They say media reports of pile-ups at border posts were as a result of vehicle traffic and not the strike. 

At least one SARS official was arrested at the Lebombo border post for trying to disrupt revenue service operations.

Most SARS branches, however, remained closed with only 20 operating with skeleton staff. 

Union members from the Public Servants Association and the National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union (NEHAWU) went on strike on Thursday, demanding, among others, an 11.4 percent salary hike while SARS is offering seven percent.

Meanwhile, SARS says there are no excuses for not filing returns despite the strike. eNCA reports that is because e-filing and the call centre are still available. 

Those who don't pay their taxes will be deemed as being outstanding on their payments but no alternatives were offered for those who needed face to face services. 

Tax practitioners are also warning defaulters could find themselves in hot water. 

Those taxpayers who've left their queries to the last minute have no other option but to wait out the strike.

ANA/eNCA