Mpesa Till numbers and Paybill numbers are Safaricom services used daily by millions to send and receive payments.
If you’ve ever bought groceries, paid school fees, or settled an electricity bill in Kenya, chances are you’ve tapped into M-PESA’s magic—Till Numbers and Paybill Numbers. These codes are everywhere, fueling our daily transactions. But what if you’re the one running a business, a school, or even fundraising for a cause? How do you get your own?
This guide breaks down the processes of applying for an Mpesa Till Number and Mpesa Paybill Number without the jargon. Think of it as your roadmap to joining Kenya’s cashless economy.
Table of Contents
First, What’s the Difference between Mpesa Till and Mpesa Paybill?
Difference Between Till and Paybill
Perfect for retail shops, restaurants, boutiques, or online hustles. Customers pay directly into your M-PESA without typing extra account numbers. Money goes straight to your till, and you can either withdraw it to the bank or use it to pay suppliers directly.
Designed for organizations, schools, hospitals, utilities, or SACCOs. Customers enter your Paybill plus an account/reference number (e.g., “Student Name,” “Policy Number”). Great for structured payments where tracking who-paid-what matters.
What You Need Before Applying
Safaricom doesn’t just hand these out like sweets—you need paperwork. Here’s your checklist:
📄 Application Requirements
📝
Filled application form (from Safaricom’s portal)
🆔
Valid ID (National ID/Passport)
✍️
Signed M-PESA terms and conditions
🏦
Bank account details (letter from bank or cancelled cheque)
📱
Safaricom line in your name (to manage and receive notifications)
📁
Business documents (registration certificate, KRA PIN, or permit depending on the type of Paybill)
Application Guide for Paybill and Till Number
M-PESA Business Numbers Guide
Head to the M-PESA for Business portal.
Click Apply Now under “M-PESA Business Till.”
Choose:
Individual Till → funds settle in your personal M-PESA
Business Till → funds settle in your business account
Fill in your details and upload your ID.
Submit. You’ll get a confirmation message once it’s in motion.
🔑 Pro Tip: If you’re just starting small (online shop or kibanda), the Individual Till works fine. You can upgrade later.
Visit M-PESA for Business portal.
Click Apply Now and select Paybill.
Fill in the online application form.
Upload supporting documents:
ID + KRA PIN
Business Registration Certificate/Permit
Bank confirmation letter/cancelled cheque
Utility bill or business photo to prove existence
Submit and wait. Processing usually takes 24 hours if everything checks out.
The 3 Flavors of Paybill:
Short-Term Paybill → temporary use (fundraisers: medical bills, weddings, funerals).
Bulk Payment (B2C) → sending money to many people at once (salaries, dividends, SACCO payouts).
Standard Paybill → classic option for schools, hospitals, utilities, etc.
Final Word
In Kenya’s fast-moving digital economy, having a Till or Paybill isn’t just convenient—it’s essential. It tells your customers you’re legit, keeps your money safer, and gives you a clear record of transactions.
So, whether you’re selling mitumba on Instagram, running a SACCO, or raising funds for a community cause, getting your own M-PESA Till or Paybill is a game-changer.
A KRA PIN, or Kenya Revenue Authority Personal Identification Number, is a unique identifier issued by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to individuals and businesses in Kenya. It’s crucial for various transactions, including:
Registration of titles and stamping of instruments
Approval of development plans and payment of utility deposits
Registration of motor vehicles and licensing
Business registration and trade licensing
Importation of goods and customs clearance
Opening bank accounts
Membership registration with professional bodies
Having a KRA PIN is essential for anyone who expects to earn income in Kenya, whether as a resident or non-resident, or who intends to conduct business with government agencies or service providers.
This guide will help you navigate the process of obtaining a KRA PIN even if you currently have no tax obligations, providing you with the flexibility to engage in administrative or business activities without the immediate concern of taxation.
The Short Version: To register a KRA Pin without any obligations, just select “Yes” when prompted about registering a PIN with no obligations on the e-registration page.
For Non-Taxable Activities: Some individuals or entities might not immediately have taxable activities but require a PIN for administrative purposes like opening a bank account or registering a business.
Future Compliance: Even if you’re not currently liable for taxes, having a PIN in place prepares you for any future tax obligations without the rush of last-minute registration.
Legal Transactions: Certain legal transactions, like buying or selling property, require a KRA PIN, regardless of tax obligations.
Steps to Register for a KRA PIN with No Obligation
Here’s how you can apply for a KRA PIN without immediate tax obligations:
Visit the iTax Portal:
Go to the KRA iTax portal at itax.kra.go.ke.
Click on “New PIN Registration”
Select Registration Type:
Choose “Individual” if you’re registering personally, or “Non-Individual” for businesses or entities.
Select the “Online Form” as your mode of registration.
Then click on Yes on the question as to whether you want to register a PIN without an obligation.
Fill in Your Details:
Provide your personal information like name, ID number, or passport number if you’re a non-resident.
For a business, include company details like name, registration number, and directors’ PINs.
