Filing your Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) returns online is a crucial task for all individuals and businesses in Kenya. Whether you are employed, self-employed, or have no income, KRA requires that all taxpayers file their returns at the end of the financial year.
Thanks to the iTax platform, this process has been simplified and can be done from the comfort of your home. In this guide, we will show you exactly how to file your KRA returns online, including filing nil returns if you have no income to report.
How to File KRA Returns Online
Filing KRA returns online is straightforward and easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Visit the KRA iTax Website
Start by opening your browser and visiting the official KRA iTax website:
https://itax.kra.go.ke/KRA-Portal/
2. Log In to iTax
Use your KRA PIN and password to log in to your account. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to register with KRA before proceeding.
3. Select the ‘Returns’ Tab
Once logged in, navigate to the “Returns” tab on the navigation bar. Scroll down and select “File Returns” from the dropdown menu.
4. Choose Your Tax Obligation
You will be presented with a page displaying different tax obligations. Select the one that applies to you (e.g., Income Tax Resident) and click “Next.”
5. Open the Tax Form
The appropriate tax form for your selected obligation will appear. This is where you will fill out your income details.
6. Follow the Instructions
The form will come with detailed instructions that will guide you through the process of filling in your information. Make sure to read these instructions carefully.
7. Download the Tax Form Template
There will be links provided to download the tax form in either Excel or ODS format. Download and open the template on your device.
8. Fill in Your Information
Complete the required fields on the tax form with your accurate financial details. Once done, save the document.
9. Enable Macros and Zip the File
Enable macros in the document to validate your entries, then zip the file into a .zip format.
10. Return to iTax
Go back to the iTax portal, and in the “File Returns” section, select the tax period for which you are filing your returns.
11. Upload Your Zip File
Upload the zip file and agree to the terms and conditions. Afterward, click “Submit.”
12. Confirm Submission
A confirmation pop-up will appear asking you to verify if you want to upload the form. Click “OK” to proceed.
13. Receive Confirmation
Once your return is successfully submitted, you will receive a confirmation message from KRA acknowledging your submission. Ensure you save the confirmation message for your records.
How to File Nil Returns
If you have no income to report, filing nil returns is just as easy. Here’s how to do it:
1. Go to the KRA iTax Website
Visit https://itax.kra.go.ke/KRA-Portal/.
2. Log In to Your Account
Enter your KRA PIN and password to log into your iTax account.
3. Select the ‘Returns’ Tab
From the iTax dashboard, select the “Returns” option and click on “File Nil Returns.”
4. Enter Your KRA PIN
You will be prompted to enter your KRA PIN. Select “Income Tax Resident” and click “Next.”
5. Choose the Return Period
Select the relevant tax return period and click “Submit.”
6. Confirmation Message
A pop-up message will appear confirming your nil return submission. You will also receive an acknowledgement number.
7. Download and Print the Acknowledgement
You can download and print the return acknowledgment receipt for your records.
Conclusion
Filing KRA returns online has never been easier, thanks to the iTax platform. Whether you have income to report or not, it is important to file your returns to stay compliant with Kenya’s tax regulations. Ensure that you complete the process before the end of the financial year to avoid penalties.
By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can file your KRA returns or nil returns online quickly and efficiently.
