Pretoria - The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has warned small business owners against scam artists preying on small businesses.
“The South African Revenue Service has noted a few incidents of scam artists that pretend to be representatives from SARS that have approached unsuspecting small business enterprises to demand ‘outstanding payments’ on undeclared taxes.
Over the last few months, there has been a few incidents that have been reported to SARS of scam artists that have demanded money to wipe off debts,” said the revenue service on Monday.
Taxpayers and traders with outstanding accounts are called on to directly resolve the matter with SARS.
“Those with queries are encouraged to contact the SARS Contact Centre at 0800 00 7277 (0800 00 SARS) to validate their status for SARS to engage them. Also, tax payers should report any suspicious activity at our Anti-Corruption and Fraud Hotline at 0800 00 2870 toll free.”
All outstanding tax, VAT or duties must only be deposited directly into SARS bank accounts.
“No money should be paid over to debt collectors or self-proclaimed SARS officials. In fact, collectors who want money to be handed over to them must be immediately reported.
“SARS invites all taxpayers and small business enterprises to contact the SARS offices to settle their dues and submit their returns from 1 July 2016. This will avoid prosecution,” explained the revenue service.
In addition, the revenue service thanked the small business community for paying their taxes. – SAnews.gov.za
