M-Pesa Charges 2025
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M-Pesa Loans & Fuliza

The world is changing rapidly, and so is Kenya, particularly in terms of accessing credit and financing. Gone are the days when one had to rely solely on traditional banking methods, as today's technology has made accessing Quick credit easy. Safaricom, through its M-Pesa Platform, offers powerful financial tools such as Fuliza, M-Shwari, and KCB M-Pesa, which have become a game changer for everyday Kenyans.

Are you completing a payment and need a slight boost with Fuliza? Considering an M-Shwari loan for an unexpected expense? Or do you need the flexible repayment terms of KCB M-Pesa? Whatever your need, below you can find our interactive tools and guides to help you get started.

Instant M-Pesa Tools

Fuliza Calculator

Cost Summary

Overdraft UsedKES 0.00
Access Fee (1%)KES 0.00
Daily Fees (Total)KES 0.00
Total to RepayKES 0.00

M-Shwari Loan Calculator

Repayment Summary

PrincipalKES 0.00
Processing Fee (7.5%)KES 0.00
Excise Duty (20% of Fee)KES 0.00
Total to RepayKES 0.00

KCB M-Pesa Loan Calculator

Repayment Summary

PrincipalKES 0.00
Negotiation Fee (8.96%)KES 0.00
Excise Duty (20% of Fee)KES 0.00
Total to RepayKES 0.00

Fuliza Vs M-Shwari Vs KCB M-Pesa

Fuliza, M-Shwari, or KCB M-Pesa? Use this table to compare their costs and features to find the best fit for your situation.

Feature Fuliza M-Shwari KCB M-Pesa
Partner Bank NCBA Bank & KCB Bank NCBA Bank KCB Bank
Service Type Overdraft Service Loan & Savings Loan & Savings
Primary Cost 1% Access Fee + Daily Fees 7.5% One-off Fee 8.96% Monthly Fee
Repayment Period Continuous (as you top up) 30 days Flexible (1-6 months)
Best For Completing transactions Short-term personal loans Flexible, slightly larger loans

Blog & Guides

Fuliza M-PESA: How to Opt-In/Out, Know Interest Rates & Increase Limit

In 2025, Fuliza remains one of Kenya's most widely used financial tools, providing millions of M-PESA users with an easy way to manage short-term liquidity through mobile overdrafts. Launched by Safaricom in partnership with NCBA and KCB, Fuliza has grown into a digital credit solution deeply woven into Kenya's mobile money ecosystem.

If you are a new user to Fuliza or perhaps an existing user looking to grow their loans, here is all that you need to understand about Fuliza M-PESA in a nutshell.

How do I opt in or out of Fuliza?

Getting started with Fuliza is quick and simple, provided you have an active M-PESA account and a registered Safaricom line.

To opt in:
  • Dial *334# using your Safaricom line.
  • Select "Fuliza M-PESA."
  • Follow the prompts to accept terms and conditions.
  • Once done, you'll receive an SMS confirmation showing your approved limit.

Alternatively, you can activate it via the MySafaricom App under the M-PESA section.

To opt out:
  • Dial *334#.
  • Choose "Fuliza M-PESA."
  • Select "Opt-Out."

Note: Opting out doesn't affect your credit history but halts access to the overdraft until you opt back in.

What are the charges and interest rates?

Fuliza's cost structure is based on a tiered system and includes access fees, daily maintenance fees, and government taxes. The fees are two-fold. First, there is a one-time access fee of 1% charged on the amount you overdraw. Second, and more significantly, a tiered daily access fee is applied for as long as the overdraft remains unpaid.

Here's a complete breakdown:

Overdraft Band (KES) Daily Fee (KES)
0 – 100 0.00
101 – 500 2.50
501 – 1000 5.00
1001 – 1500 10.00
1501 – 2500 15.00
2501 – 70,000 25.00

It's important to note that these daily fees, along with the initial 1% access fee, are also subject to a 20% excise duty. Additionally, Fuliza applies a Waiver Policy: If you borrow less than KES 1,000 and repay within 3 days, the daily maintenance fee is waived entirely. This policy encourages prompt repayment and reduces the cost of small, short-term borrowing.

The maximum Fuliza limit varies from one account to another and is reviewed every 90 days, but the maximum you can receive is KSh 70,000.

How to Increase your Fuliza limit?

Fuliza limits are not static—they evolve based on your M-PESA behavior and Fuliza usage. Safaricom evaluates each user's eligibility through quarterly reviews and algorithm-based scoring systems.

