KRA Announces New Tax Return Deadlines, Scraps Uniform June 30 Filing Date

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has introduced major changes to how Kenyans file their annual income tax returns, effectively ending the long-standing June 30 deadline.

Previously, taxpayers across the country worked towards a single filing date. As the deadline approached, many rushed to submit their returns, which often slowed down the iTax system.

To address this, the government has introduced a new approach that spreads filing timelines across different categories of taxpayers.

At the same time, KRA has continued to enforce strict compliance on monthly tax obligations, reminding employers to meet their PAYE deadlines.

On July 8, 2026, the authority issued a reminder urging employers and human resource managers to file June PAYE returns on time.

“Dear employer/HR, this is to notify you that you should file your PAYE returns by the 9th of this month. Head over to the iTax platform right now and get it done,” KRA said.

KRA Implements Major Tax Reforms Under Finance Act 2026

The changes are part of broader reforms under the Finance Act, 2026, which seek to restructure filing timelines.

According to Treasury, the move is meant to provide sufficient time for verification of returns before the next financial cycle.

The new system will take effect beginning with the 2026 year of income. As a result, taxpayers will follow the updated deadlines when filing returns in 2027.

Also Read: How to Apply for KRA Tax Refund in 2026

Different Deadlines for Taxpayers

Under the new framework, salaried employees whose income is fully taxed through Pay As You Earn (PAYE) will file their returns by April 30.

In contrast, Kenyans who file nil returns, including students, unemployed individuals, and inactive PIN holders, will submit their returns by January 31.

This structure groups taxpayers based on their income status and assigns each group a specific deadline.

Consequently, the approach aims to reduce congestion on the iTax platform and improve processing efficiency.

Despite the changes to annual filing, employers must continue meeting their monthly PAYE obligations.

KRA requires employers to file PAYE returns by the 9th of every month. Employers must deduct tax from employees’ salaries and remit both the tax and returns within the set timelines.

If employers fail to file or remit taxes on time, KRA will impose penalties and interest.

Also Read: KRA Announces 6-Month Tax Amnesty: Who Qualifies and How to Get 100% Penalty Waiver

Tax Amnesty Programme Now in Effect

Additionally, the Finance Act, 2026, introduces a six-month tax amnesty programme that started on July 1, 2026.

The programme allows taxpayers to receive waivers on penalties and interest linked to tax debts accumulated up to December 31, 2025.

Taxpayers who have already cleared their principal tax automatically qualify for the waiver. However, those with outstanding principal amounts must first settle the dues and apply through the iTax system before December 31, 2026.

Overall, the removal of a single filing deadline marks a shift in Kenya’s tax system.

Taxpayers will now follow timelines based on their category. Therefore, they need to understand their specific filing deadlines to avoid penalties once the changes take effect in 2027.

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Head of Public Service Felix Koskei interacting with KRA staff. PHOTO/KRA.