How To Pay NHIF Penalty via M-Pesa in Kenya (Updated For 2024)

Late payments and penalties in the context of the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) in Kenya are crucial aspects that every member should comprehend. NHIF, established in 1966 under the Ministry of Health, is pivotal in ensuring Kenyans' access to healthcare services. However, failing to meet your financial commitments to NHIF can lead to penalties and disrupt the essential benefits it offers. 

NHIF Late Payment Penalties:

NHIF imposes penalties on members who fail to make their contributions on time. These penalties encourage punctual payments and maintain the fund's stability. Understanding the penalties is essential for every NHIF member, whether you are part of the formal sector or self-employed.

For those in the formal sector, late payment penalties are particularly hefty. If you do not contribute by the 9th of each month, you must pay double your regular contribution. This means that if your monthly contribution is, for example, Ksh. 500, a late payment would incur Ksh. 1000.

Self-employed individuals are not spared either; they face a 50% penalty for late payments. Using the same Ksh. 500 monthly contribution as an example, a late payment for a self-employed individual would amount to Ksh. 750. The distinction between the formal and self-employed sectors lies in the penalty calculation. Still, both sectors must be diligent in making timely payments to avoid these penalties.

Importance of Timely Payments:

The importance of making timely NHIF payments cannot be overstated. NHIF's primary goal is to provide affordable and accessible healthcare services to its members. When payments are delayed, it disrupts this crucial objective. Late payments can frustrate members and hinder them from accessing the healthcare services they depend on.

NHIF is a safety net for many Kenyans, relying on members' contributions to function effectively. Prompt payments ensure that the fund has the resources necessary to cover medical expenses for its members. By understanding the penalties and making timely payments, you not only avoid financial penalties but also contribute to the overall success of NHIF in providing healthcare services to all Kenyans.

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Payment Modes and Contributions

Thankfully, NHIF provides a solution for members who have incurred penalties due to late payments. You can pay your NHIF penalties conveniently through M-Pesa, a popular mobile money service in Kenya. This option eliminates the need to visit a physical office and streamlines the payment process.

Payment Options:

NHIF understands the importance of offering various payment modes to cater to its members' convenience. When it comes to remitting your contributions, you have several options at your disposal:

1. M-PESA:

 NHIF allows members to pay their contributions via M-Pesa. You can use the NHIF PayBill Number 200222 and your National Identification Number as the Account Number to make your payments. This method is popular due to its ease of use and accessibility.

2. Various Banks: 

NHIF has partnered with several banks, including Equity Bank, National Bank (NBK), Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), and Cooperative Bank. You can visit these banks to make your payments. NHIF printed banking slips are available in these banks for your convenience.

3. Safaricom Bonga Points: 

NHIF has also allowed members to redeem Safaricom Bonga Points to pay for their NHIF contributions. You can dial *126# on your Safaricom phone, navigate to Lipa Na Bonga, and use PayBill Number 200222, with your National Identification Number as the Account Number.

Contributions and Penalties:

Understanding the contribution requirements and penalties is essential to avoid late payments and their associated penalties. Every registered self-employed NHIF member must make a monthly contribution of KES 500 to their NHIF account. For existing members, these contributions should be made on or before the 9th of the following month to avoid penalties.

However, if you fail to make your contributions on time and your payment is delayed beyond the 9th of the following month, NHIF will impose a penalty. The penalty is typically 10% (KES 50) of the voluntary monthly contribution you should have made. To access NHIF services, you must settle any outstanding arrears and penalties.

Making Monthly Contributions via M-PESA:

For many NHIF members, paying their contributions through M-Pesa is convenient. Here are the steps to follow to make your monthly NHIF contributions via M-Pesa:

1. Go to M-PESA Menu: Access the M-Pesa menu on your mobile phone.

2. Click on Lipa Na M-Pesa: Choose the "Lipa na M-Pesa" option.

3. Enter 200222 as the PayBill Number: Input the NHIF PayBill number, 222222.

4. Enter your National Identification Number as the Account Number: Provide your National ID number as the Account Number.

5. Enter KES 500 for every month you wish to pay for: You can either pay for a single month or make bulk payments for several months, up to a maximum of KES 6,000 at a time.