To increase your limit, all you need to do is:

  • Maintain active M-PESA usage for over 6 months.
  • Use Fuliza frequently but repay consistently and promptly.
  • Keep a rich transaction history including buying airtime, paying bills, and sending money.
  • Occasionally opt out and opt back in, as this may trigger a limit re-evaluation.
  • Save consistently with M-Shwari or KCB M-PESA to demonstrate financial discipline.
  • Avoid late repayments since Fuliza is not like a loan with a fixed due date, but daily fees keep accumulating.
  • Ensure regular deposits into M-PESA to show financial activity.
  • Use additional Safaricom financial services like M-Shwari and KCB M-PESA.

Learn more about Fuliza by checking these official source https://www.safaricom.co.ke/main-m-pesa/m-pesa-services/credit-and-savings/fuliza-mobile

M-Shwari in 2025: Opt-In/Opt-Out, Interest Rates & How to Use

M-Shwari is another popular tool offered on the M-Pesa app or STK platform, launched in 2012 through a partnership between Safaricom and NCBA Bank. This tool allows M-PESA users a simple and efficient way to save and borrow money without visiting a bank. By 2025, the platform has amassed millions of users and remains one of Kenya's most used mobile loan and savings services.

Here is all to know about M-Shwari in Kenya.

How does M-Shwari work in 2025?

M-Shwari functions as a mobile savings and microloan service built directly into the M-PESA ecosystem. In 2025, its simplicity and accessibility remain its greatest strengths, allowing users to save as little as KSh 1 and borrow from as low as KSh 100 up to KSh 250,000, depending on their creditworthiness.

Savings Mechanism

M-Shwari savings accounts require no paperwork and no minimum balance. Users earn an interest rate of up to 6.3% per annum, calculated daily and paid quarterly. For users looking for more disciplined saving, the Lock Savings Account allows you to set a specific savings target and timeline—anywhere between one and six months. Funds are locked for the chosen period, and you earn an enhanced interest rate of up to 9% per annum. The funds, along with interest, are released only after maturity.

Loan Process

Loans are instant, collateral-free, and granted based on your M-PESA transaction history, savings behavior, and usage of Safaricom services. New users must be active on M-PESA for at least six months before qualifying. Loan amounts typically range between KSh 100 and KSh 250,000, although most new users start with a lower limit, usually KSh 500 to KSh 2,000, which grows based on usage and repayment behavior.

Every loan carries a flat 9% fee, which includes a 7.5% loan fee and a 1.5% government excise duty. The loan must be repaid within 30 days, and delays result in restricted access and potential CRB listing.

M-Shwari continues to be a lifeline for short-term borrowing and disciplined saving in 2025.

What are opt-in and opt-out options for M-Shwari?

Opting in or out of M-Shwari has never been easier, but your choice carries key implications. Whether you're looking to activate your account or disengage entirely, understanding each path is critical.

Opt-In

To activate M-Shwari:

  • Dial *334# → "Loans and Savings" → Select M-Shwari.
  • Or, open your M-PESA app and navigate to the "Loans and Savings" tab.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts to accept the terms and activate your account.
Opt-Out

To fully deactivate M-Shwari:

  • Visit an NCBA branch and fill out a formal account closure form.
  • Ensure any outstanding loans are cleared and your balance withdrawn.
  • Your loan limit history may be reset if you opt in again later.

M-Shwari Interest Rates

M-Shwari continues to offer competitive returns for savers. The standard savings earn up to 6.3% per annum, with interest calculated daily and paid quarterly. There's no minimum balance required. The Lock Savings Accounts, on the other hand, provide up to 9% per annum. You choose your savings goal and duration (1–6 months), and interest is paid only if the funds remain untouched until maturity.

In addition to the varying interests depending on your type of savings account, M-Shwari loans maintain a flat 9% cost, which includes a 7.5% loan fee and 1.5% excise duty (government tax).

This total is paid upfront, with the full principal and interest due within 30 days. Failure to repay on time leads to restricted loan access and potential listing on the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB).

How To Increase M-Shwari Limits from Zero

Most new users start with a lower limit, typically KES 500 to KES 2,000, which grows based on usage, savings, and repayment behavior. However, there are those with zero limits. If you are having a zero M-Shwari limit, did you know that there are steps you can take to grow or increase your limits? They are:

  • Maintain active M-PESA usage for at least six months.
  • Use Safaricom voice, data, and SMS services consistently.
  • Save small amounts regularly via M-Shwari.
  • Always repay outstanding loans in time, as late repayment lowers your score.
  • Borrow frequently and responsibly to build a loan history.
  • Keep your M-Shwari savings active to show financial discipline.

