Seeing money deducted from your bank account by SARS without warning can be alarming. These unauthorized SARS withdrawals—often referred to as “third-party appointments”—are usually the result of outstanding tax debts or unresolved disputes. But many taxpayers don’t realize they still have rights, and options, to address the situation.
At Leozzy Accounting, we’ve helped numerous individuals and businesses in Midrand and beyond challenge unfair SARS deductions and recover control over their finances. Here’s what to do if you notice unauthorized SARS withdrawals.
🛑 1. Don’t Panic – Confirm the Withdrawal
Before taking action, verify that the withdrawal was indeed initiated by SARS. Look for:
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Descriptions like “SARS Third Party” or “SARS TP Appointment” on your bank statement
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Emails or letters from SARS about outstanding tax debts
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Missed deadlines for tax returns or payments
If you’re unsure, speak with a tax professional immediately.
📋 2. Understand Why SARS Took This Action
SARS has legal authority under Section 179 of the Tax Administration Act to appoint a third party—such as your bank—to deduct money from your account without a court order if:
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You owe tax and haven’t responded to demands
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You ignored a Final Demand letter
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You failed to submit an objection or appeal in time
That said, SARS must follow proper legal procedures, including giving you notice and opportunity to respond.
⚖️ 3. Know Your Legal Rights
Even if SARS has the power to recover unpaid tax, you still have rights, including:
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The right to receive a Final Demand before money is deducted
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The right to object to assessments or raise a dispute
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The right to apply for a Suspension of Payment
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The right to legal representation
If any of these steps were skipped or mishandled, SARS may have acted unlawfully.
📞 4. Contact a Tax Practitioner or Legal Expert Immediately
At Leozzy Accounting, we’ll:
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Investigate the withdrawal
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Review your tax account with SARS
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Determine if SARS followed proper legal steps
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Submit urgent applications or disputes where necessary
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Negotiate payment arrangements if the debt is valid
The sooner you act, the higher the chances of stopping further deductions and even recovering funds.
🧾 5. Submit a Suspension of Payment Request
If you’re disputing the tax debt or audit, you can submit a Suspension of Payment application to SARS. This tells SARS not to enforce payment while the dispute is being reviewed.
Without this, SARS can legally collect—even if you’re in the right.
🔁 6. Lodge an Objection or Appeal (If Applicable)
If the deduction stems from an assessment you disagree with, you may be able to lodge a formal objection or appeal within 30 business days. We can help you draft a strong case, backed by evidence and legal grounds.
🛡️ 7. Prevent Future Issues
To avoid SARS withdrawals in the future:
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Keep all your returns and payments up to date
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Regularly check your SARS eFiling account
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Appoint a registered tax practitioner to manage your tax affairs
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Respond to SARS letters and Final Demands promptly
💼 How Leozzy Accounting Can Help
Our tax dispute and legal support services include:
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SARS account reviews
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Dispute resolution and objection drafting
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Suspension of payment submissions
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Communication with SARS on your behalf
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Legal referrals if litigation is required
📞 Take Back Control—We’re Here to Help
If SARS has withdrawn money from your account without proper notice or if you’re unsure of your tax position, contact Leozzy Accounting immediately. We’ll help you understand your rights, dispute unfair actions, and protect your financial wellbeing.
