Incorrect refund done due to SARS mistake – Ombudsman can’t assist me either
On my 2021 return SARS did an auto assessment and submitted it without my permission. Upon their submission, incorrect or rather old banking details (frozen with the bank) was attached to my return and my refund was paid into the incorrect account. Previous years I was paid into the correct account and was even required by SARS to verify my banking details. I logged a call with SARS, got the run around, then went to the Complaints department who told me that unfortunately they can’t help me after making their error. Then I went to the Ombudsman whom I thought would assist as SARS did not follow their normal procedures which they do every year. However, I was again told by them as well that I needed to deal directly with the bank to get my money. I find this to be unfair as SARS made an error in how they dealt with my return, and now they don't want to correct it which I feel they can. I was under the impression that the Ombudsman is there to resolve such queries but seems SARS can get away with making mistakes and that is ok and acceptable. Who then do we go to who can assist us when the Ombudsman can’t? This complaint has been going on for months now, honestly can’t believe this really.

I have never experienced this before with SARS , why now really. Is it ok for them to get away with making mistakes like these and we must just accept it :(