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The South African Revenue Service (SARS) says it has ‘noted with deep concern’ the alarming spread of Covid-19 infections due to a second wave engulfing South Africa
Taking into account the transmission risk posed by Covid-19, SARS said it has decided to implement preventive restrictions.
“Therefore, we wish to inform members of the public that all SARS offices will be closed from Thursday 24 December 2020 until Monday, January 4, 2021,” He said.
“This two-week period of physical office closures is SARS’s contribution to curbing any possible spread of Covid-19 infections among taxpayers and our staff.”
However, in keeping with the SARS mandate to serve all members of the public, the revenue collector said that all offices will operate remotely through our digital channels.
Branches will also engage with contributors through the use of virtual meetings using Microsoft Teams, he said. “Unfortunately, no member of the public will be able to enter any SARS branch from December 24, 2020 to January 4, 2021.”
As part of SARS’s commitment to all members of the public, he made the following points:
- All existing branch appointments will be honored;
- All new reservations through the SARS site will be accepted through a virtual commitment (Microsoft Teams or a telephone commitment);
- The SARS Contact Center will continue to answer any inquiries from members of the public;
- All South African borders served by SARS customs officials will continue to operate during this lockdown period. Please note that strict social distance measures will be enforced and it will be mandatory for members of the public to wear masks when entering any SARS building or interacting with customs officials. Hand hygiene is also mandatory. Access will not be allowed without complying with these protocols.
“These measures are not being taken with the well-being of SARS employees and all South African citizens in mind and we call on every taxpayer to take this call for membership very seriously. With the cooperation of every citizen, we can overcome this pandemic.
“We will review this decision and communicate in advance if we decide to extend this agreement. We thank the contributors for their cooperation and understanding as we navigate through this challenging period.
“We wish all citizens a joyous and safe holiday period, and ask them to act responsibly during this difficult time.”
Read: This is when South African workers are entitled to a check number 13
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