Tax Obligation Selection:
When selecting tax obligations, for “no obligation” you would typically leave the relevant boxes unchecked or choose options that do not imply immediate tax liability. This step is crucial as it defines your tax status with KRA.
Source of Income:
If you have no current income, you can leave this blank or indicate “None” or “Not Applicable”.
Submit the Application:
After filling out the form, solve the arithmetic sum for verification and submit your application.
Acknowledgment Receipt:
An acknowledgment receipt will be sent to your email. This includes a reference number for tracking your application.
PIN Issuance:
Upon verification, especially if no immediate tax obligation is declared, your PIN will be issued. You’ll receive an email with your PIN, password, and security stamp.
How a KRA PIN Helps
Simplifies Business Transactions: Many business activities in Kenya require a KRA PIN, making transactions smoother and legally compliant.
Tax Compliance: Even with no initial obligation, having a PIN makes future tax compliance easier if your circumstances change.
Identity Verification: Acts as an identity verification tool in numerous official transactions, enhancing security and reducing fraud.
Access to Services: Facilitates access to government services, from land registration to vehicle licensing.
Post-Registration Considerations
Updating Your Information: Keep your PIN details updated if there’s any change in your status or contact information.
PIN Cancellation: If you decide you no longer need the PIN (for instance, if you leave the country or close your business), you can apply for cancellation through the same iTax portal.
In conclusion, while a KRA PIN is often associated with tax obligations, it’s also a key component for anyone looking to engage in various economic activities in Kenya. Registering with no obligation ensures you’re prepared for any future financial engagements without the immediate burden of tax duties. Remember, the information provided here is based on web resources and the operational procedures of KRA might evolve, so always refer to the latest guidelines on the KRA website or contact their support for the most current information.
This post we will explore CR12 and outline a process to conduct a company search and obtain a CR12 certificate.
Table of Contents
What is a Company CR12, and Why is it Important?
It is a document in the Kenyan business landscape. Essentially, it is a company search document that provides official confirmation of the directors and shareholders of a company. It is automatically generated through the BRS portal. A Company CR12 is a convenient and reliable tool for verifying company ownership and structure. It is frequently required in situations like tender applications, business loan applications, or compliance checks.
Many business owners and stakeholders mistakenly think of the document as a business license. However, it is not. It is a detailed snapshot of a company’s legal composition, ensuring transparency and credibility in corporate transactions.
The 5 Step Process to Obtain a Company CR12 Certificate
Getting a company CR12 via the Business Registration Service portal is a simple process when you adhere to these five essential steps:
BRS Portal CR12 Document Guide
Visit eCitizen.go.ke and log in using your eCitizen account credentials. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to register first using your ID number, email, and phone number.
After logging into eCitizen, navigate to the authorized BRS platform by visiting brs.ecitizen.go.ke. This portal allows you to access various business registration services.
In the BRS portal, go to the “Company Search” section in the main menu. Enter either the company’s name or registration number into the search field to begin.
Once the company is selected, make the payment using any available method, such as mobile money, bank transfer, or debit card. This will finalize your search request.
Confirm all details and submit your search request. The system will process your application and generate the CR12 document.
When the CR12 document is ready, download it immediately from the BRS portal for your records and future reference.
Benefits of a Company CR12
Verification of Ownership: The document confirms the legal owners and directors of a company, fostering transparency in business dealings.
Mandatory for Tenders: Many tenders require a company search to verify that the bidding company meets ownership requirements.
Simplifies Business Transactions: Banks and other financial institutions often require the document when opening corporate accounts or granting loans.
Legal Compliance: The certificate ensures that companies are aligned with Kenyan business laws, reducing the risk of legal disputes.
Sample of a CR12 Certificate
Common Scenarios for The Use of The Document
Tender applications
Business bank account setup
Corporate loan applications
Due diligence in mergers and acquisitions
Why Choose Mwash Cyber to Help You Obtain a CR12 File?
While the process seems straightforward, navigating the BRS portal can sometimes be challenging due to unfamiliarity with the system. That’s where Mwash Cyber comes in.
At Mwash Cyber, we specialize in providing seamless assistance for obtaining Various documents. Whether you’re short on time or need professional guidance, our team ensures a hassle-free process.
Contact Mwash Cyber today via WhatsApp at 0707637143, and let us take the stress out of your document applications. Our expertise guarantees timely and accurate results, so you can focus on growing your business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long does it take to get a company search?
A: The process is completed instantly, depending on system responsiveness and payment clearance.
Q: Can I apply for a company search if I’m not the company director?
A: Yes, anyone can apply for a company search and get the document, provided they above process.
Q: Is there a cost for obtaining the document?
A: Yes, the BRS portal charges a fee of KES 650 for company searches. Additional service charges may apply if you use a service like Mwash Cyber.
Conclusion
The certificate is an indispensable tool for businesses in Kenya, ensuring transparency and legal compliance. By understanding its purpose, benefits, and application process, business owners can stay ahead in their corporate dealings. For a smooth, efficient, and professional experience, trust Mwash Cyber to handle your application today.
