No P9 Form? KRA Provides Alternative For Filing Income Tax Returns

As the June 30 deadline fast approaches, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has offered a vital lifeline to employees who have yet to receive their P9 forms from their employers.

In a recent clarification shared on X (formerly Twitter), the tax authority confirmed that taxpayers can still fulfill their annual obligations even without the traditional summary of earnings. KRA advised those in this position to utilize the “ITR for Employment Income Only” option available on the iTax portal.

“Please note you can use the ITR For Employment Income Only option on iTax if you do not have a P9 form,” the authority stated in response to a taxpayer seeking guidance.

Understanding the ITR Option

An Income Tax Return (ITR) is the official declaration of annual income, expenses, and tax liabilities submitted to the KRA. While the P9 form—which summarizes annual pay, PAYE deductions, and statutory contributions like the Housing Levy—is the standard reference for this process, the ITR option allows individuals to proceed using their own payroll records or payslips.

This alternative ensures that taxpayers are not held back by administrative delays at their workplace, allowing them to:

• Declare total annual earnings.

• Verify taxes already paid through the PAYE system.

• Claim eligible tax refunds.

Beat the June 30 Deadline

The KRA’s guidance serves as a timely reminder that the responsibility to file rests with the individual, regardless of whether an employer has issued the necessary documentation.

Failing to submit returns by the June 30 deadline typically attracts significant penalties. By using the “Employment Income Only” feature, Kenyans can ensure they remain tax-compliant and avoid last-minute rushes or fines, provided they have accurate records of their monthly income and deductions for the year.