2 February 2026
How to Get KRA PIN in Kenya 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (Online & Offline)
Need to know how to get KRA PIN in Kenya? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re starting a job, opening a bank account, registering a business, or filing tax returns, getting your KRA PIN is essential—and it’s completely FREE.
This complete guide shows you exactly how to get KRA PIN online in just 5-10 minutes from your phone or computer. No queues, no agents, no complications.
What you’ll learn:
- ✅ How to get KRA PIN online (step-by-step with screenshots)
- ✅ How to get KRA PIN at Huduma Centre (offline method)
- ✅ Required documents checklist
- ✅ How to download KRA PIN certificate
- ✅ How to check if you already have a KRA PIN
- ✅ How to recover lost KRA PIN
- ✅ Common problems and solutions
- ✅ What to do after getting your KRA PIN
Quick Facts:
- Cost: FREE (KSh 0)
- Time: 5-10 minutes online, instant certificate
- Requirements: National ID, phone number, email
- Age: 18+ years (or income-earning minors)
- Where: Online via iTax or at Huduma Centre
What is a KRA PIN? (Simple Explanation)
KRA PIN stands for Kenya Revenue Authority Personal Identification Number.
Think of it as your unique tax identification number in Kenya—like a national ID for tax purposes.
KRA PIN Format:
Example: A001234567B
- Starts with letter (A or P)
- 9 numbers in the middle
- Ends with letter
- Total: 11 characters
Why You Need a KRA PIN:
You MUST have a KRA PIN to:
- ✅ Get employed (all employers require it)
- ✅ File tax returns
- ✅ Open bank account (most banks require it)
- ✅ Register a business
- ✅ Apply for loans
- ✅ Buy land/property
- ✅ Get government tenders
- ✅ Apply for NHIF/NSSF
- ✅ Clear goods at customs
- ✅ Get HELB loan
- ✅ Register M-Pesa business account
Bottom line: You need a KRA PIN for almost everything official in Kenya.
How to Get KRA PIN Online (Fastest Method – 2026)
This is the easiest and fastest way to get KRA PIN in Kenya. Do it from your phone or computer in 5-10 minutes.
Requirements Before You Start:
Documents needed:
- ✅ National ID (front and back photos)
- ✅ Valid email address
- ✅ Active phone number (Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom)
- ✅ Clear ID photo (your face)
Optional (speeds up approval):
- Passport photo (digital)
- Proof of physical address (if you have)
Step-by-Step: How to Get KRA PIN Online via iTax
Step 1: Go to iTax Website
On computer:
- Open browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari)
- Go to: https://itax.kra.go.ke
On phone:
- Open browser
- Type: itax.kra.go.ke
- Or download iTax app from Google Play Store
You’ll see the iTax homepage
Step 2: Click “New PIN Registration”
What to do:
- On the homepage, look for “New PIN Registration” button
- Usually located at the top right or center
- Click it
Alternative route:
- Click “Register” if you see it
- Then select “New KRA PIN Registration”
Step 3: Choose Registration Type
You’ll see options:
A. Individual PIN (For most people)
- Choose this if you’re registering for yourself
- For employees, students, freelancers, self-employed
B. Business PIN
- Choose this if registering a company/business
- Requires business registration certificate
C. Other Types:
- Foreign National
- Non-Resident
- Estate of Deceased Person
For this guide, select: “Individual PIN”
Step 4: Choose “New KRA PIN”
Options you’ll see:
- New KRA PIN ← Select this
- For people who’ve never had a PIN
- Change KRA PIN
- For changing existing PIN (rare)
- Retrieve Lost PIN
- If you forgot your PIN number
Click: “New KRA PIN”
Step 5: Fill in Personal Details
Form fields you’ll complete:
A. Personal Information:
| Field | What to Enter | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Surname | Your last name (as per ID) | Kamau |
| Other Names | First and middle names | John Mwangi |
| Former Name | If you changed name, enter old name | Leave blank if not applicable |
| Date of Birth | DD/MM/YYYY format | 15/03/1995 |
| Gender | Male/Female | Male |
| ID Number | Your national ID number | 12345678 |
| ID Type | National ID (default) | National ID |
| Nationality | Kenyan (default) | Kenyan |
Important:
- ✅ Enter names EXACTLY as they appear on your ID
- ✅ Double-check ID number (no mistakes allowed)
- ✅ Use correct date format (DD/MM/YYYY)
B. Contact Information:
