Quick Answer: SHA Paybill Details
SHA Paybill Number: 200222 Account Number: Your National ID Number Minimum Monthly Payment: KES 300 Contribution Rate: 2.75% of gross income
Introduction
Making your health insurance payments just got easier with the SHA paybill system. Since October 2024, millions of Kenyans have switched from the old NHIF system to the new Social Health Authority payment platform. Whether you’re employed, self-employed, or looking to pay for your family members, understanding how to use the SHA paybill number can save you time and hassle.
The SHA paybill number makes paying your monthly health contributions as simple as sending money through M-Pesa. No more long queues at offices or complicated banking procedures. Just grab your phone, dial a few numbers, and you’re covered.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the SHA paybill system, from payment rates to step-by-step instructions for different payment methods.
What is SHA Paybill?
SHA paybill is the official payment channel for making contributions to Kenya’s Social Health Authority. The SHA paybill number 200222 is your gateway to paying monthly health insurance contributions through mobile money platforms like M-Pesa.
Think of it as your direct line to healthcare coverage. Instead of visiting physical offices or dealing with paperwork, you can pay your SHA contributions from anywhere in the country using your phone. The system accepts payments for individual contributions, family coverage, and even allows you to pay for your elderly parents or dependents.
The Social Health Authority replaced the National Hospital Insurance Fund in October 2024 as part of Kenya’s push toward universal health coverage. Under the Social Health Insurance Act of 2023, every Kenyan citizen and resident must register and contribute to one of SHA’s three funds: the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), Primary Healthcare Fund, or Emergency, Chronic, and Critical Illness Fund.
Why Kenyans Need the SHA Paybill System
The SHA paybill system solves several problems that Kenyans faced with the old payment methods:
Convenience and Accessibility You can pay your contributions anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re at home in Nairobi, working on your farm in Nakuru, or running your business in Mombasa, the SHA paybill number works for you 24/7.
Instant Confirmation Gone are the days of wondering if your payment went through. When you pay through the SHA paybill, you receive immediate confirmation via SMS from both M-Pesa and SHA.
No Hidden Charges The standard M-Pesa transaction charges apply, but there are no additional SHA processing fees. What you pay is what gets credited to your account.
Family Coverage Made Easy You can pay for multiple family members using the same system. Just use their National ID numbers as the account number when making payments.
Better Record Keeping All your SHA paybill transactions are stored in your M-Pesa history, making it easy to track payments for tax purposes or personal records.
Types of SHA Payment Methods in Kenya
M-Pesa Paybill Payment
The most popular method among Kenyans. Simply use the SHA paybill number 200222 with your ID number as the account number. Payments reflect instantly, and you get immediate confirmation.
USSD Payment Option
For feature phone users or those who prefer a more guided process, dial *147# to access the SHA payment portal. This method walks you through the payment steps with prompts.
Online Portal Payment
Visit afyayangu.go.ke or sha.go.ke to make payments through the official SHA website. You’ll need to log in with your National ID and password, then navigate to the payment section.
Bank Transfer for Employers
Employers remitting bulk payments for their employees don’t use the SHA paybill number. Instead, they transfer contributions to one of six designated bank accounts managed by SHA.
Lipa SHA Pole Pole (Hustler Fund Integration)
This flexible payment option allows you to make daily, weekly, or monthly installments through the Hustler Fund platform. Perfect for Kenyans with irregular income streams.
How to Choose the Best SHA Payment Method
Your choice of payment method depends on several factors:
Consider Your Phone Type Do you have a smartphone with the M-Pesa app or a feature phone? Smartphone users find the M-Pesa app faster, while feature phone users might prefer the USSD *147# option.
Think About Your Income Pattern If you’re formally employed with regular monthly income, the standard SHA paybill payment works perfectly. But if you’re a jua kali worker or freelancer with irregular earnings, the Lipa SHA Pole Pole option gives you flexibility to pay in smaller amounts.
Evaluate Your Digital Skills Not everyone is comfortable with online portals. If you struggle with websites and passwords, stick to the simple M-Pesa paybill method that you already know.
