Ever hit ‘submit’ on your iTax return and immediately felt that cold sweat? Maybe you forgot an expense from that Mombasa trip, or you mixed up figures at 2 AM trying to beat the deadline. You’re not alone. In Kenya, filing the wrong tax return happens more often than you think, but ignoring it is not an option.
This guide walks you through the exact steps to correct your mistake on the KRA iTax portal. We’ll cover how to file an amendment, what documents you need, and how to avoid penalties that can eat into your hard-earned cash. Let’s fix this.
Don’t Panic, But Don’t Ignore It Either
First things first, take a deep breath. The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) understands errors happen. However, leaving a mistake uncorrected is where real trouble starts. KRA’s system automatically cross-checks data.
If they find a discrepancy before you do, you could face penalties and interest. These charges add up quickly, turning a small error into a major financial headache. Proactively correcting your return shows good faith and can save you money.
Common Mistakes Kenyans Make on iTax
Knowing the usual suspects helps you spot your own error. Here are the frequent fliers:
- Wrong Income Figures: Entering gross instead of net, or forgetting side hustle income from your weekend gig.
- Misplaced Expenses: Claiming personal costs as business expenses, or missing valid deductions like your NSSF contribution.
- Wrong Tax Band: Selecting an incorrect tax relief or getting the monthly payee calculation wrong.
- Filing the Wrong Form: Using ITR-F for employment income instead of the simpler P9A, or vice-versa for business.
Step-by-Step: How to Amend Your iTax Return
Correcting your return is done through an ‘Amendment’ process on iTax. You can’t delete the wrong one, but you can file a corrected version. Follow these steps.
Step 1: Log In and Navigate to Amendments
Go to itax.kra.go.ke and log in with your KRA PIN and password. Once in your dashboard, look for the ‘Returns’ menu. Click on it and select ‘Amendment’. You’ll see a list of previously filed returns. Find the one for the wrong year and period.
Step 2: Select the Return to Amend
Click on the specific return you need to correct. The system will open it. Now, carefully review all the fields. Correct every single error you find—don’t just fix the one you noticed. This is your chance to get it 100% right.
Step 3: Re-file with Correct Information
After making all corrections, proceed to validate and submit the amended return, just like you did the first time. The system will generate a new acknowledgment slip. Download and save this slip immediately. It’s your proof that you filed the amendment.
Step 4: What Happens Next?
iTax will process the amendment. If your correction means you underpaid, you’ll need to pay the balance plus any accrued interest. If you overpaid, you can apply for a refund. Monitor your iTax dashboard for any notifications or assessments from KRA.
The Kenyan-Specific Reality: Timelines, Penalties, and Pro Tips
This isn’t just theory. Let’s talk about the real-world implications in Kenya’s context. The clock starts ticking from the original filing deadline.
If you file an amendment that results in more tax before KRA audits you, you’ll only pay interest at 1% per month. If KRA finds the error first, you get hit with a penalty of 10% to 30% of the tax due, plus that 1% monthly interest. That’s a serious dent.
Local Pro Tips to Smooth the Process
- Have Your Documents Ready: Before you start the amendment, gather all your paperwork. This includes your original P9 from your employer, bank statements (especially for M-Pesa business transactions), receipts for claimed expenses, and your previous return’s acknowledgment slip.
- Use the Right Support Channels: If you get stuck, don’t just go to Times Tower without an appointment. First, call the KRA call centre (0711 099 999). For complex issues, book an online appointment via iTax to visit your local KRA station—like the one on Nkrumah Road in Mombasa or at Anniversary Towers in Nairobi—to avoid a whole-day queue.
- Mind the “iTax Downtime”: Never wait until the last day of the deadline to amend. iTax often gets sluggish or goes down for maintenance near major deadlines. Aim to finish at least 3 working days before any payment or submission cut-off.
When to Get Professional Help (And What It Costs)
For simple errors on employment income (P9A), you can DIY. But if you have a business, run a partnership, or the mistake involves complex capital allowances, get a certified tax agent. In Nairobi, a professional amendment for a small business can cost between KES 3,000 to KES 10,000.
This is worth it to ensure it’s done perfectly and to have an expert handle any follow-up queries from KRA. Ask for referrals from other business owners in your circle.
How to Avoid Future iTax Filing Mistakes
Prevention is better than cure, especially with KRA. Build a simple system to make next year’s filing stress-free.
Keep Digital Records All Year
Don’t wait for June to scramble for receipts. Use your phone. Create a dedicated album for expense receipts. Use a simple spreadsheet or a local app to track income monthly. When you get your annual P9, cross-check it with your own records immediately.
File Early, Not at Midnight on Deadline Day
The deadline rush is the mother of all errors. Filing early gives you time to spot mistakes, seek clarification, and amend calmly if needed. Treat the official deadline as your personal “absolute last minute” warning.
Your Clear Path Forward
Filing the wrong tax return on iTax is a fixable problem. The key is to act now. Log in, navigate to the amendment section, and submit the correct information. Save your new acknowledgment slip. If you owe more, plan to pay promptly to stop interest from growing.
Remember, compliance is easier than dealing with penalties. By taking these steps, you clear your conscience and keep your finances in good standing with KRA. Now, go and fix that return.
