📝 Title:
How to Get a KRA Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) in Kenya – 2025 Guide
📌 Introduction
A Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) is one of the most requested documents for Kenyans applying for tenders, contracts, government jobs, bank loans, and supplier registrations. Issued by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), it confirms that your tax affairs are in order.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll break down how to apply, who qualifies, how long it takes — and how to avoid common pitfalls. ✅
📍 Table of Contents
- What Is a Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC)?
- Who Needs a TCC in Kenya?
- Requirements for Applying
- Step-by-Step: How to Apply on iTax
- Common Reasons for Rejection
- What to Do If You’re Non-Compliant
- TCC Validity & Renewal
- FAQs
- Need Help? Book a Free Tax Chat
✅ What Is a Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC)?
A TCC is a document issued by KRA that shows you’ve fulfilled your tax obligations, including filing returns and paying taxes on time. It’s mandatory for:
- Government tenders
- Public sector jobs
- NGO or UN applications
- Visa or immigration processes
- Corporate vendor registration
- Loan applications (e.g., banks, SACCOs)
👥 Who Needs a TCC?
| Category | Reason You Need a TCC |
|---|---|
| Individuals | Job applications, visa processing, credit checks |
| Sole proprietors | Contracts, tenders, digital services |
| Companies & SMEs | Supplier registration, licensing, tenders |
| NGOs & Institutions | Donor funding eligibility, compliance clearance |
| Consultants/Freelancers | Service contracts, digital platforms |
🧾 Requirements to Apply for TCC on iTax
- Active KRA PIN
- Filed all tax returns (PAYE, VAT, Income Tax, etc.)
- No pending tax liabilities or penalties
- Updated contact details (email & phone)
- iTax login access
💻 Step-by-Step: How to Apply for TCC on iTax
- Visit https://itax.kra.go.ke
- Login with your PIN and password
- Go to Certificates → Apply for Tax Compliance Certificate
- Fill in the reason (e.g., tender application, job application)
- Click Submit
- You’ll receive an acknowledgement receipt
- Approval typically takes 1–3 working days
- Once approved, download the TCC PDF from your iTax inbox
💡 Tip: You can verify a TCC’s authenticity at https://itax.kra.go.ke/KRA-Portal/ under “TCC Checker”.
⚠️ Common Reasons for TCC Rejection
- Unfiled returns for any tax obligation
- Outstanding tax liabilities or interest
- Dormant PIN or mismatch of business activity
- Incomplete VAT/PAYE obligations
- Discrepancies between bank income and declared tax
🚨 What to Do If You’re Non-Compliant
If your TCC is rejected, you may:
- File all missing returns (even NIL)
- Pay outstanding liabilities or apply for a waiver
- File a Voluntary Disclosure under KRA’s tax amnesty program
- Engage a tax professional (like Ushuru.com) to help you clean up your compliance record
📅 How Long Does a TCC Last?
- Validity: 12 months from the date of issue
- Renewal: Apply again once it expires — it’s free
- You don’t need to wait for expiry to apply for a new one if requested for fresh application purposes
🖼️ Suggested Image
Add this featured image above the intro:
Alt text: Digital certificate being approved on a laptop screen – minimalist illustration
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📹 Recommended Video Embed
YouTube: How to Apply for Tax Compliance Certificate on iTax (2024)
Place it right after the step-by-step guide section.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is a TCC free?
Yes. Applying and downloading a TCC on iTax is free.
Q2: How long does it take to get approved?
Usually 1–3 working days, but it can be longer during peak filing season.
Q3: What if I forgot to file my NIL returns?
You must file all returns — even NIL — before applying.
Q4: Can I apply for a TCC with tax arrears?
No. You must settle any outstanding obligations first.
💬 Need Help Getting a TCC?
Struggling with iTax or unsure about your tax status? At Ushuru, we help individuals and businesses:
- File all pending returns
- Clear KRA penalties
- Resolve non-compliance issues
- Successfully apply for your TCC