Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has introduced a new mobile phone application that will enable taxpayers to access tax services from the comfort of their handsets.
This new mobile App branded KRA M-Service App will enable users to do PIN registration and verification processes as well as file their returns and make their tax payments.
According to Caxton Masudi, KRA Deputy Commissioner Policy and Tax Advisory at the Domestic Taxes Department, the new App will allow taxpayers to transact on the go and meet their tax obligations.
He said that over 100,000 Kenyans have so far downloaded the mobile App.
This platform will be available to all taxpayers who have access to a smartphone and can download it from Google Play Store.
KRA is said to be working with other software developers to ensure the App is up and running on App Store by close of this year.
The tax authority is relying on this platform to widen its reach, increase revenue collection and ensure tax compliance.
KRA plans to progressively introduce new functionalities to the App, such as having a Swahili version of the App as well as introducing a USDD version of domestic taxes.
The mobile App will also be connected to the Integrated Customs Management System (iCMS) to allow importers and exporters do functions such as filling out Customs Entry Declaration Status and Passenger Declaration Forms.
KRA has also introduced a Digital Service Tax (DST), as it targets firms operating in the digital market space. This new tax takes effect from January 1st, 2021 as per the Finance Act 2020.
Firms operating in the digital space will pay this tax, through income derived from services offered through a digital platform, in Kenya.
Those targeted include firms that run online electronic platforms that link them to markets for goods and services.
The Digital Services Tax is 1.5% of the total transaction value. It is due at the time of transfer of payment for the goods or service given out by the provider.
“This year’s Taxpayers Month is themed “Enhancing tax administration for economic sustainability”. The celebrations are special as KRA is also marking its Twenty Fifth (25th) Anniversary since the Authority was organised,” said Grace Wandera, KRA Deputy Commissioner in charge of Marketing and Communication.
The event will be celebrated with a Taxpayers Award Ceremony to be graced by His Excellency President Uhuru Kenyatta on November 6th, 2020.
