The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has unveiled a new WhatsApp-based service that allows taxpayers to generate Electronic Tax Invoice Management System (eTIMS) invoices directly from their phones.
The move is expected to simplify tax compliance, especially for small business owners, freelancers, and informal traders who often struggle with complex systems and processes.
Unlike traditional methods, the service requires no app downloads, no office visits, and no technical expertise—just a smartphone and WhatsApp access.
How the WhatsApp Service Works
The service operates through KRA’s official WhatsApp number +254 711 099 999 and is powered by a virtual assistant known as the Shuru Chatbot.
To begin:
- Save the number +254 711 099 999
- Open WhatsApp and send “Hi” or “Menu”
- The chatbot will respond with a list of services
From the menu, select eTIMS Invoice, which allows you to generate a fully compliant tax invoice instantly.
Step-by-Step Invoice Generation
Once you select the eTIMS option, the chatbot guides you through a simple process:
- Login: Enter your KRA PIN
- Verification: Receive and input a one-time password (OTP) sent to your registered number
- Input Details:
- Goods or services sold
- Quantity
- Selling price
- Confirm Information: Review all details before submission
After confirmation, the system generates the invoice immediately.
A downloadable link is then sent directly in the chat, allowing you to:
- Download the invoice as a PDF
- Share it instantly with your customer
The final document includes the official eTIMS logo and meets all compliance requirements.
Designed for Everyday Kenyans
According to the Kenya Revenue Authority, this innovation is aimed at making tax compliance as simple as sending a WhatsApp message.
This is particularly significant for:
- Small-scale traders in markets
- Online sellers and freelancers
- Service providers without formal systems
By removing barriers like complicated software and physical visits, KRA is pushing for wider tax inclusion.
Other Services Available on Shuru Chatbot
Beyond invoice generation, the WhatsApp chatbot offers a wide range of tax services, including:
- KRA PIN registration
- Filing Turnover Tax (TOT)
- Filing Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Filing Pay As You Earn (PAYE)
- Rental Income Tax services
- Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) application
These services are available 24/7, giving taxpayers flexibility and convenience.
Why This Matters
This new system could be a game-changer for Kenya’s tax ecosystem.
Key Benefits:
- Convenience: No need for laptops or cyber cafes
- Accessibility: Works on basic smartphones
- Speed: Instant invoice generation
- Compliance: Helps businesses stay within legal requirements
For many informal businesses, this could be the easiest entry point into formal tax compliance.
The Bigger Picture
KRA’s move aligns with the government’s broader push to digitize services and expand the tax base.
By targeting small and informal businesses—who form a large part of Kenya’s economy—the authority is aiming to:
- Increase revenue collection
- Improve transparency
- Reduce tax evasion
At the same time, the simplified system ensures that compliance does not become a burden.
Conclusion
The Kenya Revenue Authority WhatsApp eTIMS service marks a major shift toward user-friendly taxation in Kenya.
For millions of Kenyans, generating a tax invoice is now as easy as sending a message—eliminating long queues, complex systems, and unnecessary stress.
As adoption grows, this innovation could significantly reshape how small businesses interact with the tax system.