The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has extended the deadline for filing annual tax returns by 24 hours, offering a reprieve to thousands of last-minute filers across the country. The new deadline is now set for midnight, July 1, 2025.
In a statement issued on Sunday, KRA said: “Tumefungua service lane! 24-hour extension up to tomorrow, 1st July 2025, midnight to file and pay your returns!” The announcement comes amid a surge in online traffic and visits to KRA offices by taxpayers rushing to meet the original June 30 deadline.
To accommodate the rush, the authority has also extended its working hours on Monday, July 1, promising enhanced service delivery and support to facilitate compliance. “We have extended our working hours tomorrow to serve you better,” the KRA stated.
Filing tax returns is a legal requirement under Kenyan law for all eligible taxpayers. While many believe this obligation applies only to salaried employees, KRA has clarified that business owners, landlords, farmers, and even individuals without income must also file returns.
Those without income are required to submit a NIL return, confirming they had no taxable income during the year. Additionally, employees whose employers already deduct and remit Pay As You Earn (PAYE) must still file their returns independently.
For self-employed individuals, including those earning rental income or engaged in agriculture, declaring all sources of income is mandatory. Non-compliance with this requirement attracts penalties. KRA levies a fine of five per cent of the tax due or Ksh2,000—whichever is higher—for late submissions.
The 24-hour extension is a welcome relief for taxpayers who may have faced technical issues or delays in accessing the iTax system, especially during peak filing hours. However, KRA has urged Kenyans not to wait until the final hours to comply, noting that timely filing avoids last-minute pressure and penalties.
As the new midnight deadline looms, the authority continues to encourage digital filing and has deployed additional support staff at key Huduma Centres and KRA offices nationwide. Taxpayers are advised to take advantage of the final grace period to remain compliant and avoid unnecessary fines.
