Media Statement
27 June 2023

In September 2022, some Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) pensioners were taxed at a higher tax rate following a directive from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) as informed by a provision for a revised rate of tax in the Income Tax Act. This provision was only applicable to pensioners with more than one source of taxable income, including their GEPF pension.

This year (2023), the GEPF sent correspondence to pensioners affected by the higher tax deduction providing them with the option to either accept the revised tax rate or continue with the normal PAYE tax rate applicable to their pension. Not all affected pensioners have responded to the request.

We remind affected pensioners who have not yet responded to the request to make their tax choices, to do so as soon as possible. The forms for this purpose are available on the GEPF website, gepf.datafree.co or at GEPF regional offices. Pensioners who have outstanding SARS debts and wish to settle them should make arrangements directly with SARS. The GEPF cannot assist with arrangements to settle outstanding SARS debts and this deduction cannot be used for that purpose.

Required documents:

1. A form stating your choice, amount, and dates for deduction (obtainable at GEPF Offices and on the GEPF website)
2. A certified copy of the ID of the member (both sides of your SA ID Card, or your green barcoded ID book.)
3. Non-South African nationals should attach a certified copy of their valid passport. All certified copies are valid for six months only.

Submission Instructions:

The original form must be delivered to any GEPF regional office across the country or by email paye@gpaa.gov.za or by postal services to:

Government Employees Pension Fund
Private Bag X63
Pretoria
0001
Pensioners can also contact the GEPF Call Centre: 0800 117669 if further information is required.

Media enquiries : media@gpaa.gov.za /Mack Lewele 0824505076

The GEPF respects privacy and personal information of its members and pensioners and therefore subscribes to the provisions of the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013. Visit gepf.datafree.co to view GEPF Privacy Policy and Privacy statement.

Issued by the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA) on behalf of the Government Employees Pension Fund