How To File KRA Returns Using My Phone (Step-by-Step Guide)

Filing KRA returns is a legal requirement for all registered taxpayers in Kenya, whether you earned income or not. The good news is that you can file KRA returns using your phone without visiting cyber cafés or KRA offices.

This is a guide explains how to file KRA returns using your phone, including nil returns, requirements, deadlines, common errors, and solutions.

What You Need Before Filing KRA Returns on Your Phone

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

• A smartphone (Android or iPhone)
• Stable internet connection
• Your KRA PIN
• Your iTax password
• A working email address
• PDF reader (for viewing/downloads)

💡 Tip: Use Google Chrome on your phone for the best experience.

Types of KRA Returns You Can File Using Your Phone

You can file the following returns directly from your phone:

• Nil Returns – if you had no income
• Individual Income Tax Returns
• PAYE Returns
• VAT Returns
• Turnover Tax (TOT)

This guide focuses mainly on individual and nil returns, which most Kenyans search for online.

Step-by-Step: How To File KRA Returns Using My Phone

Step 1: Visit the KRA iTax Portal

Open your browser and go to:
👉 https://itax.kra.go.ke

Step 2: Log In to Your iTax Account

• Enter your KRA PIN
• Enter your iTax password
• Solve the security question
• Tap Login

Step 3: Go to “Returns”

Once logged in:

• Tap Returns
• Select File Return

Step 4: Choose the Correct Tax Obligation

• For most individuals, select Income Tax – Resident Individual
• Click Next

Step 5: Download the Return Form (Auto-Generated)

• Select the tax year (usually the previous year)
• Tap Download Return
• The form downloads automatically

On phones, this step is automatic — no manual uploading needed.

Step 6: Declare Your Income (Or Nil)

• If employed, income may already be pre-filled
• If self-employed: enter your earnings
• If you earned nothing: select Nil Return

Step 7: Submit Your Return

• Tap Submit
• Confirm submission

You will receive:

• An acknowledgement receipt
• A confirmation email from KRA

✅ You have successfully filed KRA returns using your phone.

How To File KRA Nil Returns Using My Phone

Nil returns apply if you did not earn any income during the tax year.

Follow the same steps above, then:

• Select Nil Return
• Confirm submission

Filing nil returns is mandatory, even if unemployed or a student.

When Is the Deadline for Filing KRA Returns?

• Annual deadline: 30th June every year
• Applies to all individuals, including nil filers

⚠️ Late filing penalty:

• KSh 2,000 for individuals
• KSh 20,000 for companies

Common Problems When Filing KRA Returns on Phone (And Solutions)

1. Forgot iTax Password

• Click Forgot Password
• Reset via email

2. Security Question Error

• Ensure correct capitalization
• Clear browser cache if needed

3. Return Won’t Submit

• Refresh the page
• Ensure all required fields are filled
• Try switching to the Chrome browser

4. Wrong Tax Obligation Selected

• Log out and restart the process
• Always choose Resident Individual unless advised otherwise

Can I File KRA Returns Without a Laptop?

Yes.
You can file KRA returns entirely using your phone without a computer or cyber café.

Is Filing KRA Returns Using My Phone Safe?

Yes. The KRA iTax portal is secure. However:

• Avoid public Wi-Fi
• Never share your KRA PIN or password
• Always log out after filing

Final Thoughts

Learning how to file KRA returns using my phone saves time, money, and unnecessary stress. Whether filing nil returns or declaring income, the KRA iTax system is mobile-friendly and accessible to everyone in Kenya.

Make it a habit to file early and avoid penalties.