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If it feels like SARS is becoming more precise and persistent, you’re right. We have entered the era of SARS 3.0 —a fundamental shift from traditional manual checking to a sophisticated, tech-driven enforcement model. Under Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, the revenue service has pivoted. They aren't just waiting for your return; they are actively hunting for discrepancies using a massive leap in data capabilities. Here is what this evolution means for your financial standing.

Many businesses only realise something is wrong when SARS delays a refund or sends a verification notice. In many cases the reason is that the VAT return has been flagged by SARS’s risk assessment systems . SARS uses automated systems and data matching to identify VAT returns that may require closer review. When a return is flagged it does not automatically mean there is wrongdoing. It simply means the return falls outside of what SARS considers normal patterns. Here are some

VAT, Tax and Your Business The 2026 Budget Speech delivered by Enoch Godongwana reinforces a clear fiscal strategy in South Africa: strengthen revenue collection, tighten compliance and stabilise public finances. For businesses and taxpayers, the focus is not on dramatic rate hikes but on enforcement, accountability and administrative reform. Here is what matters most. VAT VAT rate unchanged - The VAT rate remains at 15 percent. No increase was announced, providing stability