SARS eFiling Common Errors (Fixes)
Encountering errors on SARS eFiling can be frustrating, but most issues have straightforward solutions. Understanding common errors and how to fix them helps you use eFiling effectively. This comprehensive guide covers the most common eFiling errors and their solutions.
Common Login Errors
Cannot Log In
Error:
- Wrong username or password
- Account locked
- System issues
- Browser problems
Fixes:
- Verify credentials
- Reset password if needed
- Check caps lock
- Try different browser
- Clear cache and cookies
- Contact SARS if persists
Account Locked
Error:
- Too many failed login attempts
- Security lock
- Account suspended
Fixes:
- Wait for unlock period
- Reset password
- Contact SARS
- Verify account status
- Follow unlock instructions
Password Reset Issues
Error:
- Reset link not received
- Link expired
- Email not found
Fixes:
- Check spam folder
- Verify email address
- Request new reset
- Contact SARS
- Verify email on account
Submission Errors
Return Won't Submit
Error:
- Validation errors
- Missing information
- System error
- Timeout
Fixes:
- Check all required fields
- Fix validation errors
- Complete all sections
- Save and try again
- Check internet connection
- Try different time
Validation Errors
Error:
- Incorrect format
- Missing required fields
- Invalid values
- Calculation errors
Fixes:
- Review error messages
- Fix indicated fields
- Verify formats
- Check calculations
- Complete all required fields
- Re-validate
Submission Timeout
Error:
- Process takes too long
- Connection lost
- System timeout
Fixes:
- Check internet connection
- Try again
- Save work frequently
- Submit during off-peak
- Contact SARS if persists
Calculation Errors
Incorrect Calculations
Error:
- Tax calculated wrong
- Amounts don't match
- Calculation errors
Fixes:
- Verify all amounts entered
- Check income totals
- Verify deductions
- Review calculations
- Use eFiling calculator
- Query if incorrect
Missing Calculations
Error:
- Calculations not showing
- Amounts blank
- System not calculating
Fixes:
- Complete all required fields
- Save and refresh
- Re-enter information
- Check for errors
- Try different browser
- Contact SARS
Document Errors
Cannot Upload Documents
Error:
- File too large
- Wrong format
- Upload failed
- System error
Fixes:
- Check file size limits
- Use correct format (PDF, JPG)
- Compress if needed
- Try smaller file
- Check internet connection
- Try again
Documents Not Attaching
Error:
- Files not attaching
- Upload incomplete
- System error
Fixes:
- Verify file format
- Check file size
- Try different file
- Clear cache
- Try different browser
- Contact SARS
Payment Errors
Payment Failed
Error:
- Payment not processed
- Transaction failed
- Bank error
- System error
Fixes:
- Verify payment method
- Check account details
- Ensure sufficient funds
- Try again
- Use different method
- Contact bank
- Contact SARS
Payment Not Reflecting
Error:
- Payment made but not showing
- Delayed processing
- System update needed
Fixes:
- Wait a few hours
- Check bank statement
- Verify reference number
- Contact SARS with proof
- Follow up if needed
Profile Update Errors
Cannot Update Details
Error:
- Update not saving
- Verification failed
- System error
Fixes:
- Complete all fields
- Verify information
- Check formats
- Complete verification
- Try again
- Contact SARS
Verification Issues
Error:
- Email not verified
- SMS not received
- Verification failed
Fixes:
- Check spam folder
- Verify contact details
- Request new verification
- Check phone number
- Try again
- Contact SARS
Browser Issues
Compatibility Problems
Error:
- Features not working
- Display issues
- Functionality problems
Fixes:
- Use supported browser
- Update browser
- Clear cache and cookies
- Disable extensions
- Try different browser
- Check system requirements
Performance Issues
Error:
- Slow loading
- Timeouts
- Freezing
Fixes:
- Check internet connection
- Close other tabs
- Clear cache
- Update browser
- Try different browser
- Check system resources
General Troubleshooting
System Maintenance
If Site Down:
- Check SARS website
- Wait for maintenance
- Try again later
- Check social media
- Contact SARS
Technical Issues
General Fixes:
- Clear browser cache
- Update browser
- Check internet
- Try different device
- Disable VPN
- Contact SARS
Best Practices
Prevent Errors
Tips:
- Use supported browsers
- Keep browser updated
- Stable internet connection
- Save work frequently
- Complete all fields
- Verify information
When Errors Occur
Steps:
- Note error message
- Try basic fixes
- Check SARS website
- Contact support
- Keep reference numbers
Getting Help
SARS Support
Contact Methods:
- Call centre: 0800 00 7277
- eFiling help section
- SARS website
- Branch visit
Information to Have:
- Error message
- What you were doing
- Reference numbers
- Account details
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I log in to eFiling?
Check your username and password, ensure caps lock is off, try resetting password, or contact SARS if issues persist.
What if my return won't submit?
Check for validation errors, complete all required fields, verify all information, and try again. Contact SARS if problems continue.
How do I fix calculation errors?
Verify all amounts entered, check income and deduction totals, review calculations, and query if eFiling calculations seem incorrect.
What if I can't upload documents?
Check file size and format, ensure you're using supported formats (PDF, JPG), compress files if needed, and try again.
Why is eFiling so slow?
Check your internet connection, try during off-peak times, clear browser cache, or try a different browser.
Conclusion
Most eFiling errors have simple solutions. By understanding common errors, trying basic fixes, and knowing when to contact support, you can resolve most issues quickly. Remember to save your work frequently, verify information before submitting, and keep reference numbers for support queries.
For persistent issues or if you need assistance, contact SARS support directly or visit a branch for help.
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