The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has reminded Kenyans about the implementation of a simplified procedure for filing of Value Added Tax (VAT) returns effective January 2024.
KRA announced changes in tax filing process on November 28, 2023, in a bid to enhance the efficiency.
Following the changes, VAT returns will now be pre-filled with tax information available to KRA, aiming to simplify the process and provide a more user-friendly experience for taxpayers.
“The pre-filled VAT return is a self-assessment return, and taxpayers are required to confirm the accuracy of the declaration before submission, as prescribed in Section 28(4) of the Tax Procedures Act, CAP 469B,” the Commissioner for Domestic Taxes highlighted the importance of this initiative.
To ensure the validity of Input VAT claims, taxpayers are reminded of the necessity to validate claims through the Tax Invoice Management System (TIMS/eTIMS) or against existing customs import declarations for import VAT claims.
The Authority stressed the obligation of taxpayers to issue electronic tax invoices and transmit the invoice details in accordance with legal requirements.
Also Read: KRA Clarifies Reports Linking Its System to M-Pesa Downtime
The Credibility of Electonic Tax Invoices
The authenticity of electronic tax invoices can be verified by scanning the QR code or entering the control unit invoice number in the invoice checker on the iTax Portal log-in page.
Further, the Authority provided a step-by-step guide on filing the auto-populated VAT return, available on the KRA website for reference.
KRA said it remains committed to supporting and facilitating all taxpayers in complying with electronic tax invoicing requirements.
Also Read: KRA Announces Changes in Tax Filing Process
Contact KRA
For further information and assistance, taxpayers are encouraged to contact the KRA Contact Centre via telephone at (0) 20 4 999 999 or 0711 099 999, or by email at callcentre@kra.go.ke.
Simplifying VAT return filing aligns with KRA’s ongoing efforts to enhance tax administration processes and foster compliance.