SARS Pays Back Record R450 Billion to South African Taxpayers

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced preliminary gross revenue collection of R2.3 trillion as of March, marking a 6.9% year-on-year growth. This achievement was revealed by SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter during a media briefing on Tuesday.

Record Tax Refunds for South Africans

In a significant boost for taxpayers, SARS reported paying out R447.7 billion in refunds – the highest amount in history and an 8.2% increase from the R414 billion disbursed last year. Preliminary net revenue results stood at R1.855 trillion.

‘Diligent Work’ Behind SARS Success

Commissioner Kieswetter attributed these results to the hard work of SARS’ 13,000 employees: “Net revenue of R1.855 trillion represents a R114 billion growth, exceeding our revised estimate by R8.8 billion. In the current environment, this is a very credible outcome.”

The Commissioner highlighted improved employee engagement as key to SARS’ performance, with engagement scores rising from 61.6% in 2019/20 to 71% currently. “These indicators speak about building an institution that can sustain its mandate with confidence,” he added.

SARS: A ‘National Treasure’

Kieswetter described SARS as essential to South Africa’s democracy: “Our higher purpose is enabling government to build a capable state that fosters economic growth and social development. Without SARS, our democracy would be unfunded. It’s a national treasure that belongs to all of us.”

Share Your Tax Experience

Did you receive a refund from SARS this year? Share your experience in the comments below or via WhatsApp at 060 011 021 1.

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