Learn more about M-Shwari by checking this official article https://www.safaricom.co.ke/main-mpesa/m-pesa-services/credit-and-savings

KCB M-PESA: What is it and How does it work

KCB M-PESA continues to stand out as one of the most accessible and widely used mobile banking services in Kenya, seamlessly combining Safaricom's mobile money dominance with KCB Bank's financial expertise. With 34 million active M-PESA users, the integration of KCB's loan and savings features into the M-PESA ecosystem continues to transform how Kenyans manage their finances. According to Safaricom's 2025 Q1 report, over 13 million users have active KCB M-PESA accounts, making it one of the most popular loan products in the country.

What is KCB M-PESA?

KCB M-PESA is a mobile micro-finance platform born from a partnership between Safaricom and KCB Bank Kenya, first launched in 2015. It allows users to save and borrow money directly from their M-PESA menu, without visiting a physical bank. Fast forward to 2025, and KCB M-PESA has evolved into a lifeline for millions who need instant access to credit or want to earn interest on mobile savings.

What makes it more relevant than ever is that anyone with an M-PESA account can use KCB M-PESA, even without a formal bank account or payslip. Additionally, loans are approved in seconds, based on transaction history, while savings accounts accrue daily interest.

How do I opt in or activate KCB M-PESA?

Activating KCB M-PESA is simple and entirely mobile-based. You don't need to visit a KCB branch or fill out paperwork. Here's how to get started:

Option 1: Via SIM Toolkit (STK Menu)
  • On your phone, go to the M-PESA menu from your SIM Toolkit.
  • Select Loans and Savings.
  • Choose KCB M-PESA.
  • Follow the prompts to activate.
  • You'll receive a confirmation SMS once activated.
Option 2: Via M-PESA App (MySafaricom App)
  • Open the app and go to the M-PESA section.
  • Tap on Loans and Savings, then select KCB M-PESA.
  • Tap Activate, and you're good to go.

Once activated, your account is automatically linked to your M-PESA wallet. From this point, you can begin saving or borrowing instantly.

Requirements:
  • You must be an M-PESA registered user.
  • Your SIM must be active for at least six months.
  • Regular usage of M-PESA services increases your loan eligibility.

Savings and loan options available

KCB M-PESA offers two main services: saving and borrowing. Each has its own features, terms, and fees. Here's what's available in 2025:

1. Savings Options

KCB M-PESA provides two distinct savings products designed to meet different financial goals. The Fixed Savings Account allows you to lock in a fixed amount for a set duration ranging from 1 to 12 months, offering higher interest rates for longer commitment periods. The Target Savings Account enables you to set a specific goal amount and save towards it gradually, providing flexibility to add funds whenever convenient. Both savings products offer interest that is compounded daily and paid upon maturity, maximizing your earning potential.

2. Loan Options

KCB M-PESA offers instant micro-loans that are short-term personal loans based on your transaction activity. Loan limits range from KES 100 to KES 1,000,000 depending on your credit score and M-PESA usage history. The loan tenure is 30 days for all borrowing amounts. The Interest as of June 2025 is 8.91% per loan attracting a Total cost: KES 108.91 for every KES 1,000 borrowed

How do I use KCB M-PESA for savings and loans?

Using KCB M-PESA is designed to be intuitive. Once you've activated the service, here's how to access loans or start saving:

To Borrow a Loan:
  • Open M-PESA menu > Loans and Savings > KCB M-PESA.
  • Choose Loan.
  • Enter the amount (must be within your loan limit).
  • Confirm with your M-PESA PIN.
  • Funds are deposited instantly to your M-PESA account.
  • Repayment is due in 30 days. Early repayments are allowed and encouraged to boost your loan limit.
To Start Saving:
  • Open KCB M-PESA via the M-PESA menu.
  • Choose either Fixed Savings or Target Savings.
For Fixed Savings:
  • Select deposit amount.
  • Choose duration (1–12 months).
  • Confirm with PIN.
For Target Savings:
  • Set savings goal and timeline.
  • Add to savings anytime via "Top Up".

You can learn more about KCB M-Pesa by checking these official article https://www.safaricom.co.ke/main-m-pesa/m-pesa-services/credit-and-savings/kcb-m-pesa-account

Frequently Asked Questions

The quickest loans via M-Pesa are typically from M-Shwari, KCB M-Pesa, or the Fuliza overdraft service. To get started, go to your M-Pesa menu, select "Loans and Savings," and choose to activate one of the services. Once your account is active and you have a loan limit, you can borrow money instantly, and it will be deposited directly into your M-Pesa account.

