Individual tax returns

Questions to ask before someone submits a return in your name

Before hiring a tax practitioner to file your return, ask about their process, SARS registration, and what happens if queries arise. Know the red flags.

Letting someone file your tax return on your behalf is a delegation of trust and responsibility. SARS holds you accountable for every figure and claim that goes in, whether you or a practitioner prepared it. Before you hand over your documents and sign off, you need to know whether this person understands your situation, has thought through the details, and won't cut corners or make assumptions. The right questions early on prevent costly mistakes, missed deductions, and the awkward moment when SARS queries something you didn't know was in your return.

Questions that expose how they work

Start by asking how they'll build your return. A credible answer sounds like: "I'll sit down with you, go through your payslips, check your medical aid contributions, ask about rental income or side work, and identify any allowable deductions. Then I'll draft the return and walk you through it before submission so you understand every line." This shows they do their homework and involve you.

An evasive or rushed answer — "Just give me your IRP5 and I'll sort it" — should make you pause. They're not asking the right questions. Do you have rental income? Unregistered business earnings? Capital gains? Medical fund contributions? A practitioner who treats your return like a box-ticking exercise will miss things.

Next, ask what documents they need and when. A thorough list includes your IRP5, bank statements (especially if you have side income), proof of medical aid or medical expenses, rental documentation, investment statements, and records of any gifts or loans. If they ask for less, they're either confident in their process or they're being lazy. Ask them to spell out why each item matters — that tells you whether they're thinking or guessing.

Then ask: "If SARS queries something after you've filed, how does that work?" A proper answer acknowledges they'll either respond on your behalf (if you've given them authority) or advise you on how to reply. Avoid anyone who says "SARS hardly ever queries" or implies they know how to avoid audit. They don't.

Also ask whether they'll keep your return information for a set period. SARS requires documents to be retained for a certain time, and a practitioner should be clear about their record-keeping and who holds what after filing.

Red flags in their approach

Listen carefully for these warning signs. If they promise a refund before even reviewing your numbers, they're making assumptions. If they ask you to sign a blank return or one you haven't reviewed in detail, walk away — you're liable for what goes in. If they quote a flat fee without understanding your situation (multiple income sources, overseas income, complex deductions), they haven't scoped the work.

Ask directly: "Are you SARS-registered as a tax practitioner?" and ask them to provide their registration number so you can verify it independently. Anyone who hesitates or deflects isn't someone you want representing you to the tax authority.

Ask whether they carry professional indemnity insurance. This doesn't guarantee they won't make mistakes, but it means they've had their competence vetted and have a safety net if they get something seriously wrong.

Finally, ask what happens if you disagree with their approach. Can you discuss it? Will they explain their reasoning? A good practitioner welcomes pushback. One who gets defensive or shuts down conversation is signalling that they don't see your return as a collaboration.

The goal of these questions is not to interrogate them, but to get a clear picture of their process, their accountability, and their willingness to work with you transparently. You're not just hiring someone to file paperwork; you're asking them to stand behind numbers that have your name on them. When you're comparing practitioners on Strove, look for those who answer thoroughly and invite follow-up conversation. That's the foundation of a return you can trust.

Common questions

What's the one question I absolutely must ask before they file?: Ask to see their SARS registration number as a tax practitioner and verify it independently. You're giving them authority to act on your behalf with the tax authority, so confirm they're actually registered to do so.
What does it mean if a practitioner asks me to sign a blank return?: It means you shouldn't work with them. You are legally responsible for every figure and claim in your return, even if someone else prepared it. You must review and understand the completed return before signing.
If SARS queries my return after they've filed it, who responds?: That depends on the authority you give them. Ideally, ask upfront whether they'll handle SARS correspondence on your behalf or advise you to respond directly. Either way, you need clarity before filing so you're not caught off-guard.
Is professional indemnity insurance a requirement for tax practitioners?: Check whether your practitioner carries it — it's a sign of professional accountability, though requirements vary by their registration category. Ask them directly if they hold it and what it covers.

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More on Individual tax returns

Questions that expose how they work

Red flags in their approach

Common questions

What's the one question I absolutely must ask before they file?

Ask to see their SARS registration number as a tax practitioner and verify it independently. You're giving them authority to act on your behalf with the tax authority, so confirm they're actually registered to do so.

What does it mean if a practitioner asks me to sign a blank return?

It means you shouldn't work with them. You are legally responsible for every figure and claim in your return, even if someone else prepared it. You must review and understand the completed return before signing.

If SARS queries my return after they've filed it, who responds?

That depends on the authority you give them. Ideally, ask upfront whether they'll handle SARS correspondence on your behalf or advise you to respond directly. Either way, you need clarity before filing so you're not caught off-guard.

Is professional indemnity insurance a requirement for tax practitioners?

Check whether your practitioner carries it — it's a sign of professional accountability, though requirements vary by their registration category. Ask them directly if they hold it and what it covers.