Learn About eTIMS
eTIMS Fuel Station System
Overview
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) continues to champion the modernization of tax administration by rolling out the eTIMS Fuel Station System, a tailored extension of the existing eTIMS solutions.
The petroleum sector, known for its complex and high-volume operations, was significantly impacted by the electronic invoicing requirement that mandates a compliant e-invoice for every sale. Traditional ETRs often posed operational challenges, resulting in non-compliance and inefficiencies in fuel dispensing environments.
The eTIMS Fuel Station System was introduced to address these gaps. Implementation began in June 2024 and follows a 12-month phased rollout, including a voluntary pilot and extensive stakeholder engagements ahead of the mandatory compliance deadline.
1. Objectives of the eTIMS Fuel Station System
This system enables fuel stations to meet real-time electronic invoicing requirements while ensuring compliance, accuracy, and operational efficiency in a fast-paced retail environment. It also aims to reduce manual errors and simplify tax filing through system automation.
2. Key Benefits for Fuel Stations
- Automation enhances efficiency and eliminates manual processes.
- Faster service delivery improves customer experience at the forecourt.
- Supports PIN capture, mobile payments, and loyalty programs for seamless integration.
- Improves invoice accuracy and simplifies reconciliation.
- Feeds directly into simplified VAT returns for easier compliance.
- Enables real-time validation for quicker supplier payments and VAT refunds.
3. How the System Works
eTIMS integrates with the fuel station’s automation setup—forecourt controller, sales system, POS, printer, or fuel management system—to ensure that all transactions are recorded and transmitted to KRA in real time. The system supports offline invoicing, VAT auto-fill, mobile money, and loyalty programs, enhancing both compliance and customer convenience.
4. Is the System Mandatory?
Yes. All fuel stations must integrate with eTIMS by 30th June 2025. Failure to comply may result in penalties or enforcement actions. Support is available to assist stations in a seamless migration.
5. Integration Options
- Self-Integration: For stations with internal IT capacity.
- Third-Party Integration: For those requiring external certified integrators.
6. Cost of Integration
Costs vary depending on system complexity, level of automation, and integration method. Certified integrators can provide tailored estimates.
7. How to Get a Certified Integrator
Visit the KRA website’s publications section for the latest list of approved third-party eTIMS integrators.
8. Where to Get Support
KRA offers training, technical support, and advisory through the integration journey.
- Phone: +254 711 099 999
- Email: timsupport@kra.go.ke
- Offices: eTIMS Ops, 7th–8th Floor, JKUAT Towers Nairobi, or any KRA office nationwide.