Documents SARS Accepts as Proof of Address
Navigating the requirements of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) can be daunting for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. One such important requirement is providing proof of address when engaging with SARS. This blog outlines what constitutes valid proof of address to ensure smooth and compliant interactions.
Why Is Proof of Address Important?
SARS requires proof of address for various reasons, such as verifying your business premises or validating your personal residential address. Accurate address information helps SARS maintain up-to-date records, deliver correspondence efficiently, and prevent fraudulent activities. Compliance with these requirements is essential to avoid delays or complications in your dealings with SARS.
Accepted Documents for Proof of Address
SARS considers a variety of documents as satisfactory proof of address, provided they clearly indicate your name and your residential or business address. Here are some of the commonly accepted documents:
Utility Bills
- Electricity Bill: Issued within the last three months, showing usage at your residential or business address.
- Water Bill: Similarly, must be recent and show consumption at your address.
Bank Statements
- A recent bank statement, credit card statement, or mortgage statement that includes your name and address.
Municipal Rates and Taxes Invoice
- A recent rates and taxes invoice from your local municipality displaying your address.
Lease or Rental Agreement
- A valid rental or lease agreement that is current and includes both parties' names and the property address.
Telecommunications Account
- A recent statement from service providers for landline, cellphone, or internet services indicating your address.
South African Revenue Service Documents
- Any recent official correspondence from SARS addressed to your registered address.
Insurance Policy Documents
- Statements or policy documents from your insurance provider indicating your residential or business address.
Security Services Bill
- A recent invoice from a security company providing services to your property.
Affidavit
- In the absence of the above documents, an affidavit confirming your address, signed before a Commissioner of Oaths, may be accepted.
Employer's Letter
- If you reside in staff housing, a letter from your employer confirming your residence at a specified address.
Tips for Submitting Proof of Address
- Ensure Legibility: Ensure that the document is clear, readable, and not tampered with. Illegible or altered documents will not be accepted.
- Use Recent Documents: The document must be recent—generally within three months of submission—to be considered valid.
- Name Consistency: The name on the document must match your registered name with SARS. In case of discrepancies, supporting documents explaining the difference may be required, such as a marriage certificate or legal name change document.
- Full Address: The document should include the full address, including unit or apartment numbers, if applicable.