| Field | What to Enter | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Number | Your active phone (07XX or 01XX) | 0712345678 |
| Alternative Number | Another phone (optional) | 0722987654 |
| Email Address | Your email (must be valid) | [email protected] |
| Postal Address | P.O. Box or physical address | P.O. Box 12345-00100 |
| Postal Code | Your area postal code | 00100 |
| Town | Your town/city | Nairobi |
Tips:
- ✅ Use email you check regularly (PIN sent here)
- ✅ Phone must be active (OTP verification)
- ✅ If no P.O. Box, use physical address
C. Physical Address:
| Field | What to Enter |
|---|---|
| County | Select from dropdown (e.g., Nairobi) |
| Sub-County | Select your sub-county (e.g., Westlands) |
| Ward | Optional |
| Building/House No. | Your building name or house number |
| Street/Road | Street name |
| Plot Number | If applicable (optional) |
D. Employment/Business Details:
| Field | What to Enter | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Status | Employed/Self-Employed/Student/Unemployed | Choose your current status |
| Employer Name | If employed, enter employer name | Leave blank if unemployed |
| Employer PIN | Employer’s KRA PIN (if known) | Optional |
| Nature of Business | What you do (if self-employed) | E.g., “Freelance Writing” |
For students/unemployed:
- Select “Student” or “Unemployed”
- Leave employer fields blank
- No problem—you can still get PIN
Step 6: Upload Required Documents
Documents to upload:
A. National ID (Front)
- Take clear photo of ID front
- Must show photo, name, ID number
- File size: Max 2MB
- Format: JPG, PNG, PDF
B. National ID (Back)
- Photo of ID back side
- Must be clear and readable
C. Passport Photo (Optional but recommended)
- Recent passport-size photo
- Clear face, neutral background
- Format: JPG, PNG
D. ID Photo
- Photo of yourself holding your ID
- Your face and ID must both be visible
- Recent photo (not old)
How to upload:
- Click “Choose File” or “Browse”
- Select photo from your phone/computer
- Click “Upload”
- Wait for green checkmark (✓)
- Repeat for each document
Photo Tips:
- ✅ Good lighting (not too dark)
- ✅ Clear and sharp (not blurry)
- ✅ Entire ID visible (no parts cut off)
- ✅ File under 2MB (compress if needed)
Step 7: Verify Your Phone Number (OTP)
After filling the form:
A. Click “Request OTP”
- System sends code to your phone
- Check SMS inbox
B. Enter OTP Code
- You’ll receive 6-digit code via SMS
- Example: “Your iTax OTP is 123456”
- Enter code in the OTP field
- Click “Verify”
C. OTP Expires in 5 Minutes
- If expired, click “Resend OTP”
- New code will be sent
Not receiving OTP?
- Check phone has network
- Wait 2-3 minutes
- Try “Resend OTP”
- Use alternative number if available
Step 8: Review and Submit
Before submitting:
Checklist:
- [ ] All names match your ID exactly
- [ ] ID number is correct (8 digits)
- [ ] Phone number is active
- [ ] Email is correct (check spelling)
- [ ] All documents uploaded successfully
- [ ] OTP verified
If everything is correct:
- Click “Review Application”
- Check all details one more time
- Click “Submit”
You’ll see confirmation message: “Your application has been submitted successfully. You will receive your KRA PIN via email and SMS.”
Step 9: Receive Your KRA PIN
Timeline:
- Instant to 24 hours (usually within minutes)
- Most people get PIN in 5-30 minutes
How you’ll receive it:
A. Via SMS
- Message: “Your KRA PIN is A123456789B”
- Save this SMS!
B. Via Email
- Email subject: “KRA PIN Registration”
- Contains your PIN number
- Certificate attached (PDF)
C. On iTax Portal
- Log in to iTax
- PIN will show in your profile
Step 10: Download KRA PIN Certificate
Your KRA PIN Certificate is the official proof.
How to download:
Method 1: From Email
- Open email from KRA
- Download attached PDF
- Save to phone/computer
- Print if needed
Method 2: From iTax Portal
- Go to itax.kra.go.ke
- Click “Download KRA PIN Certificate”
- Enter your ID number
- Enter your PIN (the one you received)
- Enter captcha
- Click “Download”
- Save PDF
What the certificate shows:
- Your full names
- ID number
- KRA PIN number
- Date of registration
- KRA stamp/seal
Keep multiple copies:
- Digital copy on phone
- Digital copy on email
- Printed hard copy
- Backup on Google Drive/Cloud
How to Get KRA PIN at Huduma Centre (Offline Method)
If you prefer in-person or can’t do it online, visit Huduma Centre.
