How to Get Your SARS Tax Number (Fast Options for 2026)

Last Updated: September 2026 | Reading Time: 7 minutes

Your income tax reference number unlocks everything – eFiling, your IRP5 check, refunds. Here is every way to retrieve it or register for the first time, ranked from fastest to slowest.

South African ID book and documents needed to get a SARS tax number

Quick Answer

To get your SARS tax number: fastest is the SARS MobiApp or eFiling ‘What’s My Tax Number?’ feature with your ID and registered cellphone; alternatively SMS/WhatsApp 0800 11 7277, dial *134*7277#, call 0800 00 7277, or visit a branch with your ID. Never registered? You get a tax number when you first register on eFiling.

Retrieve an Existing Tax Number

Option 1: eFiling (fastest)

On the eFiling login page choose ‘What’s My Tax Number?’, enter your ID number, name, surname and registered cellphone or email. SARS sends the number by SMS or email within minutes.

Option 2: SARS MobiApp

Download the MobiApp, register with your ID, and your tax reference number displays on your profile.

Option 3: WhatsApp or USSD

Save the SARS WhatsApp number 0800 11 7277 and follow the menu, or dial *134*7277# and select the tax number option – both work without airtime data on most networks.

Option 4: Call or visit

Call the SARS contact centre on 0800 00 7277 (have your ID ready), or visit a branch with your ID – book an appointment online first via the SARS contact page.

Never Had a Tax Number?

You receive a tax reference number automatically when you register for income tax – the full process is in our guide how to register for tax with SARS. Registration happens on eFiling (IT77 replacement flow) with your ID, proof of address and bank details, and the number is issued within days.

Where You Will Need It

Registering and logging in to SARS eFiling
Checking your IRP5 and filing your ITR12
Applying for a Tax Compliance Status PIN for tenders or emigration
Any SARS branch visit, call or dispute

Tip: your tax number never changes. Save it in your phone, email it to yourself, and keep it with your ID copy – you will need it every single tax season.

Important: this is not a free service. TaxSeason2026.online is the website of Admin Boss – Tax division, a private South African tax practice that assists individuals with the preparation and filing of their SARS tax returns for a professional fee. We are not SARS and we are not affiliated with SARS or any government body. SARS eFiling itself is a free government channel – our fee covers expert review, deduction optimisation and done-for-you filing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find my SARS tax number online?

Use the ‘What’s My Tax Number?’ function on the eFiling login page or the SARS MobiApp. Enter your ID number and registered contact details and SARS sends the number to your phone or email within minutes.

Is my tax number the same as my ID number?

No. Your income tax reference number is a separate 10-digit number issued by SARS when you register for tax. It stays with you for life and is different from your 13-digit ID number.

Can I get my tax number without going to a SARS branch?

Yes – eFiling, the MobiApp, WhatsApp (0800 11 7277), USSD (*134*7277#) and the call centre (0800 00 7277) all retrieve it remotely. A branch visit is only needed if your registered contact details are outdated.

Need Help?

Admin Boss – Tax division prepares and files personal income tax returns for clients across South Africa – 100% remote, no office visit needed. Contact us for a quote or call 074 918 7130 (Mon-Fri 08:00-16:00).

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