What Is Employee PAYE Reference Number

By Mav OT •  Updated: 01/23/24 •  4 min read

In every organised institution, numbers and codes are created to stand for relevant points. While some may be self-explanatory, others can also be a reference point. 

When it comes to the South Africa Revenue Service, the PAYE reference number serves as a traceability point. 

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If you have ever wondered about the exact definition of this number or how to find it, then you have come to the right place. This blog post will help you with the steps to find your PAYE reference number and obtain a SARS PAYE number. 

Additionally, we will answer a frequently asked question like “What is the total number of digits in a PAYE reference number?” 

Our focus will be on explaining more about employee PAYE reference numbers. 

What Is Employee PAYE Reference Number

The Employee PAYE reference number is an important identifier used by the South African Revenue Service in South Africa. It helps SARS keep track of and manage the contributions made by individual taxpayers to the national revenue. In the PAYE system, employers are responsible for deducting income tax from their employees’ salaries or wages. These deductions are then sent to SARS monthly with the right schedule. 

The Employee PAYE reference number is a special code given to every employee by SARS. It acts as a connection between the tax records of the employee and the payroll system of the employer. The reference number is important because it helps with precise tax reporting and makes sure that the right amount of tax is taken out from an employee’s income, according to the relevant tax tables.

Employees need to know their PAYE reference numbers and make sure that their employers use the accurate number when sending payroll information to SARS. This practice helps to avoid any inconsistencies in tax records and ensures that individuals receive the correct tax credits or refunds they are entitled to.

It is easier to understand when you know that the employee PAYE reference number is a special code given to South Africans. The concept for this reference number is to track, manage and regulate PAYE deductions. This unique number is designed to trace all taxes paid and taxes owed in South Africa. 

How do I find my PAYE reference number?

Whether an individual taxpayer or employee, there are a couple of ways you can find your PAYE reference number. 

The most used method is to contact the South African Revenue Service to get your PAYE reference number.  To find your PAYE reference number, you can either reach out to their customer service or visit a nearby SARS office. The SARS personnel will be there to assist you and guide you through all the necessary steps. They will also provide you with the information you require.

When individuals register for tax purposes, they can locate their PAYE reference number on the completed SARS Tax Registration Form. The PAYE reference number is usually indicated on this form, which is an important document used during the registration process. 

Please log in to your eFiling account and go to the appropriate section. Once there, you can find your PAYE reference number on the tax payment statement. 

How do I get a SARS PAYE number?

To get a SARS PAYE number in South Africa, you will need to go through a registration process and submit the necessary documents. Employers in South Africa are assigned this number to deduct taxes from their employee’s wages on behalf of the South African Revenue Service. 

By following this simple process, you can ensure that you comply with tax regulations and make it easier to deduct taxes from employee wages. You can register with your entity by using SARS eFiling.

After completing the task, make sure to submit all the required documents when going through the registration process.

Once the process is finished, SARS will send you an email notification and make sure to update your PAYE number on your eFiling profile.

How many numbers does PAYE reference number have?

Looking to know the number of digits that make up the PAYE reference number? Here is what you need to know about those numbers.
When it comes to payroll and taxation, employers and companies are given a special identifier called the PAYE reference number. The reference number is a unique code consisting of (ten) 10 digits. It is extremely important in many administrative and financial processes as it ensures that records are kept accurately and helps to facilitate effective communication between employers, employees, and tax authorities.

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