Kenyans can now file their tax returns via WhatsApp after the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) introduced a new tax platform aimed at boosting compliance and simplifying tax filing.
The new development was announced on Wednesday, April 1, by KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga.
“Filing your taxes just got easier. We have introduced simpler ways for you to file, and the biggest update is this: you can now file through WhatsApp. No new apps. No extra steps. Just open WhatsApp and get it done,” KRA announced on its social media pages.
According to the Taxman, the service offers a range of services, including tax payments, return filing, eTIMS services, applications for tax compliance certificates, PIN checks, and the option to speak with a KRA representative.
To get started, users are required to initiate a conversation on WhatsApp, using the official number (0711099999) and select the type of return they want to file.
To verify identity, users are required to enter their KRA PIN and complete the verification process.
The new platform addresses the challenges many Kenyans face when filing their returns. KRA maintained that the platform is user-friendly and that no expert assistance is needed to complete the process.
“Everything is designed to make filing easier, with less back-and-forth and less time spent trying to resolve issues. It also helps reduce anxiety around deadlines while giving you greater confidence and control over the process. You no longer need to be an expert to file, all you need to do is get started,” KRA stated.
“For many people, filing is not hard because it is complicated. It is hard because it feels like a process, logging in, resetting passwords, figuring out forms, starting, stopping, and coming back later,” it added.
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