If you’re employed in Kenya, chances are you’ve heard of the P9 form—especially during tax filing season. But what exactly is this document, and why is it important? Whether you’re a new employee or simply trying to make sense of your tax obligations, this blog will help you understand the P9 form and its role in the Kenyan tax system.
What Is a P9 Form?
A P9 form is a tax document issued annually by employers in Kenya to their employees. It provides a summary of your income and tax deductions for the year. Think of it as your tax report card—it outlines how much you earned, the benefits you received, and how much tax was deducted and submitted to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) on your behalf.
This form is crucial when filing your annual income tax return through the KRA’s online portal, iTax.
Why Is the P9 Form Important?
Here’s why every employee should take the P9 form seriously:
-
Mandatory for tax filing: If you're in formal employment, you need a P9 form to file your individual income tax returns correctly.
-
Proof of income: It shows a breakdown of your gross salary, benefits, and allowances.
-
Evidence of tax paid: Confirms that your employer has been deducting and remitting PAYE (Pay As You Earn) taxes to the KRA.
-
Avoid penalties: Filing without a P9 form—or not filing at all—can attract penalties from the KRA.
What Details Are Included in a P9 Form?
Typically, a P9 form includes the following:
-
Employee details – Name, PIN, and employment number
-
Employer details – Company name, PIN, and contact information
-
Gross pay – Total earnings before any deductions
-
Benefits and allowances – Such as housing, bonuses, and travel
-
Taxable income – What remains after allowable deductions
-
Deductions – PAYE, pension contributions, and other statutory deductions (like NHIF and NSSF)
-
Tax charged – The final amount of tax the employer remitted to KRA on your behalf
How Do You Get Your P9 Form?
Your employer is required to generate and provide your P9 form at the end of each financial year—usually by March. It’s often shared via email or your company’s HR portal. If you don’t receive it, ask your HR or payroll department.
What to Do with Your P9 Form
Once you have your P9 form:
-
Log in to the KRA iTax portal at https://itax.kra.go.ke
-
Select “File Return” under the Income Tax section
-
Use the information from your P9 to complete the form
-
Submit before the June 30th deadline to avoid penalties
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Filing returns without a P9 form
-
Using outdated or incorrect P9 data
-
Ignoring benefits or allowances (they’re taxable too)
-
Filing late—penalties apply even if no tax is owed
Final Thoughts
Understanding your P9 form is essential for every employee in Kenya. It not only keeps you compliant with tax laws but also gives you insight into your annual income and deductions. If you ever spot errors on your form, contact your HR or payroll department immediately to correct them before filing.
Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful—with your P9 form in hand and a little knowledge, you’re already ahead.
Need help managing employee tax records or simplifying payroll?
Contact us at sales@faidihr.com or call us on +254 702 339 699 for a modern, automated HR and payroll solution that fits your business.