MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Representatives from the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) will discuss tax complaints with tax practitioners and businesses this coming Friday, 26 May, from 09:00 to 11:00 at the museum in George.

OTO acting CEO Gert van Heerden will engage stakeholders on the types of complaints they have against SARS and how the OTO can help resolve those complaints.

In addition, he will also unpack the dispute resolution process and guide attendees on how they can use the Tax Ombud to their advantage.

In the 2021/22 financial year, OTO’s intervention ensured SARS paid about R215 million to taxpayers in the top ten refund cases. SARS implemented 98% of the OTO’s non-binding recommendations in the same period.

Since its inception, the office has been committed to helping improve the South African tax administration system and provide a free and fair avenue for resolving taxpayers’ complaints against the SARS.

One of the most common complaints received by the Tax Ombud is the delay in paying tax refunds.

The services offered by the Tax Ombud are free and the office believes empowering stakeholders with knowledge about taxpayer rights and obligations when dealing with SARS will make a huge difference in promoting a fair tax administration.

Media, tax practitioners and businesses who wish to attend the stakeholder engagement session on Friday, 26 May, in George may confirm they will attend, by emailing communications@taxombud.gov.za.

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