- KRA has introduced a new step-by-step income tax filing system.
- Taxpayers will be grouped based on the type of income they earn.
- The move aims to reduce congestion and last-minute filing stress.
- Each group will receive clear guidance and set timelines.
- Notifications will be sent through SMS and email.
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced changes to how income tax returns will be filed going forward.
The new system, unveiled on Thursday, February 5, will roll out in stages, with taxpayers placed into groups depending on how complex their income sources are.
KRA says the update is meant to stop the familiar end-of-deadline rush that often causes delays and system overloads.
By grouping taxpayers and guiding them separately, the authority believes filing will become smoother and more orderly.
Taxpayers who earned income only from employment in 2025 will have a simpler process.
They will only need to confirm the salary details already captured in the iTax system before submitting their returns.
For individuals who earned salary income and additional earnings, such as rental income or withholding tax, KRA will provide specific instructions.
These taxpayers will receive clear messages explaining their income categories and how to file correctly.
KRA is also targeting taxpayers who previously filed nil returns or skipped filing despite earning income subject to withholding tax.
The authority says the new system will help such individuals understand their duties and apply for refunds where they qualify.
Under the new model, filing deadlines will differ depending on the taxpayer group.
KRA says this spacing will reduce pressure on its digital systems and make the process less stressful for users.
To support the rollout, KRA will send personalized reminders through SMS and email.
These messages will guide taxpayers on when and how to file, based on their income category.
