KRA Tax Returns Filing Gets Easier for Kenyans in 2026

KRA Tax Returns filing has become more flexible, giving Kenyans several ways to stay compliant before the June 30 deadline.

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The Kenya Revenue Authority has expanded digital filing options beyond the traditional iTax portal, allowing taxpayers to use mobile tools such as WhatsApp, USSD and the M-Service app. The changes are designed to make tax compliance easier for Kenyans who may not have regular access to a laptop, cybercafé or stable internet connection.

For the 2025 year of income, taxpayers are required to file annual income tax returns between January 1 and June 30, 2026. Anyone with a KRA PIN and an income tax obligation must file, whether they earned income or not.

That means employed Kenyans, business owners, landlords, freelancers and people with no income all need to check their filing status. Those without income file a nil return, while employed taxpayers generally file using their P9 details.

KRA Tax Returns Can Now Be Filed in Several Ways

KRA’s expanded filing options give taxpayers more control over how they meet their obligations.

The iTax portal remains the main platform for filing full returns, amending returns, generating payment slips and handling more complex tax matters. It is still the best route for taxpayers with employment income, business income, rental income, withholding tax credits or multiple income sources.

However, mobile channels now make filing easier for simpler cases. A taxpayer filing a nil return or a basic employment return may not need to rely only on a computer. They can use the M-Service app, USSD or WhatsApp, depending on the service available and the type of return they need to file.

This is especially important for Kenyans using basic phones. USSD services allow access without a smartphone, while WhatsApp works for taxpayers who prefer a guided chat experience.

The wider goal is clear: reduce last-minute congestion, cut filing anxiety and make compliance more accessible.

Filing Through USSD

USSD is useful for taxpayers who want a simple mobile-phone option.

KRA services can be accessed through USSD, including filing returns, payment services, tax compliance certificate applications and inquiries. This option works on feature phones and does not require mobile data.

For many taxpayers, USSD is most suitable for simple filing tasks such as nil returns or checking service options. It is also helpful in areas where internet connectivity is unreliable.

Taxpayers should follow the prompts carefully and ensure the details entered match their KRA PIN, ID number and tax obligation. A wrong entry can lead to filing errors or failed verification.

Filing Through WhatsApp

KRA has also introduced WhatsApp-based filing to make the process faster and more familiar.

Taxpayers can start a chat using KRA’s official contact number, +254 711 099 999, then follow the prompts to select the service they need. The system guides users through identity verification and filing steps.

The WhatsApp option is intended to simplify filing for taxpayers who may find iTax difficult or time-consuming. It can reduce the number of steps needed to file and provide real-time assistance during the process.

Still, taxpayers should be cautious. They should only use official KRA communication channels and avoid sharing PINs, passwords, OTPs or personal tax details with unknown contacts.

Filing Through the iTax Portal

The iTax portal remains the most comprehensive filing platform.

Taxpayers can log in using their KRA PIN and password, then select the returns menu to file the correct return. Employed taxpayers usually use their P9 information, while those with business, rental or other income must declare all income earned during the year.

The portal also allows taxpayers to generate an e-slip if a return produces tax due. This e-slip contains the Payment Registration Number needed to make payment through approved channels.

iTax is also important for taxpayers who need to amend returns, confirm withholding tax credits, check previous filings or handle more detailed tax obligations.

Before submitting, taxpayers should review their income, reliefs, deductions and credits. Filing incorrect information can create compliance problems later.

Filing Through the KRA M-Service App

The KRA M-Service app gives smartphone users another mobile option.

Through M-Service, taxpayers can access services such as PIN registration, nil return filing, tax payments, e-slip verification, tax compliance certificate checks and other KRA services. The app is useful for users who want a mobile platform without going through a desktop browser.

It can also help taxpayers who need to generate or verify payment information while away from a computer.

For simple tax matters, M-Service may be faster than visiting a cybercafé. However, taxpayers with more complex returns should still consider using iTax or getting professional tax advice.

How to Pay KRA Taxes Through M-Pesa

If a return generates tax due, the taxpayer must pay using the correct e-slip details.

KRA’s current guidance directs mobile tax payments through the unified Government PayBill number 222222. The account number should be the Payment Registration Number shown on the generated payment slip.

Taxpayers should enter the exact amount shown on the e-slip and confirm the details before completing the M-Pesa transaction.

This step is important because filing a return and paying tax are not always the same thing. A taxpayer may successfully file but still remain non-compliant if the tax due is not paid.

After payment, the taxpayer should keep the confirmation message and check that the payment reflects in their KRA account.

What Taxpayers Should Do Before the Deadline

Taxpayers should file early rather than wait for the final days before June 30.

Late filing can attract penalties, and last-minute traffic may slow online systems. Filing early also gives taxpayers time to correct errors, recover passwords, confirm employer details or resolve missing records.

Those with no income should file a nil return. Those with employment income should confirm their P9 details. Anyone with side income, business income, rental income or withholding tax certificates should ensure all income is declared correctly.

The expansion of filing channels gives Kenyans more convenience, but accuracy remains the taxpayer’s responsibility.

KRA’s digital options make compliance easier, especially for ordinary taxpayers who need quick access through a phone. The key is to use the correct official channel, file the right return and pay any tax due using the current PayBill and e-slip details.