Filing deadlines and record-keeping requirements depend on your tax type and taxpayer status, and they can change. Check the latest KRA filing guidance before you plan. KRA has also announced that individual income tax filing deadlines will change from 2027; see its current guidance on the 2026 Finance Act.
Good records make it easier to prepare a return and answer questions about the figures. Set aside a little time throughout the year to organize them instead of trying to rebuild everything when a deadline is near.
Records to organize
Keep business records relevant to the taxes you file, such as:
- Sales invoices and receipts
- Purchase invoices and expense records
- Bank and mobile money statements
- Records of refunds, transfers, and other adjustments
- Previous returns and tax calculations
KRA requires people engaged in business to use eTIMS and issue electronic tax invoices, subject to specific rules. Check KRA's eTIMS guidance for the requirements and options that apply to your business.
Review your records before filing
Use a consistent process to check that the amounts in your sales, expense, and payment records agree. Look into differences before filing; they may come from timing, refunds, missing entries, or a record assigned to the wrong transaction.
For expenses, keep the documents and electronic tax invoices required for your situation. If you are unsure whether an expense is allowable or what evidence you need, check KRA guidance or ask a qualified tax adviser.
Keep business activity organized
SokoWise can help you record sales and expenses and review business activity in one place. You can use those records as part of your preparation, then check them against bank and mobile money statements and the documentation required by KRA.
A simple monthly routine
Once a month, set aside time to:
- Review recorded sales and invoices.
- Add expenses and keep the supporting documents.
- Compare payment records with deposits and investigate differences.
- Check that tax invoices and other required records are available.
Regular reviews can make tax preparation more manageable. Before submitting a return, confirm the current rules, deadlines, and figures that apply to your business.