SARS Timelines for the New Diesel Refund System

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If you or your clients claim diesel refunds, there are big changes you need to know about. SARS is rolling out a modernised Diesel Refund System aimed at streamlining compliance, boosting transparency, and separating the process from VAT. From April 2026, all qualifying users and sellers must register on a new eFiling platform to claim refunds. A pilot phase begins in January 2026 for selected traders.

What’s changing?

✅ Diesel refunds will now be handled separately from VAT
✅ All sellers must be registered to improve supply chain compliance
✅ You’ll get real-time status updates on your refund claims
✅ The system will include automated validations to cut down on delays.

Why it matters

According to SARS and PwC, this shift solves long-standing issues with logbook compliance, small-producer access, and administrative complexity. It also paves the way for a more data-driven, digital future for excise-related refunds.

What you should do now

• Review whether you or your clients qualify for the diesel refund scheme.

• Prepare to register by April 2026 on SARS eFiling

• Watch this space for further SARS information sessions, guides and updates.

Read more in the SARS letter here.