The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has launched a new feature on its iTax platform allowing taxpayers to log in using their national ID numbers, in a move aimed at simplifying tax filing and boosting compliance.
Announced on August 4, the new login option complements the existing PIN-based access, offering Kenyans a more familiar and easily remembered identifier to access tax services. KRA said the initiative is part of broader efforts to modernise tax administration and enhance the user experience.
“This move is part of an ongoing campaign by the authority to simplify tax processes, enhance user experience, and promote a more customer-centric approach to tax administration,” the authority said in a statement.
The change is expected to address common challenges faced by taxpayers, particularly those who frequently forget their Personal Identification Numbers (PINs), which previously served as the only login credential for the iTax system. The new system offers greater convenience, especially for first-time users and occasional filers.
KRA noted that the decision was informed by user feedback, which revealed that national ID numbers are easier to recall and more commonly used in day-to-day identification compared to KRA PINs.
By reducing login friction and improving accessibility, the authority hopes to encourage more Kenyans to file returns, apply for compliance certificates, make payments, and conduct other tax-related transactions digitally.
The iTax platform remains central to Kenya’s tax administration system, and this development is expected to support KRA’s ongoing efforts to expand the tax base and promote voluntary compliance.
The rollout also comes as KRA reported a 117.2% increase in betting excise tax revenue, collecting Sh13.2 billion in the 2024–25 financial year. The growth has been attributed to enhanced real-time monitoring and integration of systems with betting firms.
“KRA will continue to listen to taxpayers and make changes that reflect their needs and experiences,” the authority stated, reaffirming its commitment to leveraging technology for a more efficient and user-friendly tax system.