Requirements:
Documents to bring:
- ✅ Original National ID
- ✅ ID photocopy (front and back)
- ✅ Passport photo (1 copy)
- ✅ Email address (written down)
- ✅ Phone number
Step-by-Step Process:
Step 1: Find Nearest Huduma Centre
- Search “Huduma Centre near me”
- Or go to hudumakenya.go.ke
- Check opening hours: Usually 8 AM – 5 PM (weekdays)
Step 2: Queue for KRA Services
- Enter Huduma Centre
- Tell security: “KRA PIN registration”
- Get queue number
- Wait for your turn
Step 3: Meet KRA Officer
- When called, go to KRA desk
- Say: “I want to register for KRA PIN”
- Officer will give you form
Step 4: Fill Application Form
- KRA officer may help you fill
- Provide all personal details
- Sign the form
Step 5: Submit Documents
- Give officer:
- Original ID (they’ll scan)
- ID photocopy
- Passport photo
- Signed form
Step 6: Officer Processes
- Takes 5-10 minutes
- Officer enters your details
- Takes your photo
- Prints certificate
Step 7: Collect KRA PIN Certificate
- Officer prints certificate
- You sign to acknowledge receipt
- Take certificate home
Advantages of Huduma Centre:
- ✅ Get certificate immediately (printed on spot)
- ✅ Officer helps if you have questions
- ✅ No internet required
Disadvantages:
- ❌ Must travel to Huduma Centre
- ❌ Queues can be long (1-3 hours wait)
- ❌ Only weekdays
- ❌ Costs transport money
Cost:
- Service is FREE (KSh 0)
- No “processing fee” (if asked, it’s a scam)
How to Check If You Already Have a KRA PIN
Not sure if you’ve registered before? Here’s how to check:
Method 1: Check via iTax Portal
Step 1: Go to itax.kra.go.ke
Step 2: Click “Verify PIN Status” or “Check PIN”
Step 3: Enter your ID number
Step 4: Enter captcha
Step 5: Click “Search”
Results:
- If PIN exists: Your PIN will display
- If no PIN: “No record found”
Method 2: SMS Check (USSD Code)
Dial: *662#
Follow prompts:
- Select “KRA Services”
- Select “Check my PIN”
- Enter ID number
- Your PIN will display (if registered)
Note: This service may not be available on all networks.
Method 3: Call KRA
Phone: 0711 099 999 or 0711 088 999
Say: “I want to check if I have a KRA PIN”
Provide:
- Full names
- ID number
- Date of birth
They’ll tell you:
- If you have PIN
- What your PIN is
Method 4: Visit Huduma Centre
- Go to any Huduma Centre
- Queue for KRA desk
- Ask officer to check
- Provide ID
How to Recover Lost KRA PIN
Forgot or lost your KRA PIN? Easy to recover:
Method 1: Online via iTax
Step 1: Go to itax.kra.go.ke
Step 2: Click “Forgot PIN” or “Retrieve PIN”
Step 3: Fill recovery form:
- ID number
- Full names (as per ID)
- Email address
- Phone number
Step 4: Submit
Step 5: Check email
- PIN will be sent to your registered email
- If email changed, may need to visit KRA office
Method 2: SMS
Send SMS to: 0722 209 929 or 0734 600 000
Format: PIN [Your ID Number]
Example: PIN 12345678
Reply: Your KRA PIN will be sent back via SMS
Method 3: Call KRA Helpline
Phone: 0711 099 999
Say: “I’ve lost my KRA PIN”
Verify identity:
- Full names
- ID number
- Date of birth
- Registered phone/email
They’ll send PIN via SMS or email
Method 4: Visit KRA Office
If online methods fail:
- Visit nearest KRA office (Times Tower, Nairobi or regional offices)
- Carry original ID
- Fill PIN retrieval form
- They’ll print new certificate
KRA Offices (Major):
- Nairobi: Times Tower, Haile Selassie Avenue
- Mombasa: Treasury Square Building
- Kisumu: Reinsurance Plaza
- Nakuru: Tamoh House
- Eldoret: NSSF Building
How to Download KRA PIN Certificate (If You Lost It)
Already have PIN but lost certificate? Download anytime:
Online Method (Fastest):
Step 1: Go to itax.kra.go.ke
Step 2: Click “Download KRA PIN Certificate”
Step 3: Enter details:
- ID number
- KRA PIN
- Captcha code
Step 4: Click “Download”
Step 5: Save PDF to phone/computer
Step 6: Print if needed
Via Huduma Centre:
- Visit Huduma Centre