6. Enter your Safaricom PIN Number: Input your M-Pesa PIN to authorize the transaction.

7. You will receive a message from M-PESA confirming that you have successfully contributed. The M-PESA message you receive serves as proof of payment.

Paying Penalties via M-Pesa:

If you've incurred NHIF penalties due to late payments, knowing how to settle these penalties efficiently is essential. Fortunately, NHIF offers a straightforward process for paying penalties via M-Pesa. Here, we'll provide you with a detailed guide on how to go about it:

Step 1: Go to M-PESA Menu:

• Begin by accessing the M-Pesa menu on your mobile phone. This step can usually be completed by dialling MPESA from your phone.

Step 2: Click on Lipa Na M-Pesa:

• After entering the M-Pesa menu, choose the "Lipa na M-Pesa" option. This option is specifically designed for making payments.

Step 3: Select Paybill:

• From the available choices in the Lipa na M-Pesa menu, select "Pay Bill." This option allows you to make payments to various organizations and institutions.

Step 4: Enter 200222 as the PayBill Number:

• Input the NHIF PayBill number, which is 222222. This unique number identifies NHIF as the recipient of your payment.

Step 5: Enter Your National Identification Number

• For the Account Number, provide your National Identification Number (ID) in the format (NHIFP-ID NUMBER e.g. NHIFP-11223344). For example, if your National ID number is 12345678, you should enter it as NHIFP-12345678. 

Step 6: Enter the Penalty Amount:

• Input the specific penalty amount you need to pay. The penalty amount depends on the duration and extent of your late payment. Ensure that you accurately calculate this amount.

Step 7: Enter Your Safaricom PIN Number:

• To authorize the transaction, enter your M-Pesa PIN. This PIN adds a layer of security to your payment.

Step 8: Confirm Payment:

• Before finalizing the transaction, review the details you've entered to ensure accuracy. Verify the PayBill number, Account Number, and the penalty amount. Once you're certain, proceed to confirm your payment.

Step 9: Receive Confirmation:

• Upon completing the transaction, you will receive an M-Pesa confirmation message on your mobile phone. This message serves as proof of your penalty payment and is essential to retain for your records.

Checking NHIF Account Statements:

As an NHIF member, it's crucial to have access to your account statements to stay informed about your contributions, NHIF rates, penalties, and account balance. NHIF offers several convenient methods for members to check their account status and statements:

1. Using the NHIF Selfcare Platform:

 NHIF provides a self-service platform that allows members to access their account information online. This platform is user-friendly and provides a comprehensive overview of your NHIF account.

2. Dialing 155# and Following Prompts:

If you prefer using your mobile phone, you can dial *155# and follow the prompts to access your NHIF account details. This method is quick and accessible from any mobile phone.

3. Using 'My NHIF' App: 

NHIF has developed the 'My NHIF' mobile application, which is available for download from Google Play Store or Apple Store. This app allows you to check your NHIF account statements and access other services conveniently.

4. Visiting the Nearest NHIF Office or Huduma Center: 

For those who prefer in-person assistance, you can visit the nearest NHIF office or Huduma Center to inquire about your account statements. NHIF staff at these locations will be happy to assist you.

5. Sending a Text Message:

You can also check your NHIF account status by sending a text message with the format [ID {space} Your National Identification Number] to 1550. For example, if your ID number is 12345678, you would send the message "ID 12345678" to 1550. You will receive a response with your registration details and the last payment date. Please note that this service comes with an SMS fee of KShs 

How to Activate NHIF After Defaulting:

Suppose you've defaulted on your NHIF payments for more than 12 months. In that case, you may need to reactivate your NHIF membership to regain access to its benefits. Here's how to go about it:

1. Pay KES 1,500: To reactivate your NHIF cover, pay KES 1,500. This amount will act as your three months' contribution.

2. Wait for 60 Days: After making the payment, you must wait 60 days (2 months) from the payment date for your cover to be reactivated.

3. Make Monthly Payments: To ensure continuous coverage and avoid further penalties, you must make monthly payments promptly.

By following these steps, you can reactivate your NHIF membership and resume enjoying the benefits of the NHIF medical scheme.

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In conclusion, NHIF provides various methods for members to access their account statements, check their account status, and reactivate their membership if they have defaulted. These services ensure that NHIF members can maintain coverage and access healthcare services when needed. If you have any further questions or specific requests, please let us know.