South Africa’s tax authority has expanded its communication strategy and is now contacting taxpayers directly through WhatsApp as part of efforts to recover outstanding tax debt.
Digital communication replaces traditional methods
In the past, SARS primarily communicated with taxpayers through letters and email.
However, the revenue authority is now using instant messaging platforms to ensure that taxpayers do not miss important notifications.
Massive tax debt driving stronger enforcement
South Africa’s outstanding tax debt has reached 646 billion rand.
Experts warn that ignoring messages from SARS could lead to enforcement action, especially after the authority issues a Letter of Final Demand.
