The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has confirmed an investigation into its systems by the Office of the Tax Ombudsman.<\/p>\n
“The South African Revenue Service can confirm that the Deputy Minister of Finance, Mcebisi Jonas, has informed SARS that permission has been granted to the Office of the Tax Ombud to investigate SARS systems,” SARS said in a statement.<\/p>\n
“The Office of the Tax Ombud and the Ministry of Finance can be assured of full cooperation from SARS during the investigation. It is in the interest of SARS and the public to finally find closure and finality to this issue,” it said.<\/p>\n
While the revenue service said it fully supports the investigation, it noted that it was confident that the results of this investigation would\u00a0provide the South African public with the requisite confidence in SARS’ systems.<\/p>\n
“SARS is determined to ensure that our systems and processes simplify the process of meeting one’s tax obligations. Much of the current taxpayer complaints pertain to VAT refunds.<\/p>\n
“It must be highlighted that SARS has an obligation to ensure both service and compliance, which includes complying with the legislation and ensuring that all incorrect activities are managed correctly, which could include fraud,” said the revenue service.<\/p>\n