A KRA Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) is an official document issued by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to show that a taxpayer has met their tax obligations.
The certificate is commonly required when applying for government tenders, certain licences, jobs, work permits and other official services.
The good news is that you can apply for your TCC online through the KRA iTax portal.
KRA TCC Requirements
Before applying for a Tax Compliance Certificate, make sure your tax affairs are up to date.
Generally, you should have:
- A valid KRA PIN. ( check out our blog on How to Check Your KRA PIN Online in Kenya)
- Filed all required tax returns.
- Paid all taxes that are due.
- Cleared outstanding tax debts and penalties.
- Complied with the tax obligations applicable to you.
For businesses, additional tax obligations may apply depending on the nature of the business.
How to Apply for a KRA Tax Compliance Certificate
You can apply for a KRA TCC online using the iTax portal.
Step 1: Visit the KRA iTax Portal
Go to the KRA iTax portal and log in using your KRA PIN and password.
Make sure you enter the correct login details and complete any security verification required.
Step 2: Select the TCC Application
After logging in, go to the certificates section and select the option to Apply for Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC).
The system will open the TCC application form.
Step 3: Check Your Details
Some of your information will be automatically displayed by the system.
Check details such as your:
- Name.
- KRA PIN.
- Address.
- Telephone number.
- Email address.
- Business information, where applicable.
Correct any information that needs updating before submitting the application.
You will also need to select the reason for applying for the certificate.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Review the information carefully before submitting the application.
Once everything is correct, submit your TCC application through iTax.
Step 5: Wait for KRA to Process the Application
KRA will check your tax compliance status.
If your tax obligations are up to date, your application may be approved and the certificate made available for download.
If there are outstanding returns, taxes, penalties or other compliance issues, you may be required to resolve them before the certificate is issued.
Step 6: Download Your TCC
Once your application is approved, you will receive an approval notification on the iTax portal.
You can then download your Tax Compliance Certificate and use it for the purpose for which it was requested.
Why Your TCC Application May Be Rejected
Not every TCC application is automatically approved.
Common issues that may affect an application include:
- Unfiled tax returns.
- Outstanding taxes.
- Unpaid penalties.
- Incomplete tax obligations.
- Incorrect taxpayer information.
- Outstanding compliance issues.
- Issues identified during a tax review or audit.
If your application is unsuccessful, check the reason provided by KRA and resolve the outstanding issue before applying again.
How Long Is a KRA Tax Compliance Certificate Valid?
A Tax Compliance Certificate is generally valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
However, you should always check the validity details on the certificate you receive, particularly when submitting it for an official application.
Key Takeaways
Getting a KRA Tax Compliance Certificate is relatively straightforward when your tax affairs are in order.
The main steps are:
- Log in to the KRA iTax portal.
- Select the TCC application option.
- Confirm your taxpayer details.
- Submit the application.
- Resolve any outstanding tax issues if required.
- Download the approved certificate.
The best way to avoid delays is to file your returns on time, pay taxes when due, and keep your KRA records up to date.
