Tax and SARS knowledge base
How do I upload supporting documents requested by SARS?
How do I upload supporting documents requested by SARS?
Last reviewed:
Direct answer
Use the upload link in the relevant official SARS eFiling work page or correspondence request. If the case uses the SARS Online Query System, or SOQS, complete that route with the case number, tax type and tax reference number. Upload all requested files, check that they succeeded and keep the confirmation before final submission.
Do not upload documents merely because they may be useful. Follow the actual SARS request. On eFiling, once the document group is finally submitted, SARS says you cannot add more files unless it issues a new request.
What this means in practice
The correct route depends on the case. For an individual return selected for verification or audit, the eFiling work page or correspondence may show a supporting-documents link or Upload button. SOQS has its own form and matching requirements.
The case number, tax type and tax reference number matter. A mismatch can lead SARS to ask for resubmission. Review the official letter first so you know which documents are requested, the relevant year and any response date.
Step-by-step
- Read the official SARS request.
Record the case number, taxpayer, tax type, year, requested evidence and response date. Do not assume a checklist for another case answers this request.
- Choose the route in the letter or work page.
Use the eFiling supporting-document link where SARS creates it for the return or correspondence. Use SOQS where the request directs you there, and enter the required case and taxpayer information accurately.
- Prepare only the requested evidence.
Match each record to the item SARS asks about. Ensure files are complete and readable. Keep the original evidence and a copy of every file selected for upload.
- Upload and check file status.
Upload the files individually or in the manner the service allows. Review the file name and success message. Correct technical problems before final submission.
- Submit only when the request is complete.
SARS says eFiling permits documents to be staged before the final submission. Do not select final submit until all requested files are present. After submission, the upload link may no longer be available unless SARS issues another request.
- Keep proof and monitor the case.
Save the confirmation, file list and case reference. SOQS sends an email about the received-document status. Watch official SARS correspondence for any follow-up.
Documents and records to keep
- Full official SARS request.
- Case number, tax type, tax reference number and tax year.
- Complete requested supporting records.
- Upload confirmation, file list and SOQS status email where applicable.
Important limits and exceptions
Do not proactively send unrelated documents where SARS has not requested them. An upload is a technical delivery step, not proof that the tax claim has been accepted.
Limits differ across eFiling, MobiApp and SOQS. Follow the standards for the channel named in your own case. If SARS says the case or tax number does not match, correct the identifiers and follow the resubmission instruction.
Keep a local copy of every uploaded file until SARS has finalised the case. A technical upload confirmation does not itself settle the question SARS asked.
When to get tailored advice
Get help if the request concerns a complex return position, you cannot link evidence to the requested entry, the response date is close, or the case is verification, audit, dispute or debt related.
TaxProof can help organise a clear evidence pack and file list. SARS determines whether the requested documents support the return or case.
Related TaxProof guides
- SARS verification, audit and tax debt
- What document formats and sizes does SARS accept for uploads? (B02-ADM-010)