SARS Audit or Verification: What Documents Do I Need?
Short answer: SARS asks for the documents behind the claims on your return: IRP5s, medical and retirement annuity certificates, logbooks, invoices, slips and bank statements. Send exactly what the letter lists, by the date in the letter, through eFiling.
How it works
- Send a photo of the SARS letter on WhatsApp so it is kept with your records.
- Ask for what it lists, like "find the slip for the fridge" or "my bank statements".
- Download them and upload them to SARS on eFiling yourself, or give them to your practitioner.
Do it on WhatsApp
Once you are set up, just say: "show me my documents"
Frequently asked questions
Is verification the same as an audit?
Not quite. Verification checks specific items on a return; an audit is wider. Both ask you for supporting documents.
How long must I keep documents?
Generally five years from the date you submit the return. See keeping slips for SARS.
Do you deal with SARS for me?
No. We keep your documents ready to find. You or your tax practitioner respond to SARS.
Related
General information and estimates, not tax advice. OptiTax prepares and organises; you or your registered tax practitioner submit to SARS. Last checked 19/10/2026.