The National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) plays a pivotal role in ensuring Kenyans have access to affordable healthcare.

However, timely payment of NHIF penalties is crucial. Late payments attract penalties, which can be conveniently paid via MPESA.

If you’ve accumulated missed payments, this guide walks you through how to pay NHIF penalty via Mpesa in seven simple steps.

Understanding NHIF Penalties

NHIF imposes penalties on late payments to encourage timely contributions, ensuring the fund has sufficient resources to cover healthcare services.

These penalties are crucial for maintaining the integrity and sustainability of the NHIF system. 

Penalty Charges for Late Payments

Penalties for late NHIF payments vary between individuals in the formal and informal sectors. For formal sector workers, the penalty equals their regular contribution, effectively doubling the amount due.

Self-employed individuals incur a 50% penalty charge on their contributions. For instance, if the monthly contribution is Ksh. 500, the late payment would amount to Ksh. 750.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Pay NHIF Penalty via MPESA

Paying NHIF penalties via MPESA is straightforward. Follow these steps:

• Access M-Pesa Menu: Go to your M-Pesa menu on your mobile phone.
• Select Lipa na M-Pesa: Choose the ‘Lipa na M-Pesa’ option.
• Choose Pay Bill: Select the ‘Pay Bill’ option.
• Enter Business Number: Input 200222, the NHIF Pay Bill number.
• Enter Account Number: Provide your National ID number followed by the letter ‘Y’  (e.g., 12345678Y). This indicates a penalty payment.
• Input Amount: Enter the penalty amount, which includes the 50% charge for self-employed individuals or the full amount for formal sector members.
• Enter M-Pesa PIN: Confirm the transaction with your M-Pesa PIN.
• Receive Confirmation: Safaricom will send a confirmation message, serving as proof of your penalty payment.

Checking NHIF Arrears

To check for any outstanding NHIF arrears, members can use SMS or email services provided by NHIF. This helps in keeping track of any dues and avoiding the accumulation of penalties.

Reactivating NHIF After Defaulting

If you default on NHIF payments, reactivating your coverage involves paying at least Ksh. 1,500 and waiting for 60 days. This process is essential to regain access to NHIF healthcare benefits.

Final Take on How to Pay NHIF Penalties

Paying NHIF penalties on time is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted healthcare coverage.

The convenience of MPESA has made this process easier, ensuring members can quickly address any late payments.

Regularly checking and clearing NHIF arrears is key to enjoying the full benefits of the NHIF scheme.

If you would like to get assistance with registering for NHIF online or ask questions on your NHIF account status, feel free to send us a message and we’ll be more than happy to help.

FAQs on How to Pay NHIF Penalties