KRA Moves Tax Return Deadline Two Months Earlier And Kenyans Must Prepare Before April 2027

The Kenya Revenue Authority has changed the deadline for individual taxpayers to file annual income tax returns. The date moves from June 30 to April 30 starting in 2027. The authority announced the change on October 29 through its official KRA Care account.

The new rule comes from the Finance Act 2026 and takes effect on January 1, 2027. It will first apply to returns for the 2026 year of income. Individuals must now file by the last day of the fourth month after the year ends. For January to December earners that date is April 30.

The change affects salaried employees and the self-employed alike. Workers whose income is fully taxed through PAYE must also meet the April 30 deadline. Returns for the 2025 year of income are not affected and still follow the June 30 date this year.

Nil returns will now be due by January 31 of the following year. This covers students and unemployed people with no taxable income. It also covers inactive PIN holders who are required to file.

Companies will keep their current timeline. They must file by the last day of the sixth month after their accounting period ends. A company with a December year end still files by June 30.

Late filing attracts a penalty for individuals. It is 5 per cent of the tax due or Ksh2,000 whichever is higher. Any balance of tax is also payable by April 30.

KRA has advised taxpayers to gather their records early. Employees should keep P9 forms and withholding certificates ready. They should also update their PIN and contact details on iTax. The first deadline under the new system will be January 31 for nil returns.

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