Lunch Hour Conversation with the Tax Ombud

Date: Sep 8, 2026

CPD hours: 1 Hour

Time: 13:00 - 14:00

Event Type: Webinar

Learn how to navigate SARS complaints effectively, understand your taxpayer rights, use internal SARS remedies, and know when to escalate matters to the Office of the Tax Ombud. Gain practical insights into managing complaints and seeking fair, timely resolutions.

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Overview

Navigating tax-related challenges with SARS can often be complex and frustrating for taxpayers and tax practitioners alike. Understanding the appropriate channels for resolving complaints, knowing your rights, and recognising when a matter should be escalated are critical to achieving a fair and timely resolution.

This informative webinar will provide practical insights into South Africa's tax complaints framework and the role of the Office of the Tax Ombud in promoting fairness and accountability in tax administration. The session will explore the steps taxpayers should take when experiencing difficulties with SARS, the remedies available through SARS' internal complaint processes, and the circumstances under which complaints may be referred to the OTO.

Through a discussion of common taxpayer complaints, real-world considerations, and best-practice approaches to complaint management, attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how to navigate the complaints process effectively. This webinar is designed to equip taxpayers, accounting professionals, and tax practitioners with the knowledge and confidence to exercise their rights, engage constructively with SARS, and seek appropriate recourse when administrative issues remain unresolved.

Webinar content

1. Introduction to the Tax Complaints Process

Understanding the distinction between complaints, objections, appeals, and disputes
The importance of following the correct complaint channels

2. Taxpayer Rights and Responsibilities

Key rights afforded to taxpayers
Responsibilities when engaging with SARS
Principles of fair and lawful tax administration

3. Engaging SARS Effectively

Internal SARS complaint resolution mechanisms
Steps taxpayers should take before escalating a complaint
Best practices for lodging and managing complaints

4. The Role and Mandate of the Office of the Tax Ombud

Purpose and functions of the OTO
Matters within and outside the OTO's jurisdiction
How the OTO promotes fairness in tax administration

5. When and How to Approach the Office of the Tax Ombud

Criteria for lodging a complaint with the OTO
Required documentation and information
Complaint submission processes and timelines

Competencies Developed

Understand the tax complaints framework and complaint escalation process.
Distinguish between complaints, objections, appeals, and disputes within the tax administration system.
Apply knowledge of taxpayer rights and responsibilities when engaging with SARS.
Identify circumstances that warrant escalation to the Office of the Tax Ombud.
Navigate the Office of the Tax Ombud's complaint submission requirements and procedures.
Enhance complaint management and dispute resolution skills in a tax environment.
Promote compliance and fair administrative practices when advising taxpayers or managing tax matters.
Improve stakeholder communication and engagement in resolving SARS-related concerns.
Strengthen professional competence in tax governance and taxpayer advocacy.

Presenters

Frik Pretorius

Acting Senior Manager: Legal Services and Systemic Investigations

Frik Pretorius was in private practice for six years before joining SARS as an Attorney in 1999. He was one of the first attorneys to start the Legal Department of SARS.

In 2006, he was appointed as the Legal Specialist of Gauteng South and was also involved in establishing the Alternative Dispute Resolution process as we know it today.

In his current role at the Office of the Tax Ombud, Pretorius is a Specialist: Legal Services, and provides comprehensive legal services across the organisation and is a member of the Operations Complaints Evaluation Committee and Dispute Resolution processes.

Yolisa Dyasi

Yolisa is a seasoned Tax Specialist and registered General Tax Practitioner (SA) with extensive experience at SARS, the Office of the Tax Ombud, and in private practice. She holds a B.Com Honours in Taxation from the University of Johannesburg and currently serves as National Tax Manager for one of South Africa’s largest property management companies, overseeing tax compliance for over 2,500 commercial clients. Yolisa is a respected authority in Tax Administration, known for her strong stakeholder engagement and dispute resolution skills. She regularly contributes to tax education through webinars, publications, and media appearances.