KRA Urges Kenyans to Avoid Last-Minute Tax Amnesty Rush Ahead of 2026 Deadline
KRA reminds taxpayers to settle outstanding taxes by Dec 31, 2026, to benefit from 100% penalty waiver under the Tax Amnesty Programme.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 22, 2026
2 min read
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has called on taxpayers to take advantage of the 2026 Tax Amnesty Programme ahead of the December 31 deadline. The move aims to encourage individuals and businesses to clear outstanding tax obligations and avoid last-minute applications.
In a statement posted on its official X account on August 22, 2026, KRA urged taxpayers to log into the iTax portal and apply for the amnesty, emphasizing the benefits of settling dues early.
Key Features of the 2026 Tax Amnesty Programme
- 100% waiver on penalties and interest: Taxpayers who pay the principal tax owed by December 31, 2026, will have all penalties and interest waived.
- Eligibility: The amnesty covers tax debts accrued on or before December 31, 2025. Taxpayers who have already cleared principal taxes for eligible periods automatically qualify for the waiver without further application.
- Payment options: Those with outstanding principal tax can either pay in full or apply for a structured payment plan via iTax, provided payments are completed before the deadline.
- Additional qualifiers: Taxpayers with no principal tax but with late filing penalties can qualify by submitting outstanding returns. Those involved in active tax disputes can settle principal tax through the Alternative Dispute Resolution framework to benefit from the waiver.
Exclusions and Important Notes
- The amnesty does not apply to tax liabilities arising from January 1, 2026, onwards. Such debts must be settled under regular tax laws.
- Taxpayers are advised to resolve any pending amendments, objections, or payment reconciliation before the amnesty period ends.
- Successful applicants will receive an amnesty certificate via their registered iTax email, also accessible through their iTax account.
KRA has emphasized the importance of early application to avoid the rush as the December 31, 2026 deadline approaches, encouraging taxpayers to regularise their tax affairs promptly to remain compliant.
