The South Revenue Service (SARS) has noted with ‘’deep concern’’ the alarming spread of COVID19 infections because of a second wave that has enveloped our country.
The tax-collecting agency has decided to put
preventative restrictions in place, by closing their branches from Thursday, 24
December 2020 until Monday, 4 January 2021.
‘’This two-week period of the physical lockdown
of offices is SARS’ contribution to curb any further possible spread of
COVID-19 infections among taxpayers and our staff,’’ it said in a statement.
‘’However, in line with SARS’s mandate to
service all members of the public, all offices will operate remotely via our
digital channels. Branches will also engage with taxpayers via the use of virtual
meetings using Microsoft Teams. No member of the public will unfortunately be
allowed at any SARS branch from 24 December 2020 to 4 January 2021.’’ It added.
·
Branch appointments can only
be made via the SARS website
·
All new bookings via the SARS
site will be honoured via a virtual engagement (Microsoft Teams or a telephonic
engagement)
·
The SARS Contact Centre will
continue to service any queries from members of the public.
·
All South African borders
manned by SARS customs officials will continue to operate during this lockdown
period. Please note that strict social distance measures will apply and it will
be compulsory for members of the public to wear masks when entering any SARS
building or engaging with any customs officials. The sanitising of hands is
also compulsory. No access will be allowed without complying with these
protocols.
SARS appealed to South Africans to adhere to
COVID-19 protocols.
‘’These measures are being untaken with the
wellbeing of SARS employees and all South African citizens in mind and we
appeal to each taxpayer to take this call to adherence very seriously. With the
co-operation of each citizen, we will be able to overcome this pandemic.’’
Done By: Mitchum George
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