The Kenya Revenue Authority has introduced a new way for Kenyans to file their tax returns, now allowing the process to be done on WhatsApp in a bid to make it faster and less stressful.
In a statement shared on its official X platform, the tax agency said taxpayers no longer need to go through lengthy logins or download new apps to complete their returns. “No new apps. No extra steps. Just open WhatsApp and get it done,” the authority said.
KRA noted that many Kenyans struggle with filing not because it is difficult, but because the process feels tedious. To fix this, the system now pre-fills returns where possible and guides users step by step, with support available directly on WhatsApp to reduce delays and confusion.
“You don’t need to be an expert to file anymore. You just need to get started,” KRA added.
The move comes as the authority pushes for higher compliance, warning businesses against declaring false nil returns. In an earlier message, KRA stressed: “If you get income from your business, you cannot declare NIL returns.”
Taxpayers who fail to file by June 30 risk penalties, including fines or a percentage of the tax owed. More serious consequences such as higher fines, interest charges, or even prosecution may apply in cases of false declarations.
According to KRA data, out of over 22 million registered taxpayers, only about 7 million are active. The authority has also flagged hundreds of thousands of individuals who reported zero income despite showing signs of financial activity.
To support compliance, KRA has begun sending SMS alerts to notify taxpayers that their 2025 returns are ready for review, encouraging them to file early through iTax or the new WhatsApp option.
