The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has rolled out a new digital platform that allows taxpayers to file their returns through WhatsApp, in a move aimed at making tax compliance easier and more accessible.
The initiative, launched on Wednesday, is part of the authority’s ongoing efforts to modernize its services and improve the experience for taxpayers across the country.
Speaking during the unveiling of the system, KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga said the platform is designed to simplify the filing process while supporting the government’s domestic revenue collection efforts.
“The new system is designed to provide simplified, inclusive solutions that support domestic revenue mobilisation,” Wattanga said.
According to the tax authority, the new solution significantly shortens the tax return submission process. Previously, taxpayers had to follow several steps to complete the process, but the updated system now requires only three stages, making it faster and more convenient.
The platform also provides immediate assistance to users who encounter challenges during filing. Taxpayers can receive guidance in real time, allowing them to complete the process without the need to physically visit KRA offices.
KRA said the new platform forms part of a phased strategy aimed at easing pressure on its digital systems during the annual return filing period while encouraging more Kenyans to meet their tax obligations on time.
In addition to the WhatsApp-based service, the authority has introduced improvements to its filing systems, including prefilled tax returns for individuals who earn employment income.
The returns incorporate employer-submitted Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) information such as gross earnings, taxable income and statutory deductions including the Social Health Insurance Fund and the Affordable Housing Levy.
Employers will also benefit from an updated PAYE return format that better captures applicable exemptions and reliefs within payroll systems.
For taxpayers with additional sources of income, the system will generate partially completed returns containing basic details and withholding tax information, alongside a redesigned dashboard that offers clearer visibility of invoices and trade-related activities.
KRA says the WhatsApp filing option marks the first step in a series of planned upgrades intended to streamline tax administration and improve compliance.
