The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has adjusted the VAT return filing process effective from the February 2024 tax period, not the January 2024 tax period as planned.

In a notice issued on Monday, KRA said the modification is to ensure all VAT claims are supported by valid electronic invoices from KRA’s electronic tax register, the Tax Invoice Management System (TIMS).

“This adjustment is intended to ensure that all VAT claims are supported by valid TIMS/eTIMS generated tax invoices since any input VAT claim that is not validated through TIMS/eTIMS or against existing customs import declarations for import VAT claims will not be allowed.”

Further, KRA directed Kenyans to file their January VAT self-assessment returns by February 20.

“Upon rollout of the simplified VAT return, (taxpayers) will be required to confirm the accuracy of the declaration before submission of the return.”

At the end of last year, KRA upgraded its bulk invoice system for high-traffic businesses, beginning in January.

Establishments like supermarkets would be required to support expenses with an electronic transaction.