don’t register again. Retrieve it using eFiling, SOQS, SMS, WhatsApp or USSD.
For the latest official instructions, always check: