KRA UPDATE: This is what you should now know as filing returns deadline looms

The deadline for filing tax returns is June, 30, 2018 and the Kenya Revenue Authority on Thursday gave a crucial update to all taxpayers.

Following complaints that a section of Kenyans had experienced difficulties in accessing the site’s features, KRA admitted that there was a system failure for a few hours but the issue had been rectified.

“We hereby apologize for the iTax system downtime experienced from late yesterday (Wednesday) to this morning (Thursday).

“We assure all taxpayers that the system is now up and running smoothly. Our service centres and offices are open to assist you.

“Check your name in the compliant list today,” they posted on their official social media pages.

Failure to file returns by the stipulated deadline will attract a Ksh 20,000 fine.

Earlier this week, it emerged that taxpayers will from next year be allowed to file their tax returns after the June 30 deadline.

The changes, which are contained in the Tax Procedures Act, take effect from July 1 but Kenyans must apply for extension of the tax filing period 30 days before the deadline.

Businesses which file their returns monthly will be allowed to seek extension 15 days before the due date.

Kenyans are in a rush to file taxes to avoid the penalty and long queues have been the norm at KRA headquarters in Times Tower, Nairobi.