How do I close my tax account?

By Marc Sevitz · Updated 9 July 2014

I am a provisional taxpayer. I used to have my own business. I am no longer employed and I am leaving the country in December. I am wanting to know what the procedure is to follow in closing my tax account. Do I need to get a tax clearance?

TaxTim Marc said:
9 July 2014 at 18:13

You don't ever really close your tax number, it will just become inactive and should you come back to South Africa you can reactivate it.

Chalky said:
10 July 2014 at 9:31

I was really wanting to find out if there is a procedure I need to follow in getting a tax clearance before I leave the country. Do I actually need a tax clearance?????
I am flying out on a one-way ticket and I need to know that I won't be stopped and questioned about my tax when I go through passport control because I haven't followed the correct procedure???????

TaxTim Marc said:
10 July 2014 at 19:04

You do not need a tax clearance when leaving South Africa if you are a South African citizen, this is only if you are formally emigrated and if so the lawyers will do this for you. Otherwise you can call 0800 00 7277 and inform SARS that you are leaving and have no intention of coming back.

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