KRA Introduces WhatsApp Service for Tax Filing, eTIMS and More
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has rolled out a new WhatsApp chatbot service to make tax filing and other essential services more accessible, allowing Kenyans to handle their tax obligations directly from their phones without visiting KRA offices or relying solely on the iTax portal.
Announced on Thursday, January 22, 2026, by Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga, the 24/7 chatbot offers up to 15 KRA services, including tax return filing, PIN management, tax queries, eTIMS invoicing, and digital self-service options. This initiative is part of KRA's broader push to digitize and simplify compliance, especially for taxpayers who may lack reliable internet, smartphones, or digital expertise for traditional online platforms.
To use the service, taxpayers simply save the official KRA WhatsApp number +254 711099999 in their contacts and start a conversation by sending "Hi" or "Menu." The bot then prompts users for identity verification before presenting a menu of available options. For tax filing specifically, the chatbot provides step-by-step guidance on completing returns through the iTax system, including required documents and processes.
Wattanga emphasized the convenience, stating: “You can file returns via WhatsApp and through the web. Just ask a query via our 24-hour WhatsApp chatbot, where we have 15 services that can be served through our WhatsApp platform.” This complements KRA's earlier USSD service (*222#) for basic phones, further reducing barriers to compliance.
The launch aligns with KRA's ongoing technological upgrades, including greater use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics to improve tax management and boost revenue collection. Authority Chairman Ndiriitu Muriithi expressed optimism about hitting the KSh 2.968 trillion target for the 2025/26 financial year, noting a required 15.4% growth from the previous year's KSh 2.572 trillion.
By leveraging widely used platforms like WhatsApp, KRA aims to enhance efficiency, eliminate paper-based processes, and encourage timely compliance amid the current tax season. Taxpayers are advised to use only the official number to avoid scams and verify details through trusted channels.
