SARS eFiling Login Problems? How to Fix Them (2026)

An independent, plain-English guide to fixing common SARS eFiling login problems — forgotten details, missing OTPs, locked profiles and browser issues. Always verify the process on sars.gov.za.

Step by step

1. Confirm you are on the official siteType sarsefiling.co.za yourself rather than clicking a link, to avoid fake login pages.
2. Use Forgot Username or Forgot PasswordOn the official login page, choose the recovery option instead of creating a second profile.
3. Receive and enter your OTPSARS sends a one-time pin to the cellphone and email on your profile; enter it to continue.
4. Set a new, unique passwordChoose a strong password you have not used elsewhere, then log in.
5. Update your contact detailsIn My Profile, confirm your cellphone and email are current so future OTPs reach you.
6. Unlock a locked profileReset your password or use the SARS MobiApp; if it stays locked, contact SARS to verify your identity.
7. Fix browser issuesUpdate your browser, clear cache and cookies, disable blockers, or try an incognito window.

SARS eFiling login problems are usually caused by a forgotten username or password, a one-time pin (OTP) that does not arrive, a locked profile, or an out-of-date browser. Most are fixed in minutes by resetting your details on the official eFiling site, updating your contact number, or switching to the SARS MobiApp.

This is an independent CluedUp guide. We are not SARS and this is not the official SARS portal. Always complete the actual login and reset steps on the official SARS websites below, and check sars.gov.za for the authoritative process.

Common SARS eFiling login errors and quick fixes

Before anything else, make sure you are on the real site: sarsefiling.co.za. Then work through the most common problems:

• “Incorrect username or password” — check for caps lock, extra spaces, and that you are using your eFiling login (not your bank or email). Reset if unsure.
• OTP not arriving — your mobile number or email on file may be outdated. See the OTP section below.
• “Your profile is locked” — too many failed attempts. Wait, then reset your password, or follow the unlock steps below.
• Blank screen or spinning page — almost always a browser issue. Clear your cache or try a different, updated browser.
• “Profile” or portfolio errors — your access may be linked to the wrong portfolio (individual, tax practitioner or organisation). Switch portfolio once logged in.

Step by step: reset your username or password

If you cannot remember your details, do not create a second profile. Recover the existing one instead.

1. Go to the official login page at sarsefiling.co.za and select Forgot Username or Forgot Password.
2. Enter the ID number or details SARS asks for so it can find your profile.
3. SARS sends a one-time pin (OTP) to the mobile number and/or email address linked to your profile.
4. Enter the OTP, then choose a new, strong password you have not used elsewhere.
5. Log in with your recovered username and new password.
6. Once inside, open My Profile and confirm your cellphone number and email are current so future OTPs reach you.

If you have never registered, start with our guides on how to register for SARS eFiling and how to log in to SARS eFiling.

Where the OTP is sent and what to do if it does not arrive

SARS sends the OTP to the cellphone number and email address stored on your profile, not to any number you type at login. If it does not arrive:

• Wait a minute or two and request the OTP again — SMS can be delayed.
• Check your email spam or junk folder.
• Confirm you have signal and that your inbox is not full.
• If your number or email has changed and you can no longer receive the OTP, SARS requires you to update your security contact details. This often needs identity verification, which you can do via the SARS MobiApp, an eBooking appointment, or a branch visit.

Never share your OTP or password with anyone. SARS and CluedUp will never phone, SMS or email you to ask for your OTP, password or banking pin.

Unlocking a locked eFiling profile

Profiles usually lock after several failed login or OTP attempts. To recover access:

1. Stop retrying — repeated attempts keep the profile locked.
2. Use Forgot Password to reset, which often clears a soft lock.
3. If it stays locked, the fastest route is the SARS MobiApp, which has its own reset and unlock options.
4. If you still cannot get in, contact the SARS Contact Centre or book a branch appointment (see below) so an agent can verify your identity and unlock the profile.

Use the SARS MobiApp as an alternative

The official SARS MobiApp (from the Apple App Store or Google Play) is a reliable fallback when the website misbehaves. You can log in, reset your password, request an OTP, and even unlock your profile from your phone. Make sure you download the genuine SARS app published by the South African Revenue Service, not a lookalike. When your login is working again, you can return to filing — see how to file your tax return on eFiling.

Fix browser problems

If the site loads incorrectly, will not accept your login, or freezes:

• Update your browser to the latest version, or use a different modern browser.
• Clear your cache and cookies, then reopen the site.
• Disable pop-up blockers and ad blockers for the SARS site, as they can block the login window.
• Try a private or incognito window to rule out old stored data.
• Avoid very old devices or outdated operating systems that no longer support current security standards.

When to call the SARS Contact Centre or visit a branch

Contact SARS directly when you cannot update your security contact details yourself, your profile stays locked, or your identity needs to be verified. Use only the official channels listed on sars.gov.za: the SARS Contact Centre, the eBooking system for a virtual or in-branch appointment, and the SARS Online Query System. Have your ID number and tax reference number ready. Contact numbers and operating hours can change, so confirm them on the official SARS site rather than from a search advert.

Avoid fake “SARS login” phishing sites

Scammers build fake eFiling pages to steal your login and banking details. Protect yourself:

• Type the address yourself — sarsefiling.co.za or sars.gov.za — rather than clicking links in SMSes or emails.
• Be suspicious of any message with a login link promising a refund or threatening your account.
• Never enter your password or OTP on a page you reached from an unexpected link.
• Check that the web address is exactly correct; phishing domains use small misspellings.

Frequently asked questions

Why does SARS eFiling keep saying my password is wrong?

Usually caps lock, stray spaces, or using the wrong credentials. Reset your password via Forgot Password on sarsefiling.co.za and choose a new, unique one.

My OTP is not coming through — what now?

The OTP goes to the number and email on your profile. Wait and resend, check spam, and confirm your signal. If your contact details are outdated, update them via the SARS MobiApp or a SARS appointment.

How do I unlock my eFiling profile?

Stop retrying, reset your password, or use the SARS MobiApp. If it stays locked, contact the SARS Contact Centre so an agent can verify you and unlock it.

Is the SARS MobiApp safe to use for login?

Yes, the official SARS MobiApp is a genuine SARS channel. Download only the real app from the official app stores and never share your login or OTP.

How can I tell a fake SARS login site from the real one?

Type the address yourself and check it is exactly sarsefiling.co.za or sars.gov.za. Do not log in via links in unexpected SMSes or emails, which often use misspelled lookalike domains.

Is CluedUp the official SARS website?

No. CluedUp is an independent guide. We are not SARS and not the official portal. For the authoritative login process, use sars.gov.za.

CluedUp is an independent guide and is not affiliated with any government agency. Fees, links and steps can change — always confirm on the official portal before you act. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.