A Beginner's Guide to Understanding iTax

iTax is a system developed by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to enable taxpayers to make tax payments and file tax returns online. Users can perform several important functions through this system, including:

1. PIN Registration: Individuals and businesses can register for a Personal Identification Number.
2. Tax Return Filing: The platform enables users to submit their tax returns electronically.
3. Tax Compliance Certificate Application: Users can apply for and obtain tax compliance certificates.
4. Payment Slip Generation: iTax allows for the creation of payment slips for tax-related transactions.
5.  Ledger Account Access: Users can view and check their ledger accounts for up-to-date tax remittance information.

• Online Tax Registration: Taxpayers can register and update their tax registration details for various tax obligations through the iTax portal. These obligations include income tax, VAT, rental income, PAYE, and withholding tax.
• Electronic Tax Filing: Taxpayers can file their tax returns, including income tax, PAYE, and VAT, online through the iTax system using Microsoft Excel or OpenOffice.
• Online Tax Payments: Taxpayers can make tax payments electronically through various payment channels integrated with iTax by generating payment slips.
• Tax Ledger Account: Taxpayers can view their tax account statements, track payments, and manage their tax obligations on the iTax platform.
• Tax Certificates: Taxpayers can view and reprint their tax compliance and withholding certificates through iTax.

The iTax system offers numerous benefits to taxpayers and tax authorities alike. Some of the key advantages are:

• Taxpayer Ledger Access: Both individuals and employees can view their tax records, including PAYE deductions.
• Real-time Updates: The taxpayer's ledger is immediately updated upon filing returns and making payments.
• Convenient Accessibility: Users can access iTax from their office or home, providing flexibility.
• Multiple Payment Options: An increasing number of banks and mobile payments options are being added to facilitate convenient domestic tax payments.
• Simplified Tax Returns: The system uses an Excel-based format, making it easier for users to file domestic tax returns.
• Time-saving Features: Quick processing of tax-related services, such as Tax Compliance Certificates, refunds, amendments, waivers, and tax exemptions
• Refund Management: Taxpayers can use approved refunds to offset other tax liabilities, reducing refund backlogs.
• Enhanced Communication: Users receive email and SMS notifications upon completing transactions.
• Electronic Certificate Generation: The system can generate various certificates electronically, including PIN, Withholding Tax certificates, Tax Compliance and Exemption Certificates.
• User-friendly Interface: iTax returns are Excel-based, making them easy to use and capable of handling large amounts of data.
• Reduced Physical Documentation: The need for KRA officers to request physical records from taxpayers is significantly decreased, minimizing inconvenience.

You can access iTax online through the KRA website or by visiting a KRA office in person. To access iTax:

1. Go to the KRA website at www.kra.go.ke.
2. Click on the iTax portal banner on the website this will take you to the iTax portal.

Kenyan taxpayers have several resources available to learn more about iTax:

• KRA Website: The official KRA website hosts user guides and other informational materials, features and tutorials about iTax.
• Registered Tax Agents: KRA-registered Tax Agents, including members of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) and Law Society of Kenya (LSK), are authorized to use iTax on behalf of taxpayers using their own login credentials.
• KRA Customer Service: Taxpayers can contact KRA's customer service for direct assistance with iTax-related queries.

For support with iTax-related issues, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) offers multiple channels of customer assistance:

1. Phone Support : Call +254 20 4 999 999, Alternatively, dial +254 711 099 999
2. Email Support : Send your inquiries to callcentre@kra.go.ke
3. KRA Social Media Platforms : Send a direct message (DM) via Facebook or Twitter using the official KRA pages.
4. Online Support : The KRA website provides an option to submit questions directly through their online platform.

Official KRA Website

iTax Portal

How to Register for iTax