Reprieve for Kenyans as KRA Extends Tax Returns Deadline

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has extended the filing returns deadline to accommodate the high number of taxpayers rushing to escape the penalty fees.

In a statement issued on Monday, June 30, the KRA announced a 24-hour extension to the tax returns filing deadline.

Kenyans who are yet to file their 2024 returns now have until midnight on Friday, July 5, 2025, to comply.

“We appreciate all taxpayers for the overwhelming turnout in filing the 2024 income tax returns. Due to system issues experienced on June 30, 2025, a waiver of penalties and interest has been granted.

“New deadline: 5th July 2025. File your returns at http://itax.kra.go.ke and pay any due taxes by the new date to avoid penalties.”

Reprieve for Kenyans as KRA Extends Tax Returns Deadline

According to the new schedule, the KRA Contact Centre will operate from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Additionally, physical Tax Service Offices across the country will remain open for 12 hours—from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM—to support Kenyans who are unable to file their returns online.

Earlier, a section of Kenyans took to the internet to express frustration with the Kenya Revenue Authority’s (KRA) iTax portal, citing error messages and access difficulties. Many users reported being unable to log in or reset their passwords, further fueling public outcry.

Some shared screenshots of the error pages encountered while trying to access the portal, while others noted they were not receiving the OTP (One-Time Password) messages required for login or verification.

The error message displayed read: “An error has occurred,” followed by an error reference number, with instructions stating: “Problem encountered in iTax. Please contact the KRA call centre at the contact details below and quote the above Error Reference No for resolution.”

Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About Filing Your KRA Returns as the Deadline Nears

Whether you’re employed, self-employed, a small business owner, a student, a farmer, or recently unemployed, filing your tax return is not optional—it’s a legal requirement that carries consequences if ignored.

Failure to comply can result in penalties, even if you have no income to declare.

Who Needs to File Returns

Filing an annual tax return is mandatory for all KRA PIN holders. If you are formally employed, you are still required to file a return even if your employer has already deducted PAYE (Pay As You Earn).

Self-employed individuals—including business owners, consultants, landlords, and farmers—must declare their income and file returns accordingly.

Those who did not earn any income during the year are expected to file a NIL return. Students who registered for a KRA PIN for HELB loan applications are also obligated to file NIL returns.

Similarly, individuals who obtained a KRA PIN for purposes such as opening a bank account, participating in tender processes, or conducting property transactions must file an annual return, whether or not they had any income.

Also Read: Kenyans Report KRA Portal Errors Just Hours to Filing Deadline

What Happens If You Don’t File Your Returns on Time?

Failing to file your tax returns by the deadline can lead to costly penalties from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). These include:

• Late filing penalty: 5% of the tax due or Ksh 2,000—whichever is higher.

• Late payment penalty: 5% of the unpaid tax, plus 1% interest per month until the balance is cleared.

These charges can accumulate quickly, potentially damaging your tax record. It’s better to file your return—even if some details are pending—than to miss the deadline altogether.

In addition to financial penalties, non-compliance may affect your access to critical services such as government tenders, business licenses, and even loans, which often require tax compliance certificates.

What Documents Do I Need to File Returns?

Being prepared makes the filing process smoother and quicker. Here’s what you may need, depending on your income source:

• Salaried Employees: Your P9 form (provided by your employer), mortgage or life insurance certificates, and any tax exemption statements you may have.

• Business or Rental Income Earners: Keep your sales records, expense receipts, withholding tax certificates, and advance tax receipts ready for accurate reporting.

• Farmers: Gather records of income and expenses from your farm sales, purchases of inputs like seeds and fertilizer, and any farming contracts.

• Students or Unemployed Individuals: If you have an active KRA PIN, you are still required to file a NIL return, even if you had no income during the year.

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