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Selected for audit with travel allowance. How long to resolve?

Posted 16 August 2013

Hi Tim

This is a really helpful forum.

I have a query which I require advice on or a possible solution.
I completed my tax return on the 14 July 2013. In the prior year I received my refund in 2 days but this year I had been selected for verification and I submitted all the documents (logbook etc) and then few days later (23 July 2013) I get a notice letter from SARS saying I'm referred for audit (sad I know), so I waited and yesterday I had no response from SARS regards the referred for audit.
However my efiling status said correction filed and the SARS status said return - data submitted to ITS.

Yesterday I got an sms and email saying that notice issued on SARS efiling - IT34 notice for 2013/1. So I logged on and the ITA34 original assessment looks the same as when I submitted my return initially but my efiling status changed to assessment received.
I requested a statement of accounts on efiling and it reflects a refund by both the ITA34 and ITSA reflected selected for verification/audit - Y (Yes).

The SARS status remained the same and return - data submitted to ITS and when I check it says your assessment has been received but has not yet been processed etc.

So now I'm totally confused. I followed all the procedures. I uploaded the documents on efiling and emailed SARS just to be safe.
I work at an audit firm and the tax department is also trying to assist me as they are no sure why I was referred for audit as I only have travel and medical aid and when I called the called centre they said it takes 3-12 months to resolve.... in 12 months I have to completing my next tax return. That's a bit unfair.

Please assist me or advise me, or should I just wait 3-12 months?

TaxTim TaxTim says:
16 August 2013 at 18:43

This often happens when a taxpayer is claiming a travel allowance deduction using a logbook. In many cases the taxpayer is audited and unfortunately you have fallen into that net. There isn't really anything you can do, but be patient as the process is now with SARS and their internal departments. I wish I had a better answer for you.

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