Popular Mpesa Paybill Numbers in Kenya

Mobile money services have revolutionized financial transactions in Kenya, with M-Pesa at the forefront. 

One of the key features of this service is the Mpesa Paybill number, a critical tool for payment collection for businesses and individuals alike. 

In this blog post, we’ll delve into popular mpesa Paybill numbers in Kenya, how they differ from till numbers, and the various aspects of using them.

We will also walk you through how to get a paybill number, make payments, and more. 

But first…

What is a Paybill Number?

A Paybill number is a unique identifier businesses and organizations use to collect customer payments through mobile banking – M-Pesa. It’s a convenient, secure, and efficient way to handle transactions without cash or physical banking.

How to Get a Paybill Number

To obtain a Paybill number in Kenya, the following key steps and requirements must be met:

For Sole Proprietors:

Application Form & Terms and Conditions: Complete and sign the application form and terms and conditions.

1. Tariff Guide: Sign the Tariff Guide.
2. Business Registration or Permit: Provide a copy of the Business Registration or Business Permit.
3. KRA Pin: Individual or company KRA Pin (not mandatory).
4. Identification Documents: Provide copies of identification documents (National ID, Military Service Number, Passport, or Alien Certificate for foreign nationals).
5. Proof of Business Existence: Submit a copy of a utility bill or a photo of the business.
6. Bank Details: Provide a canceled cheque or a letter from the bank confirming bank details.

For Limited Liability Companies:

1. Application Form & Terms and Conditions: Complete and sign the application form and terms and conditions.
2. Tariff Guide: Sign the Tariff Guide.
3. Certificate of Incorporation: Provide a stamped copy of the certificate of incorporation.
4. Board Resolution: Submit an original stamped or company-sealed Board Resolution, signed by at least two directors, stating the authority to open a Paybill account, appointed persons with signatory authority, and bank details.
5. KRA Pin Certificate: For both the company and directors.
6. CR12 or Annual Returns: Provide a copy of CR12 (with a validity period of 30 days) or Annual Returns with a filing receipt.
7. Proof of Business Existence: Submit a copy of a utility bill or a photo of the business.
8. Identification Documents: Provide copies of identification documents for persons opening the account.
9. Bank Details: Provide a canceled cheque or a letter from the bank confirming bank details.

After meeting these requirements, you can complete the relevant form and return it to the Enterprise Unit at Safaricom House on Waiyaki Way.

The processing time for a Paybill application is typically two weeks, and 48 hours for a short-term Paybill application.

How to Make Payment Using a Paybill:

1. Go to the M-Pesa menu on your mobile phone.
2. Select “Lipa na M-Pesa” and then “Paybill.”
3. Enter the business’s Paybill number.
4. Enter the account number you are paying to (it could be your utility account, school fees account, etc.).
5. Enter the amount you wish to pay.
6. Enter your M-Pesa PIN and confirm the transaction.
7. You will receive a confirmation SMS from M-Pesa.

What are the Mpesa Paybill Charges?

M-Pesa Paybill charges vary depending on the amount being transacted. These charges are usually borne by the customer making the payment. You can find more information on the updated charges on Safaricom’s website.

How to Reverse Money Sent to the Wrong Paybill

Mistakenly sending money to the wrong Paybill can be stressful. Still, there are steps to rectify this:

Immediate Action: If you realize the mistake promptly, you can send the word ‘reverse’ as a text message to 456.

Contact Safaricom: If the above step doesn’t work, contact Safaricom customer care immediately. It’s crucial to provide them with all the transaction details. Safaricom will contact the unintended recipient for authorization to reverse the transaction. This process may take some time, depending on the response of the Paybill owner.

Paybill Numbers in Kenya You Should Know

Final Take on Paybills in Kenya

The benefits of having a Paybill number are numerous and significant, especially in today’s digital and mobile-centric world.

As a business, you get to enjoy secure, convenient, and efficient payment collection, facilitating real-time settlements and easy reconciliation.

It is important to note that if you can only make use of the Paybill system once you are a registered legal entity in Kenya. If you’d like to get professional help with registering as a business in Kenya, feel free to send us a quick message and we’ll help you legalize your business.

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