How to Get a Tax Number in South Africa

If you start working, open a business, or earn taxable income in South Africa, you must obtain a tax number from the South African Revenue Service (SARS). A tax number is your unique identification number used by SARS to track your tax records, income declarations, and tax returns.

This guide explains how to get a tax number in South Africa, who needs one, how to register online using SARS eFiling, what documents are required, and what to do if you have lost your tax number. Whether you are a first-time employee, self-employed worker, or starting a business, understanding the tax registration process is essential for staying compliant with South African tax laws.

What Is a Tax Number in South Africa?

A tax number is a unique reference number assigned to taxpayers by the South African Revenue Service. This number is used whenever you interact with SARS regarding tax matters.

Your tax number is linked to important tax activities such as:

Filing annual tax returns
Paying income tax
Receiving tax refunds
Registering for SARS services
Updating personal tax information

In South Africa, tax numbers are usually 10 digits long and remain the same throughout your life.

Once you receive a tax number, it becomes your permanent SARS taxpayer reference number.

Who Needs a Tax Number in South Africa?

Many people assume only business owners need tax numbers, but this is not true. Most people who earn income must have one.

You Need a Tax Number If You:

Start your first job
Earn a salary or wages
Work as a freelancer or contractor
Open a registered business
Receive investment income
Want to file a tax return
Apply for certain financial services

Employers often request a tax number when you begin employment because they must submit employee tax information to SARS.

When Do You Automatically Get a Tax Number?

In some situations, you may receive a tax number automatically.

Automatic Tax Registration

Employers can register new employees with SARS during the payroll process.

When this happens:

SARS creates a tax profile for you
You are assigned a tax number
Your employer deducts PAYE (Pay As You Earn) tax from your salary

However, it is still recommended that you activate your SARS eFiling account to manage your tax records.

Benefits of Having a Tax Number

Having a tax number is important for many financial and legal reasons.

Key Advantages

Legal tax compliance
Ensures you meet South African tax laws.
Access to tax refunds
SARS may refund overpaid tax after assessment.
Easier financial services applications
Banks and financial institutions may require tax compliance.
Business registration requirements
Many companies require a tax number to operate legally.
Credit applications
Financial institutions may check your tax status.

Without a tax number, managing financial and employment matters can become difficult.

Documents Required to Get a Tax Number

Before registering for a tax number in South Africa, prepare the required documents.

Required Documents

You typically need:

South African ID document or passport
Proof of address (not older than 3 months)
Bank account details
Contact details (email and phone number)

If you are a foreign national working in South Africa, additional documents may include:

Work permit
Passport
Temporary residence permit

Ensuring your documents are correct will help prevent delays in tax registration.

How to Get a Tax Number Online Using SARS eFiling

The easiest way to obtain a tax number today is through the SARS eFiling platform.

SARS eFiling allows you to register for tax without visiting a SARS branch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Register for a Tax Number Online

Follow these steps to register with SARS.

Step 1: Visit the SARS eFiling Website

Go to the official SARS eFiling platform.

Click the Register button to create a new account.

Step 2: Create an eFiling Profile

You will need to provide basic personal information including:

ID number
Full name
Date of birth
Email address
Phone number

Create a secure password for your account.

Step 3: Verify Your Contact Details

SARS will send a One-Time Pin (OTP) to verify your:

Email address
Mobile number

Enter the OTP to confirm your details.

Step 4: Complete Your Tax Registration

Once your profile is active, SARS will guide you through the tax registration process.

You must complete the Income Tax Registration (ITR12) process.

Information required includes:

Employment status
Residential address
Bank account details

After submission, SARS processes your registration.

Step 5: Receive Your Tax Number

If your registration is successful, SARS will generate your tax number.

You will receive it through:

Your SARS eFiling profile
Email confirmation
SMS notification

Your tax number will now be linked to your eFiling account.

How to Get a Tax Number at a SARS Branch

If you prefer in-person assistance, you can visit a SARS branch office.

Steps to Register at a SARS Office

Book an appointment online.
Bring required documents.
Complete the tax registration form.
Submit your documents to a SARS consultant.

Once your application is processed, you will receive your tax number.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Tax Number?

Tax registration is usually fast if all information is correct.

Typical Processing Times

Method	Estimated Time
Online via eFiling	Same day or within 24 hours
SARS branch registration	Same day
Employer registration	Within a few days

Delays may occur if documents cannot be verified.

Useful links

How to Find Your Tax Number If You Lost It

Many people lose or forget their tax number.

Fortunately, it can easily be recovered.

Ways to Retrieve Your Tax Number

You can find your tax number through:

SARS eFiling account
Previous tax returns
IRP5 form from employer
SARS call centre
Visiting a SARS branch

Employers also often keep tax numbers on payroll records.

How to Register for SARS eFiling After Getting a Tax Number

Even if your employer registered you for tax, you should activate your SARS eFiling account.

Benefits of eFiling

With eFiling you can:

Submit tax returns online
Check refund status
Update banking details
View tax assessments
Communicate with SARS

eFiling has become the primary platform for tax management in South Africa.

Common Mistakes When Registering for a Tax Number

Avoiding common mistakes will ensure a smooth registration process.

Frequent Errors

Incorrect ID numbers
Outdated proof of address
Wrong contact details
Duplicate tax registrations
Incorrect bank information

Always double-check your information before submitting.

What Happens After You Get a Tax Number?

After receiving your tax number, you officially become a registered taxpayer.

You may be required to:

Submit annual tax returns
Declare additional income
Update your tax profile
Keep financial records

Not all taxpayers must file returns every year, but it is important to check SARS requirements.

Do Students Need a Tax Number?

Students usually do not need a tax number unless they earn income.

However, students should register if they:

Work part-time
Receive taxable income
Start a small business

Early tax registration can make financial management easier later.

Can Foreigners Get a Tax Number in South Africa?

Yes, foreign nationals working in South Africa can obtain tax numbers.

They must provide:

Passport
Work permit
Proof of employment

Foreign taxpayers must still comply with South African tax regulations.

Tips for Managing Your Tax Number Safely

Once you receive your tax number, protect it carefully.

Best Practices

Store it in a secure location
Do not share it unnecessarily
Keep copies of tax documents
Update your contact details with SARS
Monitor your tax profile regularly

Protecting your tax information helps prevent fraud or identity theft.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it free to get a tax number in South Africa?

Yes. Registering for a tax number through SARS is completely free.

2. Can I get a tax number without a job?

Yes. You can voluntarily register as a taxpayer even if you are not currently employed.

3. How many digits is a SARS tax number?

A SARS tax number usually contains 10 digits.

4. Do I need a tax number to start a business?

Yes. Business owners must have tax registration to comply with SARS requirements.

5. Can I have more than one tax number?

No. Each taxpayer should have only one tax number. If duplicates occur, SARS must merge them.

Final Thoughts

Getting a tax number in South Africa is one of the first steps toward financial and legal compliance. Whether you are starting your first job, launching a business, or earning freelance income, registering with SARS ensures you can manage your taxes properly.

The easiest way to obtain your tax number is through the SARS eFiling platform, which allows you to register quickly and manage your tax affairs online. However, SARS branches are also available for those who prefer in-person assistance.

By registering for tax early and keeping your information updated, you can avoid penalties, access refunds when applicable, and maintain a clean tax record with SARS.