Testing is open for the automated process of requesting Tax Directives

9 September 2022

SARS will introduce an automated process to request directives. The IBIR-006 Tax Directives Interface Specification document addresses the automated process for requesting directives while providing the facility to process manual requests. The relevant business rules are documented in the system specifications of the interfacing parties. The external organisations, such as insurance companies and pension funds, may submit files containing their requests for directives to the SARS system. The external organisation may:

1. Request a tax directive simulation
2. Request an actual tax directive
3. Query a request for a directive
4. Request to cancel a directive
5. Submit a Recognition of Transfer/GN18 Purchase

The trade testing dates are still to be confirmed and the implementation of the software is planned for implementation in December 2022. You will receive communication with regards to the exact dates for trade testing and the implementation date closer to the time.

The Tax Directives Interface Specification is available on the SARS website www.sars.gov.za  and you are encouraged to review it prior to testing.

Steps to submit test files:

Step 1: Before testing can commence, you will need to email 10 taxpayer reference numbers to ncts@sars.gov.za  to ensure the numbers are active.  In the email subject line, use “Tax reference numbers for Trade Testing”. A maximum of 10 taxpayer reference numbers will be allowed.

Step 2: You will be notified via the same email address to confirm when testing may commence.

For trade testing queries please email ncts@sars.gov.za You can find the IBIR-006 Tax Directives Interface Specification here.