M-Shwari does not charge an interest rate. Instead, it charges a one-time processing fee of 7.5%. For a KES 1,000 loan, the fee is KES 75. After adding the 20% excise duty on the fee (KES 15), the total amount to repay is KES 1,090.

For a standard 30-day loan, KCB M-Pesa charges a negotiation fee of 8.96% on the loan amount. This fee is also subject to a 20% excise duty. Longer loan terms (e.g., 3 or 6 months) will have different rates.

Fuliza charges a daily access fee, not interest. This fee is tiered: KES 5 per day for overdrafts of KES 101-500, KES 10 per day for KES 501-1000, and so on. There is also a 1% one-time access fee charged when you initiate the overdraft.

To qualify, you must be a Safaricom subscriber for at least six months, have an active M-Pesa account, and save on M-Shwari. Your M-Pesa usage history (deposits, payments, etc.) and savings behavior are used to determine your eligibility and loan limit.

You can increase your M-Shwari loan limit by consistently using Safaricom and M-Pesa services, saving money regularly in your M-Shwari account, and always repaying your M-Shwari loans on time or early.

A zero limit can be due to several reasons: being a new Safaricom user, having an inactive M-Pesa account, having a negative listing with the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB), or having previously defaulted on an M-Shwari loan. Increasing your M-Pesa activity and savings can help change this over time.

Similar to M-Shwari, you generally need to be an active M-Pesa user for at least six months. After activating your KCB M-Pesa account, your limit is assessed based on your past M-Pesa transactions, savings, and borrowing history.

This could be because your account activity does not meet the minimum requirements, you have a low credit score, or you have an outstanding defaulted loan with KCB M-Pesa or another lender that is listed with the CRB.

To increase your Fuliza limit, you should actively use Safaricom services, especially M-Pesa for sending money and making payments. Consistently using and repaying your Fuliza overdraft promptly will demonstrate responsible usage and can lead to a limit review.

Go to your M-Pesa menu on your phone, select "Loans and Savings," then choose "M-Shwari." You will be prompted to read and accept the terms and conditions to activate your account. Once done, you can view your loan limit and start saving or borrowing.

You don't borrow from Fuliza like a normal loan. Simply try to make a transaction (send money or Lipa na M-Pesa) that is more than your M-Pesa balance. If you have a Fuliza limit, a pop-up will appear asking you to confirm if you want to complete the transaction using Fuliza.

First, ensure you have repaid any outstanding Fuliza balance. Once your balance is zero, dial *334#, select "Fuliza M-Pesa," and choose the "Opt-out" option. You will be unsubscribed from the service.

For M-Shwari or KCB M-Pesa, go to the "Loans and Savings" section of your M-Pesa menu and select the respective service. Choose the "Check Balance" or "Loan Status" option. For Fuliza, your outstanding balance is shown whenever you make a transaction or by dialing *334#.

Yes. M-Shwari is a banking product from NCBA Bank. If you default on your loan (fail to pay it back within the specified period, including the grace period), they have the right to forward your details to the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB), which will negatively affect your credit score.

Paying your KCB M-Pesa loan late will result in your loan limit being reduced or frozen. Your details may also be forwarded to the CRB, impacting your ability to get loans from other financial institutions in the future.

No, you can only have one active M-Shwari loan at a time. You must fully repay your existing loan before you can become eligible to borrow another one.

M-Shwari is a product owned and operated by NCBA Bank, offered in partnership with Safaricom PLC, which provides the M-Pesa platform for access.

No, you cannot withdraw Fuliza funds as cash from an M-Pesa agent. Fuliza is an overdraft service designed only for digital transactions, such as sending money to another M-Pesa user or paying for goods and services via Lipa na M-Pesa (Buy Goods and Paybill).

The question of whether Fuliza is halal (permissible in Islamic law) is a matter of debate among Islamic scholars. Some view the daily access fees as a form of interest (riba), which is haram (forbidden). Others may interpret it as a service fee (ujra). Individuals should consult with their trusted religious scholars to form their own conclusion based on their interpretation of Islamic finance principles.

Disclaimer: This tool provides estimates for educational purposes based on publicly available fee structures. All fees, rates, and loan limits are ultimately determined by Safaricom, NCBA Bank, and KCB Bank. Joweni is not a financial institution and is not affiliated with these entities.