Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has unveiled simplified electronic Tax Invoice Management System (eTIMS) solutions for non-VAT registered taxpayers, including those in the informal sector and small businesses.
The new “eTIMS Lite” solutions aim to facilitate easier adoption of electronic invoicing for these groups.
“KRA remains committed to continue supporting and facilitating all taxpayers to comply with the requirements of the law by adopting a facilitative and collaborative approach to tax compliance,” the authority stated in a press release on March 4, 2024.
The simplified eTIMS solutions comprise a USSD invoicing option accessible through *222# and a web-based invoicing platform available at ecitizen.kra.go.ke. These solutions are designed to cater to the specific needs of informal sector players, such as farmers, jua kali traders, and artisans.
In addition to introducing the new solutions, KRA has also intensified publicity, awareness, and tax literacy efforts through continuous stakeholder engagements and taxpayer education programs targeted at the informal sector. “KRA has partnered with the informal sector representative groups and associations to facilitate direct support to taxpayers in these sectors to on board eTIMS,” the statement read.
The authority has extended an invitation to taxpayers and representative bodies experiencing challenges adopting the existing solutions to explore further customized options, including a reverse invoicing solution where buyers can issue invoices on behalf of sellers with their consent.
KRA has emphasized its commitment to collaborating with taxpayers and representative bodies to ensure compliance with the law while considering the unique needs of different sectors. “We wish to invite taxpayers and representative bodies who may experience challenges adopting the existing solutions to reach out to further explore solutions tailored to cater for their specific needs,” the statement added.