VAT Calculator Kenya 2026
Calculate Value Added Tax at Kenya's standard rate of 16%. Add VAT to a price or extract VAT from an inclusive amount.
VAT in Kenya — What You Need to Know
Kenya's standard VAT rate is 16%, applied to most goods and services. Some items are zero-rated (exports, certain foodstuffs) or exempt (financial services, education, healthcare).
Who must register for VAT? Any business with annual taxable turnover exceeding KES 5,000,000 must register for VAT with KRA. Voluntary registration is available for businesses below this threshold.
VAT and eTIMS: All VAT-registered businesses must issue electronic tax invoices through KRA's eTIMS system. Every invoice must include the VAT amount, your KRA PIN, and a valid eTIMS control unit number.
Filing and payment: VAT returns are filed monthly via KRA iTax by the 20th of the following month. Late filing attracts a penalty of KES 10,000 or 5% of the VAT due (whichever is higher), plus 2% monthly interest on unpaid tax.
VAT Rates in Kenya
| Category | Rate | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Rate | 16% | Most goods & services |
| Zero-Rated | 0% | Exports, certain foodstuffs, petroleum |
| Exempt | — | Financial services, education, healthcare, rent |
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This VAT calculator provides estimates based on current KRA tax rates and publicly available data. It is not a substitute for professional tax or financial advice. HelaBora is an educational platform — we are not licensed tax agents, financial advisors, or financial institutions. Always consult a qualified professional for specific tax matters or financial decisions.