A SARS tax number is essential for employment, opening certain financial accounts, applying for loans, and complying with South African tax laws. If you are already registered with SARS but can’t remember your tax number, there are several quick and secure ways to retrieve it using your cellphone or online services.
SARS allows taxpayers to obtain or confirm their tax number via WhatsApp, SMS, USSD, and online platforms, provided their personal details are already registered and up to date.
Get Your SARS Tax Number via WhatsApp
SARS offers an official WhatsApp chatbot that allows taxpayers to retrieve their tax reference number safely.
Steps to Follow:
- Save 0800 11 7277 on your phone and name the contact “SARS”
- Open WhatsApp and send a message such as “Hi” or “Hello”
- From the menu, select Tax Services
- Choose Tax Reference Number
- Follow the prompts by entering your:
- South African ID number
- Passport number
- or Asylum Seeker number
- Once verified, SARS will send your tax number directly on WhatsApp
This option is ideal for users who prefer a guided, step-by-step process.
Official SARS contact details:
https://www.sars.gov.za/contact-us
Get Your SARS Tax Number via SMS
If you prefer a faster, text-based option, SARS allows taxpayers to retrieve their tax number via SMS.
How It Works:
- Send an SMS to 47277
- Type the message in the following format:
TRN [space] Your ID / Passport / Asylum number
Example:TRN 8001015009087
SARS will reply with your tax reference number if your details are already registered on their system.
⚠️ Standard SMS rates apply
Get Your SARS Tax Number Using USSD
For users without internet access, SARS provides a USSD option that works on any mobile phone.
Steps:
- Dial *134*7277#
- Select Tax Services
- Follow the prompts to verify your identity
- Your tax number will be displayed on screen if verification is successful
This method is useful in areas with limited data connectivity.
Retrieve Your Tax Number Online (eFiling & SOQS)
SARS eFiling
If you are registered for eFiling, you can retrieve your tax number by logging into your profile and downloading your Notice of Registration (IT150).
eFiling login:
https://www.sarsefiling.co.za
SARS Online Query System (SOQS)
You can also use the SARS Online Query System to submit a request for assistance if you experience issues retrieving your tax number.
SOQS platform:
https://www.sars.gov.za/online-services/sars-online-query-system-soqs
Important Things to Know
- Your cellphone number must be updated on the SARS system for WhatsApp, SMS, or USSD services to work
- These services can be used to:
- Retrieve an existing tax number
- Confirm whether you are already registered with SARS
- If your details do not match SARS records, you may be required to visit a SARS branch for identity verification
- SARS does not charge for issuing or confirming a tax number
What If You’re Not Registered for Tax?
If you have never been registered for tax, you will need to complete the registration process via:
- SARS eFiling, or
- A SARS branch appointment
Tax registration details are available here:
https://www.sars.gov.za/types-of-tax/personal-income-tax/register-for-income-tax
Final Tip
Always keep your contact details updated with SARS to avoid delays when using digital services. This includes your cellphone number, email address, and physical address.