How do I submit EMP201 monthly returns?

# How to Submit EMP201 Monthly Returns **EMP201 monthly employer declarations must be submitted to SARS by the 7th of each month** following the payroll month. Both the return and payment are due by this deadline. ## Prerequisites for EMP201 Submission Before submitting your first EMP201, you must: - **Register as an employer** with SARS using form EMP101 - **Obtain an employer reference number** from SARS - **Register for SARS eFiling** with your employer profile - Have employees earning above the **R91,250 annual tax threshold** (2024/2025 tax year) ## Step-by-Step EMP201 Submission Process ### 1. Access SARS eFiling - Visit **www.sarsefiling.co.za** - Log in with your username and password - Select your employer profile if you manage multiple entities ### 2. Navigate to EMP201 Returns - Go to **"Returns"** in the main menu - Select **"Employee Tax (PAYE)"** - Choose **"EMP201 - Monthly Employer Declaration"** ### 3. Complete the Declaration - **Select the tax period** (month and year) - Enter **total PAYE deducted** from employee salaries - Input **SDL (Skills Development Levy)** at 1% of payroll - Add **UIF contributions** (employee and employer portions) - **Verify all calculations** before proceeding ### 4. Submit and Pay - Review your declaration summary - **Submit electronically** via eFiling - **Make payment** via EFT, internet banking, or at a bank - Use your **SARS reference number** for payment identification ## Critical Deadlines and Penalties **Monthly deadline:** **7th of each month** for the previous month's payroll. When the 7th falls on a weekend or public holiday, the deadline extends to the next business day. **Late submission penalties:** - **R250 per month** for late EMP201 submissions - **10% penalty** on outstanding PAYE amounts - **Interest charges** on unpaid amounts ## Common EMP201 Requirements **Must submit even if zero liability:** Submit a nil return if you had no PAYE obligations for the month. **Adjustments allowed:** Use EMP201 to correct previous submissions or reallocate credits for prior periods. **Supporting documentation:** Keep payroll records, IRP5 certificates, and payment confirmations for five years. ## Streamlining Your EMP201 Process Managing multiple client EMP201 deadlines can be overwhelming. **WeekdayApp's automated SARS deadline tracking** ensures you never miss the monthly 7th deadline, with smart notifications and client-specific compliance calendars starting at R199/user/month. **Key reminders:** - Set up **calendar alerts** for the 5th of each month - **Reconcile payroll** before the deadline - **Confirm payment processing** allows adequate time - **Keep digital copies** of all submitted returns