A few years ago, I was a student chasing an opportunity that needed a KRA Tax Compliance Certificate. I had registered for a KRA pin earlier but hadn’t given it much thought since I didn’t have a formal job.
So, I confidently logged into my iTax Portal and froze. Staring back at me was a fine of Ksh63,000 for failure to file returns.
Panic mode: ON
I had not earned a cent in employment income at the time. Just side hustles, vibes, lectures and late night study sessions. I thought, “How could I owe the government this much?”
Thankfully I got advice to request a waiver to explain and proof that I was a student who had not made any income. I submitted a letter through the iTax portal, waited nervously and it worked. The amount was waived.
But the stress? The near heart attack? That lesson stuck. From then I always say: Don’t always wait for a job, a tender or a crisis to start filing your returns. Whether you are a student, freelancer, employed or running your own business. File your returns.
You may ask why it matters to file your KRA return especially if you are not earning an income. The truth is, filing returns goes beyond just ticking a box, it’s about staying legally compliant, avoiding penalties and unlocking opportunities.
Whether you’re applying for a job, a loan or a government tender, a Tax Compliance Certificate is often a must have and you can only get it if your returns are up to date. Filing your returns also builds your financial credibility and shows responsibility.
Here is how to do it right:
Access the iTax Portal: Visit the iTax platform
Log In: Enter your PIN and password to access your account.
Navigate to Returns: Click on ‘e-Returns’ or select ‘Returns’ from the menu, then click on ‘File Returns.’
Select Return Type: Enter your PIN, select your tax obligation (e.g., Income Tax, VAT), and click ‘Next.’
Download the Relevant Form: Based on your selection, the system will provide a downloadable Excel or ODS template. Save the template to your computer.
Fill in the Details: Complete all applicable sections in the downloaded form. Ensure macros are enabled to validate and zip the file correctly.
Upload the Form: Return to the filing page, select the tax period, and upload the zipped file. Agree to the terms and conditions by ticking the checkbox.
Submit the Return: Click the ‘Submit’ button and confirm the submission by clicking ‘OK’ on the pop-up message.
Receive Acknowledgment: Upon successful submission, an e-return receipt will be generated with a confirmation message and acknowledgment number.
Filing your returns is a simple task that can save you from fines and unlock important opportunities. It takes less than 10 minutes and it’s completely free if you are doing it yourself
Remember the deadline is 30th June every year. Don’t wait until the last minute, log in, file and stay compliant. Your future self will thank you.
Kulipa ushuru, ni kujitegemea.
