How to Retrieve Your Tax Number from the SA Revenue Service

Losing or forgetting your tax number can be a common concern, but the South African Revenue Service (Sa Revenue Service) has streamlined the process of retrieving it, ensuring taxpayers can easily access this crucial information. Whether you need it for eFiling, employer submissions, or any tax-related matter, accessing your tax number is now simpler than ever, thanks to the various digital channels provided by the SA Revenue Service. This guide will walk you through the different methods available to quickly and securely retrieve your SA Revenue Service tax number.

Multiple Channels to Retrieve Your Tax Number

The SA Revenue Service offers several convenient options to retrieve your tax number, catering to different preferences and levels of tech-savviness. You no longer need to visit a physical branch; most methods can be completed from the comfort of your home or on the go.

SA Revenue Service WhatsApp Channel

One of the easiest methods is using the SA Revenue Service WhatsApp channel. This instant messaging service allows for quick interaction and retrieval of your tax number directly on your phone.

Steps to retrieve your tax number via WhatsApp:

1. Save the number: Add the SA Revenue Service WhatsApp number 0800 11 7277 to your phone contacts.
2. Initiate chat: Open WhatsApp and find the saved SA Revenue Service contact. Send a greeting message to start the conversation.
3. Access menu: Select the ‘tax service’ menu option to view the list of available services.
4. Select Tax Reference Number: Tap on the ‘Tax Reference number’ option from the menu.
5. Authentication: Provide the requested demographic information for security and verification purposes.
6. Submit ID: Text and send your South African ID number or Passport number as requested.
7. Retrieve IT150: Your tax reference number will be sent to your registered email address in the official Notice of Registration (IT150) document.

SA Revenue Service SMS Channel

For those who prefer SMS, the SA Revenue Service provides a dedicated SMS channel to request your tax number. This is a straightforward method requiring a simple text message.

Steps to retrieve your tax number via SMS:

1. Compose SMS: Open your SMS application on your mobile device.
2. Text SARS: Type the following message: TRN (Space) ID number/Passport number/ Asylum Seeker number.
3. Send to 47277: Send the SMS to the SA Revenue Service number 47277.
4. Receive Instructions: Follow the instructions sent back via SMS to receive your tax number or the Notice of Registration.

SA Revenue Service USSD Channel

The SA Revenue Service USSD channel offers another mobile-based option, particularly useful for users without consistent internet access. USSD codes work on all mobile phones and are generally free of charge.

Steps to retrieve your tax number via USSD:

1. Dial USSD code: On your mobile device, dial *134*7277#.
2. Select Service: Choose the relevant service option from the menu displayed (usually indicated by numbers).
3. Taxpayer Verification: Select the option for Taxpayer Verification. You will be prompted to enter your ID, Passport, or Asylum Seeker number.
4. Tax Resolution: Upon successful verification by the SA Revenue Service, your tax reference number or instructions to obtain it will be displayed on your phone screen.

SA Revenue Service MobiApp and eFiling

If you are a registered eFiler, the SA Revenue Service MobiApp and eFiling platforms provide direct access to your Notice of Registration (IT150), which contains your tax number.

Steps to retrieve your tax number via MobiApp or eFiling:

1. Login: Access the SA Revenue Service MobiApp or the eFiling website (https://secure.sarsefiling.co.za/app/login) and log in using your eFiling credentials.
2. Navigate to SARS Registered Details: Once logged in, navigate to the ‘SARS Registered Details’ menu option.
3. Request Notice of Registration (IT150): Look for the option to request or view your Notice of Registration (IT150). This document will be available for download or viewing and contains your tax reference number.

Lwazi ChatBot

The SA Revenue Service also provides an AI-powered ChatBot named Lwazi, available on both eFiling and the MobiApp, to assist with various queries, including retrieving your tax number.

Steps to retrieve your tax number via Lwazi ChatBot:

1. Access ChatBot: On eFiling or the SARS MobiApp, click on the ChatBot icon to open Lwazi.
2. Type “menu”: In the chat window, type “menu” and send.
3. Personal Income Tax Services: Lwazi will present a list of Personal Income Tax service offerings.
4. Select Option 1: Choose option ‘1’ or respond by typing “1” to select ‘Request Tax Reference number’.
5. Authentication: Lwazi will prompt you to authenticate your information by asking for your ID/Passport number and your registered cell phone number or email address.
6. Verification and IT150: Upon successful verification by the SA Revenue Service, a confirmation message will appear, and your Notice of Registration (IT150) will be emailed to your registered email address.

Important Considerations

It’s important to note that for security reasons, the SA Revenue Service will only provide your tax number directly to you. The only exceptions are for your registered tax practitioner or someone holding power of attorney to manage your tax affairs. Always ensure you are using official SA Revenue Service channels to protect your personal information and avoid potential scams.

Need help? If you require visual assistance, the SA Revenue Service has created helpful video tutorials available on their YouTube channel. You can watch a tutorial on obtaining proof of your Income Tax number and another specifically for using the SMS service by clicking on the image below.

By utilizing these digital tools offered by the SA Revenue Service, retrieving your tax number has become an efficient and user-friendly process, saving you time and ensuring you have quick access to your essential tax information.