On 16^th April 2024, the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) organised a webinar in collaboration with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) technical teams to discuss critical tax administration issues affecting businesses and tax return filings. Led by KEPSA Public Finance Sector Board Chair CPA Rose Mwaura, KEPSA DCEO Mr Victor Ogalo, and Ms Alice Mutungi from KRA's Stakeholder Engagement Department, the event aimed to address key challenges faced by taxpayers and provide insights into potential solutions.

The webinar covered a range of topics, including but not limited to:

1. Off-setting Prior Year Tax Overpayments via Credit Adjustment Vouchers: KRA discussed the procedures and challenges related to offsetting prior year tax overpayments using credit adjustment vouchers.
2. KRA Audits and Closure Uncertainties: The webinar addressed concerns and uncertainties surrounding KRA audits and the closure process, highlighting areas where businesses often face challenges.
3. VAT Refunds: Participants shared experiences and concerns regarding Value Added Tax (VAT) refunds, focusing on the timeliness and efficiency of the refund process.
4. Challenges for Taxpayers Under Special Tax Regimes: Specific challenges faced by taxpayers operating under special tax regimes, such as the need to close the Personal Identification Number (PIN), were discussed to explore potential solutions.
5. Integration of Central Bank to iTax Platform: The webinar highlighted the integration of the Central Bank with the iTax platform and its implications for tax administration and compliance.
6. Refund of Approved Overpayments: KRA delved into the process and timelines for refunding approved overpayments, seeking clarity and efficiency in the refund mechanism.

During the webinar, stakeholders engaged in robust discussions and raised pertinent questions, seeking clarity and practical solutions to enhance tax compliance and administration processes. Participants expressed the importance of streamlined procedures, timely responses from KRA, and clear guidelines to facilitate smooth tax operations for businesses across sectors.

In response to the issues raised, KRA representatives provided insights, updates on ongoing initiatives, and commitments to address challenges highlighted during the webinar. They emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector and tax authorities in finding pragmatic solutions and improving overall tax administration efficiency.

The webinar concluded with a call for continued dialogue, collaboration, and proactive measures to enhance tax compliance, streamline processes, and support the growth of businesses in Kenya's dynamic economic landscape.