How to view your SARS auto assessment status on WhatsApp

South African taxpayers who are uncertain whether they were included in the recent automatic tax assessment process can now check their status directly through the country's tax authority via WhatsApp. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has confirmed that the auto-assessment period, which ran from July 1 to July 12, 2026, has concluded. Taxpayers who were selected for this automated process received notifications to review their pre-filled tax information either through the eFiling portal or the SARS MobiApp. Those who did not receive such notices can now verify their status using the SARS WhatsApp channel. During the initial phase of the tax filing season, approximately 1.9 million individuals were automatically assessed by SARS. Within three days, the agency processed and distributed roughly R8 billion in tax refunds. This marked a significant increase in efficiency compared to previous years, allowing many taxpayers to avoid manually submitting their returns. To determine if they were selected for auto-assessment, taxpayers can follow a straightforward procedure on WhatsApp. They must first add the official SARS WhatsApp number, 0800-11-7277, to their contacts. Once added, they should initiate a conversation by sending a greeting message, such as “Hi” or “Hello.” Afterward, they should choose the option labeled “Auto Assess Status,” then send it. The system will prompt them to enter specific personal details for verification, including their identity document or passport number and their tax reference number. Upon successful verification, SARS will provide the taxpayer with their auto-assessment status directly in the WhatsApp chat. SARS has issued a caution regarding potential delays on its eFiling platform, noting that heavy user traffic could cause temporary disruptions. In such cases, taxpayers may be able to access their auto-assessment information in read-only format while waiting for full access to the eFiling website. Limited features will remain available until the traffic decreases, after which full functionality will resume. This feature is currently exclusive to individual eFiling users. The introduction of the WhatsApp-based verification tool aims to ease the burden on SARS’s digital infrastructure and offer taxpayers a more accessible alternative for checking their status. It aligns with broader efforts to modernize tax administration and improve public engagement with government services. By leveraging widely used communication platforms, SARS hopes to reduce the administrative strain on its systems and ensure smoother processing for all taxpayers. The auto-assessment initiative was part of SARS’s strategy to streamline the tax filing process and minimize errors associated with manual submissions. The success of the program, evidenced by the swift distribution of refunds, underscores the effectiveness of automation in tax administration. However, the agency continues to emphasize the importance of verifying one’s status through official channels to avoid confusion or potential issues with tax compliance. As the tax season progresses, SARS encourages all taxpayers to stay informed about their obligations and take advantage of the tools provided to facilitate accurate and timely filings. For those who were not auto-assessed, the SARS MobiApp remains a viable option for completing their tax returns. The agency has also reiterated its commitment to improving the overall taxpayer experience through technological innovation and responsive customer support.