Kenya Revenue Authority: iTax System Authentication Procedure Now Mandatory

• KRA has introduced a new authentication procedure for mobile phone contacts linked to the iTax system.
• The verification process involves entering a unique verification code on the iTax portal or mobile app.
• Taxpayers who fail to authenticate their mobile phone contacts risk facing penalties or delays in accessing their accounts.
• Compliance officers and lawyers should be aware of the potential impact on clients' tax obligations and filing deadlines.

The introduction of this new authentication procedure is in line with KRA's efforts to strengthen security measures and prevent tax evasion.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has introduced a new authentication procedure for mobile phone contacts linked to the iTax system. This development is aimed at enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access to taxpayers' accounts. As part of this initiative, KRA will send SMS notifications to registered mobile phone numbers requesting users to authenticate their contacts through a unique verification code. The verification process involves entering the provided code on the iTax portal or mobile app to complete the authentication.

The introduction of this new authentication procedure is in line with KRA's efforts to strengthen security measures and prevent tax evasion. Under the Income Tax Act, 2015, taxpayers are required to register for an iTax account and provide accurate information, including mobile phone contacts. The new authentication process is designed to ensure that only authorized individuals have access to taxpayers' accounts, thereby preventing identity theft and unauthorized transactions.

The implementation of this new authentication procedure has significant implications for taxpayers in Kenya. Compliance officers and lawyers should be aware of the potential impact on clients' tax obligations and filing deadlines. Taxpayers who fail to authenticate their mobile phone contacts risk facing penalties or delays in accessing their accounts. As such, it is essential for taxpayers to familiarize themselves with this new procedure and take necessary steps to comply.

Lawyers and compliance officers should watch for the new iTax system authentication procedure, which may impact clients' tax obligations or filing deadlines.

Source: Original reporting via Kenya Revenue Authority public notices