The Kenya Revenue Authority has announced plans to phase out the current Excel-based income tax return filing system and replace it with a modern web-based platform starting in 2027. This move is part of broader reforms aimed at making tax compliance easier for Kenyans and improving how KRA collects revenue.
For years, taxpayers have had to download Excel files, fill them in manually, and then upload them back to the KRA portal.
This process has been a source of frustration for many, especially those who are not very comfortable with spreadsheets. The new system will allow taxpayers to file their returns directly through a web browser without the hassle of dealing with Excel files.
KRA says this change will simplify the entire filing process and also improve the stability of their systems, reducing the chances of technical hitches that have plagued the current system.
The changes come hot on the heels of the Finance Act, 2026, which also introduced staggered filing deadlines starting from January 1, 2027.
Individual taxpayers will now have until April 30 to file their returns, while companies will continue to have until June 30. However, there is a catch for those filing nil returns they will be required to submit theirs as early as January 2027.
This means if you have no tax to pay, you will have to get your paperwork in order much earlier in the year.
In addition to the web-based platform, KRA is also expanding its use of technology to make tax filing even more accessible.
The authority plans to upgrade its AI-powered WhatsApp assistant, Shuru, to handle more complex tax returns. Shuru was initially designed for taxpayers with simple employment income, allowing them to file returns through a chat interface.
But now, KRA wants to make it possible for more people with different types of income to use the service. This means you could soon be filing your tax returns by simply sending messages on WhatsApp, something that will be a game-changer for many Kenyans who are already glued to the messaging app.
These reforms are clearly aimed at modernizing tax administration in Kenya and making it easier for people to comply with their tax obligations.
Whether you are a salaried employee, a business owner, or someone with multiple sources of income, the days of wrestling with Excel spreadsheets might soon be behind you.
KRA is betting that by simplifying the process and leveraging technology, they can get more people to file their returns on time and reduce the tax gap.
Only time will tell if these new systems will deliver on their promise, but for now, taxpayers can look forward to a less tedious filing experience starting in 2027.
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