The Kenya Revenue Authority has clarified why Kenyans are receiving tax compliance messages not necessarily linked to their identities.
The tax agency addressed concerns after numerous Kenyans raised questions on social media about tax notifications intended for different individuals.
Multiple users reported receiving messages from the authority addressed to names they did not recognize.
KRA acknowledged the issue, explaining the messages might be intended for individuals who previously registered with the same phone number before it was reassigned to a new user.
“These messages could be meant for people who had registered with your current number before it was transferred to you,” the authority explained.
Some recipients expressed confusion, others frustration, stating they were repeatedly contacted about tax matters related to unfamiliar identities.
The notifications reminded recipients to file returns by the June 30 deadline. Some messages indicated that certain users had not submitted any returns since obtaining their PINs, prompting the tax authority to encourage filing.
“Dear xx, KRA has determined that you have yet to file tax returns for income received since your PIN was issued. Submit now via…” read one of the messages sent multiple times to various individuals.
Many users reported notifications stating they had earned salary and needed to file returns, despite not being employed and having no association with the names mentioned.
However, with KRA’s clarification, the issue is simply outdated contact information attached to phone numbers that have been reassigned to new subscribers.
This indicates that receiving such messages does not mean the notification recipients are being investigated for any tax issues.
The clarification comes as taxpayers rush to file annual tax returns before the June 30 deadline.
KRA has also increased efforts to promote tax compliance, sending reminders particularly to salaried Kenyans urging them to fulfill their obligations.
Tax filing has been simplified with KRA implementing a WhatsApp-based system where Kenyans can submit returns through a chatbot named Shuru.