KRA: iTax experiencing high traffic as tax return deadline ends

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced that its iTax platform is experiencing unusually high traffic as millions of taxpayers rush to file their 2025 income tax returns ahead of Tuesday's filing deadline.

In a statement, the tax authority said the surge in users has caused intermittent delays, with some taxpayers experiencing difficulties accessing the online platform.

KRA said its technical teams are working around the clock to maintain system stability and minimise disruptions as the deadline draws to a close.

"As the filing deadline draws to a close today, the iTax portal has experienced a significant surge in traffic and, as a result, some users may experience intermittent delays. Our technical teams are working around the clock to maintain system stability and support," the authority said.

KRA thanked the millions of taxpayers who have already filed their returns and paid their taxes, acknowledging their continued compliance.

"The Kenya Revenue Authority appreciates the millions of taxpayers who have filed and paid their taxes to date," the statement said.

The authority urged taxpayers who have not yet submitted their returns to continue using the iTax portal or the USSD service to complete the process.

"KRA encourages taxpayers to visit the iTax portal or dial 2225# to file their tax returns," the statement added.

The tax authority appealed for patience as its teams continue working to ensure the system remains operational throughout the final hours of the filing period.

KRA ruled out any extension of the deadline for filing annual income tax returns, maintaining that all taxpayers must submit their returns by Tuesday, June 30, 2026.

The tax authority urged taxpayers who are yet to meet their legal obligation to take advantage of the extended working hours and support services it has put in place to beat the deadline.

It warned that failure to file returns on time could result in default assessments, penalties and interest.

"KRA wishes to remind taxpayers that there will be no extension of the filing deadline. All returns must be submitted on or before 30th June 2026, in accordance with the law. Taxpayers who fail to file by the deadline will be liable for the applicable penalties and may also be subject to default assessments," the commissioner in charge of Micro and Small Taxpayers said.

Aware that the final days before the deadline are often characterised by heavy traffic on its platforms, KRA said it has rolled out a range of support services to make the filing process easy and more convenient.

Taxpayers can file their returns through the iTax platform at itax.kra.go.ke, access assistance via WhatsApp on 0711 099 999, or use the eCitizen USSD service by dialling 2225#.

The authority has also extended operating hours at its Contact Centre, Huduma Centres, KRA Service Centres, social media support platforms and Ushuru Mashinani Service Partners across the country to ensure taxpayers receive timely assistance.