Understanding the SARS Risk Assessment System
Presenters : Yolisa Dyasi
Overview
As SARS continues to modernise its compliance and enforcement strategies, understanding how it assesses risk has become critical for both individuals and tax professionals. This insightful video unpacks the evolving mechanisms SARS uses to identify high-risk taxpayers, with a focus on the growing role of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and third-party reporting.
Participants will gain a practical understanding of how SARS leverages technology to detect non-compliance, what behaviours or data points may trigger scrutiny, and how to proactively manage risk. Whether you advise clients, prepare your own returns, or manage a business, this session offers valuable tools to stay ahead in a data-driven compliance era.
Video Content
- How SARS Identifies Risky Behaviour: Explore data sources, behavioural indicators, and profiling tools used by SARS, with illustrative examples.
- AI, Data Analytics, and Third-Party Reporting: Understand the role of technology, automation, and international data sharing in SARS’ compliance model.
- Practical Risk Mitigation and Advisory Strategies: Learn how to manage audit risk, respond to verification requests, and maintain strong compliance practices.
Competencies Developed
- Understand SARS’ Risk Framework: Grasp the core methodologies and digital tools SARS employs in its risk profiling.
- Differentiate Risk Approaches: See how SARS tailors risk strategies to various taxpayer categories, including individuals, SMEs, and corporates.
- Leverage Third-Party Data Awareness: Recognise the impact of data sources like CRS, bank feeds, and international disclosures.
- Adapt to Tax Administration 3.0: Gain insight into the future of tax enforcement, driven by AI, automation, and digital transformation.