Filing your KRA returns online is a straightforward process that all individuals with a KRA PIN must follow at the end of each financial year. Even if you are unemployed or have no income, filing nil returns is still mandatory. The process is quick, convenient, and done through the iTax platform, which is easy to navigate. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to file your KRA returns online, including how to file nil returns.
How To File KRA Returns Online
Filing your KRA returns online is easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps:
- Visit the KRA iTax Website
Open your browser and go to the official KRA iTax portal: https://itax.kra.go.ke/KRA-Portal/. - Log In to iTax
Use your KRA PIN and password to log into the portal. If you haven’t registered yet, you will need to create an account first. - Select the Returns Tab
On the iTax dashboard, find the “Returns” option in the navigation bar. Scroll down and click on “File Returns.” - Choose Your Tax Obligation
A page with different tax obligations will appear. Select the appropriate tax obligation that applies to you (e.g., individual tax return), then click “Next.” - Open the Tax Form
Based on the tax obligation selected, your applicable tax form will appear. This form will vary depending on whether you’re filing for personal income, business income, or other tax categories. - Follow the Instructions
The tax form comes with detailed instructions to guide you through the process. It’s important to read and follow these instructions carefully to avoid errors. - Download the Tax Form Template
On the instructions page, you’ll find links to download the tax form in Excel or ODS formats. Download the template and open it on your device. - Fill In Your Information
Fill in the required information on the downloaded form. This includes details like your income, allowable deductions, and other relevant tax data. Save the document once you’ve completed the form. - Enable Macros and Zip Your File
Before uploading the form, make sure you enable macros to validate the document. Then, zip the file to prepare it for upload. - Return to iTax
Go back to the iTax “File Returns” page and select the period for which you are filing your returns. - Upload Your Zip File
Upload the zip file containing the completed tax form. Agree to the terms and conditions, and click “Submit.” - Confirm Submission
A pop-up message will appear, confirming whether you want to upload the form. Click “OK” to finalize your submission. - Receive Confirmation
Once your return is successfully submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation message with your submission details. Ensure you keep this for your records.
How To File Nil Returns
Filing nil returns is just as simple, especially if you have no income to report. Here’s how to file nil returns:
- Go to the KRA iTax Website
Visit the iTax portal at https://itax.kra.go.ke/KRA-Portal/. - Log In
Enter your KRA PIN and password. You may be prompted to answer a security question. Once done, click “Log In.” - Select the Returns Tab
Navigate to the “Returns” tab in the main menu and select “File Nil Returns.” - Enter Your KRA PIN
A page will appear asking for your KRA PIN. Select “Income Tax Resident” and click “Next.” - Choose the Return Period
Select the tax return period and click “Submit.” - Confirmation Message
A pop-up message will confirm your submission and provide an acknowledgment number. - Download and Print
Download and print the return acknowledgment receipt for your records.
By following these easy steps, you can file your KRA returns or nil returns online with ease. Make sure to complete this process before the end of the financial year to stay compliant with the tax regulations. Filing your returns on time will help you avoid penalties and keep your tax records up to date.