Check Your Payment Frequency Making monthly lump sum payments? Use M-Pesa directly. Prefer spreading payments throughout the month? The Hustler Fund integration might work better.
Factor in Transaction Costs All methods have similar costs, but M-Pesa charges vary based on the amount you’re sending. For large payments, bank transfers might save you a few shillings in transaction fees.
Cost of SHA Contributions in Kenya
Understanding what you’ll pay helps you budget effectively. Here’s the complete breakdown:
| Employment Status | Monthly Rate | Minimum Payment | Maximum Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaried Employees | 2.75% of gross salary | KES 300 | No cap |
| Self-Employed | 2.75% of annual household income | KES 300 | No cap |
| Informal Sector Workers | Based on means testing | KES 300 | Varies |
| Unemployed (Voluntary) | Fixed rate or means-tested | KES 300 | KES 500-600 average |
Real-World Examples:
Case 1: Office Worker Earning KES 30,000 Monthly
- Contribution: 2.75% × 30,000 = KES 825 per month
- Annual total: KES 9,900
Case 2: Small Business Owner Earning KES 15,000 Monthly
- After means testing: Average KES 600 per month
- Annual total: KES 7,200
Case 3: Executive Earning KES 200,000 Monthly
- Contribution: 2.75% × 200,000 = KES 5,500 per month
- Annual total: KES 66,000
Case 4: Casual Worker at Minimum Wage
- Minimum contribution: KES 300 per month
- Annual total: KES 3,600
According to recent data from the Ministry of Health, self-employed Kenyans are paying an average of KES 600 monthly, which is double the initially promised KES 300 minimum. This higher figure comes from the means testing tool that calculates contributions based on household assets and income sources.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Pay Using SHA Paybill
Method 1: M-Pesa Paybill (Most Popular)
Step 1: Open your M-Pesa menu by dialing *334# or opening the M-Pesa app on your smartphone.
Step 2: Select “Lipa na M-Pesa” from the main menu options.
Step 3: Choose “Pay Bill” (not “Buy Goods and Services”).
Step 4: Enter the SHA paybill number: 200222
Step 5: For the account number, enter your National ID number exactly as it appears on your ID card. If you’re paying for someone else, use their ID number.
Step 6: Type in the amount you need to pay. Make sure it matches your required contribution or is at least KES 300.
Step 7: Enter your M-Pesa PIN to authorize the transaction.
Step 8: Confirm all the details are correct before pressing OK.
Step 9: Wait for the confirmation SMS from M-Pesa showing your payment was successful. You should also receive a second SMS from SHA confirming they received your contribution.
Method 2: USSD Payment via *147#
Step 1: Dial *147# on any mobile phone.
Step 2: Select your registration category (Kenyan citizen = 1).
Step 3: Enter your National ID number when prompted.
Step 4: Choose “Make Payment” from the menu.
Step 5: Select your financier (mobile money provider).
Step 6: Enter the payment amount.
Step 7: Follow the remaining prompts to complete your payment.
Step 8: Receive confirmation via SMS.
Method 3: Online Payment Portal
Step 1: Visit afyayangu.go.ke or sha.go.ke using your computer or smartphone browser.
Step 2: Click on “Login” and enter your National ID number and password. If you haven’t set up a password yet, follow the registration process first.
Step 3: Once logged in, find the “Payments” or “Make Contribution” section on your dashboard.
Step 4: Select “Pay via M-Pesa” as your payment method.
Step 5: Enter the amount you wish to pay.
Step 6: You’ll receive an M-Pesa STK push notification on your phone. Enter your PIN to complete the transaction.
Step 7: Return to the portal to verify your payment status.
Important Payment Tips:
- Always double-check the SHA paybill number is 200222
- Verify your ID number is entered correctly
- Keep all payment confirmation messages for your records
- Payments typically reflect within minutes, but allow up to 24 hours during system maintenance
- If paying for dependents, use their ID numbers, not yours
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Wrong Paybill Number Some Kenyans accidentally use old NHIF numbers or other government paybill numbers. Always confirm you’re using 200222 for SHA payments.
