More detail
The confusion is natural because the names sound similar and they serve the same purpose: record sales and issue a compliant receipt. The big difference is the technology. ETR was a device; eTIMS is software that runs on the devices you already own.
From a compliance perspective, eTIMS is the current requirement. If someone in Kenya asks whether you have an ETR, what they usually mean is "do you issue compliant electronic tax receipts?" The answer can be yes via eTIMS, even if you never owned the old machine.
Related questions
Which one do I need to use?
eTIMS is the current requirement. You can issue compliant receipts through eTIMS software on a phone, POS app, or the web portal.
Can I use both ETR and eTIMS?
If you own an old ETR machine it will not be compliant. Use eTIMS or a TIMS-compliant device, not the old machine.
When did Kenya switch from ETR to eTIMS?
The transition has been gradual. eTIMS became the standard around 2024, though some VAT businesses still run TIMS devices.
Veira gives Kenyan shops one calm app for selling, M-Pesa, KRA eTIMS and stock, with a free terminal. Book a demo and see it set up for your trade.