Mpesa, the premier mobile money service in Kenya, consistently evolves to meet its users’ changing needs.
In 2025, Safaricom introduced revised charges for sending and withdrawing money, implementing standardized rates across networks and tackling crucial issues like fraud and financial transparency.
This article offers a comprehensive guide to the newest charges, limits, and service updates, helping you make informed decisions while utilizing Mpesa for both personal and business transactions.
Table of Contents
What’s New in Mpesa Charges 2025?
Safaricom has harmonized the cost of sending money to Airtel Money and Telkom T-Kash, making it equal to sending within the Safaricom network. This move eliminates discrepancies in transfer costs, promoting seamless interoperability between mobile money services.
Transfers to unregistered users have been removed from Mpesa services. This decision was influenced by increasing cases of fraud and money laundering. While this might limit flexibility, it enhances security by ensuring all transactions are traceable and tied to registered accounts.
The daily transaction limit has been raised to KES 500,000, while the maximum amount per single transaction is capped at KES 250,000. These increased limits accommodate larger transactions for businesses and individuals, reflecting Mpesa’s growing role in the financial ecosystem.
Sending fees have been adjusted to provide better affordability for smaller transactions. For instance, transactions below KES 100 remain free, while sending KES 1,000 incurs a flat fee of KES 13. This makes Mpesa more cost-effective for everyday transactions.
Withdrawal charges have also been revised, with fees starting at KES 11 for amounts between KES 50 and KES 100, and capping at KES 309 for amounts up to KES 250,000. Withdrawals below KES 50 are no longer allowed, aligning with Safaricom’s goal of optimizing operational efficiency.
The updated Mpesa charges and enhanced services come in response to growing competition from Airtel Money and Telkom T-Kash. These changes aim to solidify Mpesa’s position as the dominant player in Kenya’s mobile money market while offering users greater value.
These updates demonstrate Safaricom’s dedication to remaining competitive, enhancing user security, and streamlining access to mobile money services.
New Mpesa Send Money Charges
Safaricom has overhauled its Mpesa sending fees for 2025, implementing a uniform rate for all networks. Now, sending money to Airtel Money or Telkom’s T-Kash costs the same as transferring within Safaricom. Furthermore, transfers to unregistered users have been halted to enhance security and prevent fraud and money laundering.
For example, transferring KES 500 incurs a fee of KES 7, regardless of the recipient’s network. Here is a detailed breakdown of the revised send money Mpesa charges:
M-Pesa Transfer Fees (Person to Person)
Fee: KES 0
Amount (KES)
Fee (KES)
1 – 100
Free
101 – 500
7
501 – 1,000
13
1,001 – 1,500
23
1,501 – 2,500
33
2,501 – 3,500
53
3,501 – 5,000
57
5,001 – 7,500
78
7,501 – 10,000
90
10,001 – 15,000
100
15,001 – 20,000
105
20,001 – 250,000
108
The maximum amount that can be sent in a single transaction is KES 250,000, with a daily limit of KES 500,000. This new structure reflects Safaricom's commitment to making Mpesa more accessible and convenient for all users.
New Mpesa Withdrawal Charges
Mpesa charges on withdrawal services have been revised for 2025, featuring increased fees relative to money transfers. These charges differ depending on the withdrawal amount, promoting transparency and affordability for users across various transaction tiers. Withdrawals below KES 50 are prohibited, and the maximum withdrawal per transaction is set at KES 250,000.
For instance, withdrawing KES 500 results in a fee of KES 29. Here is a detailed breakdown of the revised withdrawal charges:
M-Pesa Withdrawal Fees
Fee: KES N/A
Withdrawal Amount (KES)
Fee (KES)
1 – 49
N/A
50 – 100
11
101 – 2,500
29
2,501 – 3,500
52
3,501 – 5,000
69
5,001 – 7,500
87
7,501 – 10,000
115
10,001 – 15,000
167
15,001 – 20,000
185
20,001 – 35,000
197
35,001 – 50,000
278
50,001 – 250,000
309
These withdrawal charges reflect Safaricom's focus on maintaining a reliable cash-out service while addressing operational costs and user needs. The updated fees are designed to accommodate different withdrawal amounts efficiently.
Conclusion
The 2025 Mpesa charges highlight Safaricom's dedication to evolving its services to align with user needs and tackle issues like fraud and operational efficiency. By standardizing sending fees across networks, ending transfers to unregistered users, and adjusting withdrawal charges, Mpesa seeks to offer enhanced transparency and convenience for its expanding customer base.
These updates arrive as Mpesa continues to be a leading force in Kenya's financial landscape, serving millions of users and businesses every day. As Safaricom advances its services, users can anticipate enhanced security, smoother transactions, and cutting-edge solutions to further broaden financial inclusion. Whether it's transferring money, withdrawing cash, or handling daily transactions, Mpesa remains a fundamental pillar of digital finance in Kenya.
Stay informed about these updates to make the most of Mpesa services and plan your transactions efficiently.
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