Incorrect Account Number Format Your account number should be your full National ID number without spaces or dashes. For example, use “12345678” not “1234-5678” or “1234 5678”.
Paying Less Than the Minimum Even if your calculated contribution is below KES 300, you must still pay at least KES 300 monthly. The system might reject smaller amounts.
Not Confirming Payment Went Through Always wait for both M-Pesa and SHA confirmation messages. If you don’t receive SHA confirmation within 24 hours, follow up.
Paying to the Wrong Person’s Account When paying for family members, carefully verify you’re using the correct ID number. Payments to wrong accounts are hard to reverse.
Missing Payment Deadlines Late payments attract a 2% penalty on the unpaid amount. Set reminders to pay by the 9th of each month if you’re employed, or before your annual contribution expires if self-employed.
Not Updating Employment Status If you lose your job or change from employed to self-employed status, update your SHA profile. Otherwise, you might be charged incorrect amounts.
Ignoring Means Testing Self-employed individuals must complete the means testing process to determine their correct contribution amount. Skipping this step can lead to overpayment or account issues.
Future Trends in Kenya’s Healthcare Payment Systems
Digital Health Integration
SHA plans to implement blockchain technology for secure health records and payment tracking. This means your contribution history and medical records will be permanently stored and easily accessible across all healthcare facilities in Kenya.
AI-Powered Payment Assistance
The Authority is developing artificial intelligence tools to help Kenyans calculate their correct contributions and predict healthcare needs. Think of it as a smart assistant that reminds you when payments are due and suggests the best payment plans for your situation.
Mobile App Expansion
A dedicated SHA mobile application is in development. Soon, you won’t need to memorize the SHA paybill number or navigate USSD menus. Everything from registration to payment to claims tracking will happen in one app.
Expanded Payment Options
SHA is working with more fintech companies to accept payments through Airtel Money, T-Kash, and other digital wallets. Cryptocurrency payments might also become an option for diaspora Kenyans.
Automatic Payment Plans
Similar to how M-Shwari and KCB M-Pesa work, SHA may introduce auto-debit features where your contribution is automatically deducted on a set date each month from your M-Pesa account.
Integration with Tax Systems
The Kenya Revenue Authority and SHA are collaborating to make SHA contributions tax-deductible. This means your monthly payments could reduce your overall tax burden, putting more money back in your pocket.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SHA paybill number in Kenya? The official SHA paybill number is 200222. Use this number for all M-Pesa payments to the Social Health Authority. Your account number should be your National ID number.
How much should I pay to SHA every month? Salaried employees pay 2.75% of their gross salary with a minimum of KES 300. Self-employed individuals pay based on means testing, averaging around KES 600 monthly. The exact amount depends on your household income and circumstances.
Can I pay SHA contributions for my parents? Yes, you can pay for your parents or any family member using the SHA paybill. Simply use their National ID number as the account number when making the payment through M-Pesa.
What happens if I miss my SHA payment? Missing payments attracts a 2% penalty on the unpaid amount for each month you’re late. Continuous non-payment can lead to suspension of your healthcare benefits and potential legal action under the Social Health Insurance Act.
How do I know if my SHA payment went through? You’ll receive two confirmation messages: one from M-Pesa confirming the transaction, and another from SHA confirming receipt of your contribution. You can also check your payment status by logging into sha.go.ke or dialing *147#.
Can I pay SHA annually instead of monthly? Self-employed individuals can pay their annual contribution upfront, which is 2.75% of their yearly household income. However, payment must be made at least 14 days before your current coverage expires. Employed individuals have monthly deductions automatically made by their employers.
My Personal Experience with SHA Paybill
When SHA first launched in October 2024, I’ll admit I was skeptical. The transition from NHIF seemed confusing, and I worried about losing my coverage during the changeover. But using the SHA paybill number has actually made my life simpler.
Last November, I needed to pay for both my elderly mother and myself. Under the old NHIF system, this meant filling out forms, visiting offices, and waiting in line. With the SHA paybill, I completed both payments in under five minutes from my phone while having tea in my living room.
