Tax Return

I am not happy with the treatment I have recently received from ABSA.

Unfortunately I had a Cheque account which was handed over due to unsettled bank charges (R4000) since I lost my job over a year ago. Recently (07/07/23) I had my Tax Returns being transferred into the same bank account by SARS not knowing that the account was "closed".

I went to Randburg Square branch on the 21/07/23 where I was assisted to open a new account so that the money can be transferred into that account. I was then assisted to call the Recovery Department, where it was confirmed that the funds were in the account. I was also glad to hear that my outstanding bank charges has been paid up.

What was most disappointing was that ABSA has to verify with SARS that the funds were from them before they can release them to be and they have to 1st verify with SARS which would take up to 72 working hours, I accepted that. However on Wednesday (26/07/23) the money was still not reflecting in the account and I went back to the branch to find out.

Upon getting there the Recovery Department once again explained the procedure and I was also informed SARS has a backlog therefore they are still waiting for the verification before they can release my money. I am shocked and disappointed that ABSA could actually "pay" themselves with unverified money yet they cannot make the same money available to me as it is mine.

As an accountable institution I'm very disappointed in ABSA and very dissatisfied that they are not willing to do anything about the matter but I was only advised to wait and no-one knows for how long. It also has me questioning if FICA is been adhered to.