- Request “KRA PIN certificate reprint”
- Provide ID
- They’ll print certificate
- FREE service
Common Problems When Getting KRA PIN (Solutions)
Problem 1: “ID Number Already Registered”
Meaning: You already have a KRA PIN
Solution:
- Retrieve your PIN (methods above)
- Download certificate
- No need to register again
Problem 2: OTP Not Received
Causes:
- Poor network
- Wrong phone number
- Number not registered to your ID
Solutions: ✅ Check phone has network/airtime ✅ Wait 5 minutes and resend ✅ Use alternative number ✅ Try different network (borrow phone) ✅ Do offline registration at Huduma Centre
Problem 3: “Invalid ID Number”
Causes:
- Typo in ID number
- ID number doesn’t match KRA database
Solutions: ✅ Double-check ID number (8 digits exactly) ✅ Try without leading zeros ✅ Try with leading zeros ✅ If persists, visit Huduma Centre
Problem 4: Upload Failed
Causes:
- File too large (over 2MB)
- Wrong file format
- Poor internet connection
Solutions: ✅ Compress photo (use apps like Photo Compress) ✅ Convert to JPG if in different format ✅ Use WiFi instead of mobile data ✅ Try different browser
Problem 5: Names Don’t Match ID
Issue: Form rejects names
Solution: ✅ Enter names EXACTLY as on ID ✅ Include middle name if on ID ✅ Don’t use nicknames ✅ Check spelling carefully ✅ Match capitalization
Problem 6: Application Pending for Days
Normal: Most approved within 24 hours
If over 48 hours: ✅ Call KRA: 0711 099 999 ✅ Provide reference number ✅ They’ll check status ✅ May need to reapply
Problem 7: Certificate Not Downloading
Solutions: ✅ Clear browser cache ✅ Try different browser (Chrome, Firefox) ✅ Download on computer instead of phone ✅ Disable pop-up blocker ✅ Try incognito/private mode ✅ Call KRA for help
What to Do After Getting Your KRA PIN
1. Save Your PIN Number
Write it down:
- In notebook
- On phone notes app
- Email to yourself
Format: A123456789B
Keep certificate:
- Digital copy (phone + email)
- Printed copy (safe place)
2. Activate iTax Account
Why: To file returns, check tax status
How:
Step 1: Go to itax.kra.go.ke
Step 2: Click “New Account” or “Register”
Step 3: Enter:
- KRA PIN
- ID number
- Create password
Step 4: Verify email
Step 5: Log in
Now you can:
- File tax returns online
- Check tax obligations
- Download certificates
- Apply for tax compliance certificate
3. Update Your Employer
If employed:
- Give HR/Accounts your KRA PIN
- They need it for PAYE (Pay As You Earn tax)
- Provide certificate copy
4. Update Your Bank
If opening account or have existing:
- Provide KRA PIN to bank
- They’ll update your records
- Required for compliance
5. File Your First Tax Return (If Applicable)
Who must file:
- Employed people
- Business owners
- Freelancers
- Rental income earners
When: Before June 30 (for previous year)
How:
- Log in to iTax
- Click “File Returns”
- Select appropriate return type
- Fill and submit
Even if no income: File nil returns
6. Keep Certificate Safe
You’ll need it for:
- Job applications
- Loan applications
- Business registration
- Property purchase
- Government tenders
- Bank services
Keep:
- Physical copy in safe place
- Digital backup (Google Drive, email)
- Photo on phone
KRA PIN for Different Groups
For Students (18+ years)
Can students get KRA PIN? Yes! Anyone 18+ can get PIN.
When students need PIN:
- HELB loan application
- Opening bank account
- Part-time jobs
- Freelancing
- Business registration
Process: Same as above
For Unemployed People
Can unemployed people get KRA PIN? Yes! Employment not required.
How:
- Follow same process
- Select “Unemployed” as employment status
- Leave employer details blank
Why get PIN if unemployed:
- Ready when you get job
- Can freelance/start business
- Required for many services
For Minors (Under 18)
Can minors get KRA PIN? Yes, if earning income or have tax obligations.