The first time I used the SHA paybill number 200222, I was nervous about entering the details correctly. I triple-checked the paybill number and my ID before hitting send. The instant M-Pesa confirmation gave me peace of mind, and when the SHA confirmation message came through about 10 minutes later, I knew everything was properly recorded.
One challenge I faced was helping my mother, who’s 68 and not very tech-savvy, understand the system. She kept asking, “Where’s my card? How will the hospital know I’ve paid?” I showed her how to save the confirmation messages and explained that her National ID is now her healthcare card. After her first successful visit to Kenyatta National Hospital using just her ID, she became a believer.
The means testing process was eye-opening too. As a freelance writer with variable income, I expected to pay the minimum KES 300. But after answering questions about my household assets, internet access, and other factors, my monthly contribution was set at KES 650. While higher than expected, it’s still more affordable than private insurance, and knowing my entire family is covered gives me peace of mind.
The Lipa SHA Pole Pole option has been a game-changer for months when client payments arrive late. Instead of scrambling to find KES 650 all at once, I can make smaller payments throughout the month through the Hustler Fund. This flexibility has helped me avoid late payment penalties.
Key Takeaways
Remember These Essential Points:
- The SHA paybill number is 200222 for all M-Pesa payments
- Always use your National ID number as the account number
- Minimum monthly contribution is KES 300, calculated at 2.75% of gross income
- Multiple payment methods available: M-Pesa, USSD *147#, online portal, or Lipa Pole Pole
- Confirmation messages from both M-Pesa and SHA verify successful payments
- Late payments incur 2% monthly penalties
- You can pay for family members using their ID numbers
- Self-employed individuals should complete means testing to determine correct contributions
- Payments typically reflect instantly but can take up to 24 hours
- Keep all payment confirmations for your records
Paying your SHA contributions doesn’t have to be complicated. With the SHA paybill number 200222 saved in your phone and your National ID handy, you’re always just a few taps away from maintaining your healthcare coverage.
Conclusion
The SHA paybill system represents a significant step forward in making healthcare accessible to all Kenyans. Whether you’re a salaried employee, self-employed entrepreneur, or informal sector worker, the SHA paybill number 200222 is your direct link to universal health coverage.
Taking control of your health insurance is now as simple as sending money to a friend through M-Pesa. No more excuses about long queues or complicated processes. Your family’s health security is literally in your hands.
If you’re still using old payment methods or haven’t registered with SHA yet, today is the perfect day to start. Grab your phone, dial *147# or use the SHA paybill through M-Pesa, and give yourself the gift of healthcare peace of mind. Your future self will thank you.
Need more guidance on managing your finances while staying covered? Check out online jobs in Kenya for opportunities to boost your income and easily afford your SHA contributions.
Ready to make your first SHA payment? Share your experience in the comments below. Have you found the SHA paybill system easy to use? What challenges did you face? Your insights could help fellow Kenyans navigate the system more smoothly.
Sources and References
This blog post is backed by authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness:
- Social Health Insurance Act, 2023 – The official legislation establishing SHA and defining contribution requirements
- Ministry of Health Kenya – Official government announcements and SHA implementation guidelines
- Willow Health Media – Healthcare journalism covering SHA payment procedures and “Lipa SHA Pole Pole” program (https://willowhealthmedia.org/)
- Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (https://www.knbs.or.ke/) – Statistical data on healthcare coverage and SHA registration numbers
- Business Daily Africa (https://www.businessdailyafrica.com/) – Financial reporting on SHA contribution rates and employer obligations
- The Star Kenya – News reports on actual SHA payment averages and means testing outcomes
- Faidi HR Kenya – Professional HR and payroll compliance information for SHA employer contributions (https://faidihr.com/)
- Step By Step Insurance – Expert analysis and FAQs on Social Health Authority operations (https://stepbystepinsurance.co.ke/)
All information about the SHA paybill number, payment procedures, and contribution rates has been verified against official government sources and updated for 2025 accuracy.
Did you find this SHA paybill guide helpful? We’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment sharing your experience or any questions you still have about making SHA payments. Your testimonial might help other Kenyans who are struggling with the same concerns. Together, we can make healthcare accessible for every Kenyan family.
