When it comes to managing your taxes in South Africa, choosing between the SARS MobiApp and the SARS eFiling platform depends largely on your personal preferences, the complexity of your tax affairs, and the type of device you prefer to use. Both platforms are designed to offer South African taxpayers a digital interface with the South African Revenue Service (SARS), providing convenient and secure access to a range of services.
However, they are built for different user needs. Let’s dive into the details of both options, compare their features, and help you determine which one suits your needs best.
SARS MobiApp: The Mobile Solution
The SARS MobiApp is an excellent choice for individuals who need a simple, quick solution for managing personal income tax. If you’re someone who prefers to handle your tax affairs on-the-go, this app might be just what you need.
Best for:
Individuals managing personal income tax
Taxpayers who prefer mobile devices for ease of access
Key Features:
Tax Return Submissions: You can complete, save, and submit your Income Tax Return (ITR12) directly from your smartphone or tablet.
Registration and Profile Management: You can register for eFiling, reset your username or password, and even update your personal details.
Document Uploads & Payments: The app allows you to upload supporting documents, make payments, and request callbacks from SARS directly from your mobile device.
Real-Time Updates: With new features such as “My Auto Assessment Status” and a “Tax Return Status Dashboard,” you get real-time updates on your tax return progress, ensuring you are always in the loop.
Biometric Security: The app supports biometric authentication, including Face ID or fingerprint, providing secure access with minimal effort.
The app is designed for taxpayers who need quick access to essential tax services. It’s a highly convenient platform if you only need to manage basic tax affairs such as submitting personal income tax returns and checking on the status of your returns.
Limitations:
It is limited when it comes to handling complex tax matters or managing multiple tax types.
The app is only available on smartphones and tablets (iOS, Android, Huawei), so it requires access to a compatible device and a stable internet connection.
SARS eFiling: The Comprehensive Web Platform
On the other hand, SARS eFiling offers a more detailed and full-featured platform. It is best suited for businesses, practitioners, and individuals with more complex tax needs.
Best for:
Business tax returns (e.g., VAT, CIT, PAYE, Trusts)
Taxpayers who need a full range of services such as tax compliance, disputes, and document management
Those who prefer working on desktops or laptops with larger screens
Key Features:
Broad Tax Filing Options: eFiling enables you to submit returns for a wide range of taxes including VAT, CIT, PAYE, and Trusts, alongside personal income tax.
Comprehensive Tax History: You can access a detailed history of your submissions, payments, and correspondence with SARS.
Notifications and Reminders: You can receive notifications directly in your inbox, along with email and SMS reminders about your submissions or outstanding actions.
Error Reduction Tools: Pre-populated fields and pop-up warnings help reduce common filing errors and speed up the filing process.
Advanced Services: eFiling allows for managing complex tax affairs, including disputes, compliance status, and accessing detailed reports.
Enhanced Security: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection to your account, while biometric facial recognition is available for new registrations.
eFiling is ideal for those dealing with complex tax affairs such as business taxes or multiple types of tax submissions. It provides a comprehensive history of your tax affairs, and advanced services such as lodging disputes or checking your compliance status are all easily accessible.
Limitations:
The platform may feel less convenient for those who prefer mobile apps or need to file quickly on the go.
Some advanced features, like push notifications, require integration with the SARS MobiApp for full functionality.
A Comparison of the Two Platforms
| Feature/Service | SARS MobiApp | SARS eFiling (Web) |
|---|---|---|
| Device | Mobile (iOS, Android, Huawei) | Desktop/Laptop (Web browser) |
| Personal Income Tax Returns | Yes | Yes |
| Business Tax Returns | Limited/No support | Yes |
| Document Uploads | Yes | Yes |
| Tax Calculators | Yes | Yes |
| Biometric Authentication | Yes (Face ID, Fingerprint) | Yes (Facial recognition for registration) |
| Two-Factor Authentication | Yes | Yes |
| Notifications | In-app, push notifications | Email, SMS, inbox |
| Advanced Services | Limited | Comprehensive |
| User Experience | Optimized for mobile, simple | More detailed, full-featured |
Which One Should You Use?
Choose the SARS MobiApp if:
You primarily handle personal income tax and prefer a mobile-friendly platform.
You value convenience and quick, easy access to SARS services, with real-time updates.
You don’t need to manage complex tax matters or multiple tax types (e.g., VAT, CIT).
The MobiApp is ideal for individuals who need quick access to essential tax services without the need for intricate or advanced features. If you’re someone who prefers the flexibility of managing your taxes on your mobile phone or tablet, this platform will likely suit your needs.
Choose SARS eFiling (Web) if:
You need to manage business tax types like VAT, CIT, or PAYE, or deal with complex tax situations such as tax disputes.
You prefer working on a larger screen and require a full suite of services, such as detailed reports, compliance status, and advanced error-reduction tools.
You need to file multiple types of taxes and manage extensive tax documentation.
eFiling is the more comprehensive platform, suitable for businesses or individuals who need a full range of tax services and tools to handle more complex tax requirements. It’s the best option if you need to file multiple returns or manage extensive tax documentation.
Check also: How to Check Your SARS Tax Refund Status Online
For straightforward, personal tax needs, and if you value mobile convenience, the SARS MobiApp is your best option. However, if your tax affairs are more complex or involve business taxes, the SARS eFiling platform provides a wider array of features and greater functionality. Many taxpayers find it beneficial to use both: register and manage your profile on eFiling and then use the MobiApp for quick access or approval of security prompts.
In summary, choose the platform that best matches the complexity of your tax needs and the device you prefer to use.