Examples:
- Child actors
- Young entrepreneurs
- Inheritance/trust fund beneficiaries
Process:
- Parent/guardian applies on their behalf
- Visit KRA office with:
- Child’s birth certificate
- Guardian’s ID
- Proof of income (if applicable)
For Foreigners in Kenya
Can non-Kenyans get KRA PIN? Yes!
Requirements:
- Valid passport
- Work permit/residence permit
- Proof of address in Kenya
Process:
- Online: Select “Foreign National”
- Or visit KRA office
PIN format: Starts with “P” (e.g., P123456789C)
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Get KRA PIN
Is getting a KRA PIN free?
Yes! Getting a KRA PIN is 100% FREE. No registration fee, no processing fee, no certificate fee.
If anyone asks for money, it’s a scam.
How long does it take to get KRA PIN?
Online: 5 minutes to 24 hours (usually within 30 minutes) Huduma Centre: Instant (certificate printed on the spot)
Can I get KRA PIN without email?
Online: No, email is required (verification) Huduma Centre: Yes, you can get PIN without email
Solution if no email:
- Create free Gmail account (gmail.com)
- Takes 2 minutes
- Then apply for PIN
Can I have two KRA PINs?
No. Each person can only have ONE KRA PIN (linked to ID number).
If you try to register again: System will say “ID already registered”
What if my name changed (marriage, deed poll)?
If name on ID changed:
- Use NEW name (current ID name) when applying
- Optional: Provide proof of name change
If ID not yet updated:
- Update ID first at Huduma Centre
- Then apply for KRA PIN with new ID
Can I change my KRA PIN number?
No. KRA PIN is permanent. Once issued, it cannot be changed.
You can update:
- Contact details (phone, email, address)
- But NOT the PIN number itself
Do I need to renew KRA PIN?
No. KRA PIN is lifetime. Once you get it, it’s permanent.
No renewal fee, no expiry date.
What if I made a mistake in my application?
Before submission:
- Go back and correct
- Review carefully before submitting
After submission:
- Contact KRA: 0711 099 999
- Explain the error
- May need to visit KRA office to correct
Can someone else apply for my KRA PIN?
Online: Technically yes, but NOT recommended (security risk)
Huduma Centre: Yes, with authorization letter + ID copies
Best: Do it yourself (easy and secure)
Checklist: Getting Your KRA PIN Today
Before You Start:
- [ ] National ID (check expiry date)
- [ ] Photo of ID front (clear, under 2MB)
- [ ] Photo of ID back (clear, under 2MB)
- [ ] Passport photo (optional)
- [ ] Active phone number
- [ ] Working email address
- [ ] Internet connection (if applying online)
During Application:
- [ ] Names match ID exactly
- [ ] ID number correct (8 digits)
- [ ] Phone number active
- [ ] Email spelled correctly
- [ ] All documents uploaded
- [ ] OTP verified
- [ ] Reviewed before submitting
After Submission:
- [ ] Check SMS for PIN
- [ ] Check email for certificate
- [ ] Download certificate PDF
- [ ] Save digital copy (Google Drive, email)
- [ ] Print certificate
- [ ] Save PIN number in safe place
- [ ] Activate iTax account
- [ ] Update employer/bank (if applicable)
Quick Summary: How to Get KRA PIN in 5 Steps
1. Go to itax.kra.go.ke
- Click “New PIN Registration”
- Select “Individual PIN”
2. Fill personal details
- Names (as per ID)
- ID number
- Phone and email
3. Upload documents
- ID front
- ID back
- Passport photo
4. Verify phone (OTP)
- Enter code from SMS
5. Submit and receive PIN
- Check email and SMS
- Download certificate
Time: 5-10 minutes Cost: FREE
Related Guides
- How to Register a Business in Kenya (Requires KRA PIN)
- Complete Guide to Freelancing from Kenya (Need KRA PIN for taxes)
- How to Get Business Funding in Kenya
- How to File KRA Returns Online (iTax Guide)
Last Updated: January 30, 2026
Important Contacts:
- KRA Hotline: 0711 099 999 / 0711 088 999
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: itax.kra.go.ke
- Huduma Centre: 020 2222 111 / 0800 221 900
Disclaimer: This is an educational guide. KRA processes may change. Always verify on official KRA website (kra.go.ke) or call KRA helpline for the most current information.
Ready to get your KRA PIN? Follow the steps above and you’ll have it in 10 minutes! 🇰🇪📄✅
Questions about getting KRA PIN? Drop them in the comments below! 👇