Important to remember
Key dates. Key rules.Stay ahead of deadlines.
SARS submissions
Employers reconcile their IRP5/IT3(a) certificates, EMP201/EMP501 statements, and actual payments to SARS twice a year using the e@syFile software. The February EMP501 reconciliation includes values for the full tax year (1 March 2025 – 28 February 2026) and generates tax certificates for all employees on eFiling.
e@syFile software
The latest SARS e@syFile Employer version must be used to submit your EMP501 reconciliation. Visit their website to download the latest version and release notes. The Deel Local Payroll .csv file is compatible with e@syFile and e-filing.
Submission period
The annual EMP501 reconciliation submission period runs from 1 April 2026 to 31 May 2026. The employer interim reconciliation submission period runs from 17 September 2026 to 31 October 2026.
How Deel Local Payroll can help
Three ways to getyour EMP501 done.
We assist you
Our payroll specialists walk you through the EMP501 process, review your data, and help you submit correctly. Ideal for teams that want hands-on support.
We educate you
Access our eLearning course covering the full EMP501 process. Learn at your own pace, with step-by-step video walkthroughs and downloadable resources.
Access trainingDIY with our guide
Download our step-by-step EMP501 submission guide. Everything you need to reconcile and submit independently using the Deel Local Payroll .csv export.
Download guideHelpful to know
Employment Tax Validation.What it means for you.
From the 2020 year of assessment, SARS performs tax calculations on the IRP5/IT3(a) certificates submitted via e@syFile. This is known as Employment Taxes Validation (ETV).
Values are recalculated based on the data provided on the IRP5/IT3(a) certificates. Where a different amount of tax was deducted from the employee, a letter is issued with a file containing a list of certificates that have failed the SARS Employment Taxes Validation (ETV).
For more information on ETV, refer to the SARS website.
SARS guides and documentation
Official resources from SARS.Click a link to view.
Guide for Validation Rules Application to Reconciliation Declarations 2026
SARS official guide
Guide for Codes Applicable to Employees Tax Certificates 2026
SARS official guide
Guide to the Employer Reconciliation Process
SARS official guide
Guide for Completion and Submission of Employees' Tax Certificates 2025
SARS official guide
e@syFile Employer Guide
SARS official guide
Need help with EMP501?We're here for you.
Whether you need a guided session, want to upskill, or prefer to go it alone — our team is ready to support you.