Delays and confusion

I submitted 1 July, immediately asked for docs, sent them through, then on 12 July asked for more docs, sent them through and since then no communication from SARS. Received an SOA indicating the refund amount a transaction reference and the date being 1 August. That's today but no completion letter. Have phoned several times and all they say is it's still in progress. No new notes or requirements. What is the meaning of all this?

SARS have 21 days to complete an audit, since you only submitted on 12 July they still have a few days to complete the audit. Let us know if you have not received your refund by Wednesday.

Please explain the meaning of the refund advice on the ITSA, states 1 Aug, transaction reference number and the amount?

If you are due a refund - so the amount must be in negative, then you can ignore that.

It is a negative and that appears to be a payment reference number. The first has passed, why put it there if it's to be ignored?

The dates are only if you owe SARS and have to pay in. SARS, unfortunately does not communicate this clearly enough on their documents. You can call 0800 00 7277 to find out why you have not received your refund yet.

Right! They definitely don't communicate well. I have called. Is there anything you can do from your side to help me?

Ps, thanks for the quick feedback.

What was their response, we have written a blog about why taxpayers haven't received their tax refund yet.