Treasury CS unveils new tax filing deadlines for PAYE employees, nil return filers

National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has announced new tax filing reforms targeting individual taxpayers and nil return filers in a bid to ease pressure on the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) online portal during the annual tax compliance period.

The changes follow the congestion experienced on the KRA system ahead of the June 30, 2026 tax filing deadline, as thousands of taxpayers rushed to submit their returns at the last minute.

Speaking during a local television interview on July 1, 2026, Mbadi said individuals whose employment income is taxed under the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system, as well as nil return filers, will now be required to submit their annual tax returns by April 30, instead of the traditional June 30 deadline.

“All Kenyans should remember that filing tax returns is both a duty and a legal obligation. Unfortunately, many people wait until the last day to file their returns,” Mbadi said.

He explained that the revised deadline is part of broader reforms intended to decongest the tax filing system and improve service delivery.

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“The reforms clearly provide that nil return filers and individuals whose income is taxed through the PAYE system will file their returns by April 30,” he added.

Under the new staggered filing framework, businesses with more complex tax obligations will continue filing separately, allowing sufficient time for detailed computations and reducing pressure on the KRA portal.

According to Mbadi, separating individual and business tax filing timelines will promote a more orderly and efficient tax administration process while enhancing compliance.

The Cabinet Secretary also dismissed criticism surrounding the reforms, describing some of the concerns as misinformation. He expressed confidence that Kenyans would ultimately appreciate the changes once they are fully implemented.

The Treasury says the reforms are aimed at improving efficiency in tax administration, increasing compliance, and eliminating the last-minute rush that has traditionally characterized the annual tax return filing period.

By Jonathan Mwinzi