KRA Clarifies Who Must File Tax Returns Ahead of June 30 Deadline
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has clarified that not all individuals with a KRA PIN are required to file tax returns. The explanation offers relief to some taxpayers ahead of the June 30 filing deadline.
KRA stated that taxpayers whose PINs have no tax obligation attached do not need to submit returns. The authority issued the clarification after responding to a taxpayer experiencing errors on the iTax system.
KRA Explains Tax Obligation Rules
The taxpayer had reported receiving a message stating that their PIN was not active under the Income Tax Resident Individual obligation. They sought help to activate the system for filing.
KRA responded that the PIN had no tax obligation assigned and therefore required no return filing. The authority emphasized that filing requirements depend on the obligations linked to each PIN.
Many Kenyans assume that every registered PIN automatically requires annual returns. However, KRA clarified that this is not always the case under tax law.
Relief for Some Taxpayers
The clarification comes as thousands of Kenyans prepare to file returns before the June 30 deadline. Failure to file attracts penalties for non-compliance.
KRA also noted that it is using automated systems such as eTIMS and customs data to verify taxpayer information. The system helps match declared income with official records.
To ease filing, KRA introduced a WhatsApp-based platform called Shuru. The service allows taxpayers to check obligations and file returns more easily.
The authority encouraged taxpayers to confirm their status early to avoid confusion and last-minute delays during the filing period.
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