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| Teachers Service Commission Acting CEO Eveleen Mitei gives a speech during a stakeholder engagement at the Kenya Institute of Special Education, June 9, 2026./Photo/TSC |
TSC Explains Increased PAYE Deductions in June Teachers’ Payslips
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has moved to clarify concerns raised by teachers across the country regarding increased Pay As You Earn (PAYE) deductions reflected in their June 2026 payslips.
The issue attracted widespread attention after many teachers noticed a reduction in their net salaries despite no changes in their basic pay.
According to the Commission, the increase in PAYE deductions was not caused by the introduction of a new tax or any fresh government policy.
Instead, TSC attributed the changes to the correction of a payroll anomaly that had affected tax computations in previous months.
The Commission explained that the error emerged during adjustments made to the government payroll system following recent tax and statutory contribution reforms.
The payroll system had reportedly been configured to accommodate deductions and reliefs associated with various statutory contributions.
However, during the implementation process, a technical error resulted in the duplication of a tax relief linked to employee contributions. This mistake led to lower PAYE deductions than what was legally required under existing tax regulations.
After identifying the anomaly, TSC undertook corrective measures to ensure compliance with tax laws and payroll guidelines.
The correction was subsequently reflected in the June salary processing cycle, leading to slightly higher PAYE deductions for many teachers. As a result, affected employees received lower take-home pay compared to previous months.
The deductions sparked concern among teachers, many of whom sought clarification from their employers and professional associations.
Some educators expressed frustration over the lack of prior communication regarding the adjustments, arguing that any changes affecting salaries should be communicated in advance to allow employees to plan their finances accordingly.
Education stakeholders have also emphasized the importance of transparency in payroll management, noting that salary-related matters are highly sensitive.
They argue that clear and timely communication can help prevent confusion and reduce anxiety among employees whenever payroll adjustments are implemented.
The development comes at a time when many teachers are already grappling with the rising cost of living and increasing household expenses.
Any reduction in net salary, even if minor, is likely to attract attention from employees who depend on their monthly earnings to meet financial obligations.
Despite the concerns, TSC has maintained that the deductions reflected in the June payslips are accurate and in line with existing tax regulations.
The Commission has assured teachers that the payroll system has been corrected and that future salary processing will continue to comply with the law.
The clarification is expected to ease uncertainty among teachers while highlighting the need for improved payroll oversight and better communication whenever changes affecting employee earnings occur.
TSC Explains Increased PAYE Deductions in June Teachers’ Payslips