What is a KRA PIN?
A Personal Identification Number (PIN) is used for conducting business with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), various government agencies, and other service providers. This PIN is essential for both individuals and entities such as companies, clubs, and trusts. Sole proprietorships use the proprietor’s individual PIN for all transactions.
Who Needs a KRA PIN?
You are required to have a KRA PIN if you:
- Are employed
- Are in business
- Have rental income
- Wish to apply for a HELB Loan
- Want to perform transactions such as registering a business, applying for permits, or conducting various other official activities
When Can I Use the KRA PIN?
The KRA PIN is needed for a wide range of transactions, including:
- Land Transactions: Registration of title, stamping of instruments by the Commissioner of Lands, and payment of Land Rent.
- Local Authorities: Approval of plans, payment of water deposits, application for business permits, and payment of Land Rent.
- Motor Vehicles: Registration and licensing under the Traffic Act by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles.
- Business and Trade: Registration of Business Names and Companies, trade licensing by the Ministry of Commerce, and VAT registration.
- Insurance: Underwriting policies by insurance companies.
- Import and Export: Customs clearing and forwarding.
- Utilities: Payment of deposits for power connections at Kenya Power and Lightning Co. Ltd.
- Government Contracts: Facilitate all contracts for supplying goods and services to government ministries and public bodies.
How to Register for a KRA PIN in iTax Portal
To obtain a KRA PIN, you need to apply through the KRA iTax Portal. Here’s how:
- Visit the KRA iTax Portal
- Go to KRA iTax Portal.
- New PIN Registration
- On the homepage, select “New PIN Registration.”
- Select Taxpayer Type
- Choose whether you are an Individual or Non-individual and select the Mode of Registration (Online or Upload Form).
- Complete the Registration Form
- For Non-individuals, the form will include categories such as Basic Information, Obligation, Director Associates, and Agent Details. Complete all mandatory details and attach the required documents.
- Submit and Confirm
- After submission, confirm your email address if prompted. Your PIN will be displayed on the iTax page and emailed to you.
- Create Your iTax Login Password
- Log in to your email to find your iTax PIN and generated password. Visit the KRA iTax Portal to change your password and set up a security question.
Documents Required for iTax PIN Registration
- For Companies:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- CR12 (a document listing shareholders or directors)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (optional)
- PIN Certificate for one of the company’s directors
- Tax Compliance Certificate for one of the company’s directors
- Acknowledgement Receipt
- For Partnership Firms:
- Acknowledgement Receipt
- PIN Certificate for one of the partners
- Deed of Partnership (optional)
- Tax Compliance Certificate of the partners (optional)
FAQs on KRA PIN Registration
How can I get my KRA PIN online?
Apply for PIN registration via the KRA iTax Portal.
How much does it cost to apply for a KRA PIN?
Registration is free of charge.
How long does it take to get a KRA PIN?
Your KRA PIN will be displayed immediately upon successful submission of the registration form and can also be downloaded and printed.
How do I register my KRA PIN in iTax?
Visit KRA iTax Portal, select “New PIN Registration,” and follow the instructions.
What should I do if I lose or forget my KRA PIN?
If you lose or forget your KRA PIN, you can easily retrieve it by visiting the KRA iTax portal and clicking on the ‘Forgot PIN’ option. Follow the prompts to enter your details, and your PIN will be sent to your registered email address.
As a student with no source of income, do I need to file tax returns?
Yes, if you have a KRA PIN, you are required to file nil returns even if you have no source of income during the tax year. This ensures your tax record with KRA remains up to date.
What do I need to register for KRA PIN as a student?
To register as a student, you will need the following documents:
- Original Passport, Student ID, and copies of both documents
- Letter of introduction from the administration of your institute of learning or an internship letter
- Student/internship/research pass and the endorsed page of the student/internship/research pass
- KRA Acknowledgement Receipt
Can I use the KRA iTax system without a KRA PIN?
No, you cannot access the iTax system without a KRA PIN. The PIN serves as your individual identification for all tax-related matters, making it essential to obtain one before using the iTax system.
Tax Identification Made Simple
Simplifying tax identification can ease the compliance process. For a broader understanding of how tax identification works globally, explore our articles on How to Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) in Rwanda, How to Check Your TPIN Number in Zambia, and Taxpayer Registration on the TARMS Self-Service Portal.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of obtaining and using a KRA PIN, facilitating various transactions and ensuring compliance with Kenyan tax regulations.