How to Pay for StarTimes Subscription Using M-Pesa (2024 Guide)

StarTimes has become a household name in Kenya, offering affordable and diverse pay television packages that cater to the entertainment needs of the entire family. With a wide array of local and international channels, StarTimes ensures something for everyone.

M-Pesa, a revolutionary mobile money transfer service launched by Safaricom, has transformed how Kenyans handle financial transactions. From sending money to loved ones to paying bills, M-Pesa provides a secure and efficient financial management platform. The ease of paying for StarTimes subscriptions through M-Pesa has further contributed to the popularity of both services.

READ ALSO:How to File KRA iTax Returns Online in Kenya (2024 Update)

StarTimes Subscription Packages

StarTimes offers a variety of subscription packages designed to suit different preferences and budgets. Let's take a closer look at the available options:

Nova Bouquet

The Nova bouquet, priced at KES 499 per month, is the most budget-friendly option. It includes a selection of channels providing general entertainment, news, and children's programming, making it ideal for those who want basic television content without breaking the bank.

Smart Bouquet

For those seeking a wider range of channels, the Smart Bouquet is available at KES 999 per month. This package includes additional sports, movie, and lifestyle channels, providing a more diverse entertainment experience for the entire household.

Super Bouquet

The Super bouquet, priced at KES 1,499 per month, offers an extensive selection of premium channels. Subscribers can enjoy the latest movies, live sports events, and exclusive content unavailable in lower-tier packages.

Chinese Package

Tailored for viewers interested in Chinese programming, the Chinese package costs KES 1,999 per month. It features a variety of channels that broadcast news, movies, dramas, and cultural content in Chinese.

Nyota, Basic, and Classic Bouquets

In addition to the aforementioned packages, StarTimes also offers the Nyota bouquet at KES 329 per month, the Basic bouquet at KES 749 per month, and the Classic bouquet at KES 1,149 per month. These packages provide varying levels of access to channels, ensuring that there is an option for every budget and viewing preference.

Requirements for Payment

To successfully pay for your StarTimes subscription via M-Pesa, you'll need the following:

Active M-Pesa Account

Ensure you have an active M-Pesa account with sufficient funds to cover the subscription fee. You can easily top up your M-Pesa account through various methods, such as bank transfers, M-Pesa agents, and ATMs.

StarTimes Smart Card Number

Your unique StarTimes Smart Card Number is crucial for the payment process. This number is linked to your StarTimes account and ensures that the payment is credited to the correct subscription.

StarTimes Business Number

When making the payment through the M-Pesa platform, you'll need to enter the StarTimes business number, which is 585858.

Step-by-Step Guide to Paying via M-Pesa

Follow these simple steps to pay for your StarTimes subscription using M-Pesa:

1. Go to your Mpesa Menu

2. Select Lipa Na Mpesa

3. Select PayBill

4. Enter 585858 as the business number

5.Enter your StarTimes Smart Card Number as your account number

6. Enter the amount you want to pay

7.Enter your Mpesa pin and press OK

8. You will receive a transaction confirmation message from Mpesa and Startimes.

Alternative Payment Methods

While M-Pesa is the most popular payment method for StarTimes subscriptions, there are several other options available for non-M-Pesa users:

Airtel Money

Airtel subscribers can pay for their StarTimes subscription using Airtel Money. The process is similar to M-Pesa, with the main difference being the use of Airtel's mobile money platform.

Equitel

Equitel users can pay for their StarTimes subscription by accessing the Equitel menu on their phone, selecting the payment option, entering the StarTimes business number (585858), their Smart Card Number, and the amount to be paid.

Coop Bank Mcash

Coop Bank customers can use the Mcash service to pay for their StarTimes subscription. Simply access the Mcash menu, select the payment option, enter the StarTimes business number (585858), your Smart Card Number, and the amount to be paid.

Orange Money

Orange subscribers can use Orange Money to pay for their StarTimes subscription. Access the Orange Money menu, select the payment option, enter the StarTimes business number (585858), your Smart Card Number, and the amount to be paid.

EZZAY 247 Equity

Equity Bank customers can use the EZZAY 247 service to pay for their StarTimes subscription. Access the EZZAY 247 menu, select the payment option, enter the StarTimes business number (585858), your Smart Card Number, and the amount to be paid.

Ipay

Ipay subscribers can select their preferred payment method from the Ipay platform to pay for their StarTimes subscription. Follow the instructions on the Ipay platform to complete the payment.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Sometimes, users may encounter issues while making payments. Here are some common problems and solutions to ensure a smooth payment process:

Incorrect Smart Card Number

Entering an incorrect Smart Card Number can result in the payment not being credited to your account. Double-check the number before confirming the payment to avoid this issue.

Insufficient Funds

Ensure your M-Pesa or other mobile money account has sufficient funds to cover the subscription fee. If you receive an insufficient funds error, top up your account and try again.

Network Issues

Network issues can sometimes cause payment failures. If you encounter a network error, wait a few minutes and try the payment again. If the problem persists, contact your mobile service provider for assistance.

Payment Confirmation

If you do not receive a payment confirmation message from M-Pesa or StarTimes, check your M-Pesa transaction history to confirm the payment. If the payment is not reflected, contact StarTimes customer support for assistance.

Contacting StarTimes Customer Support

If you need further assistance, StarTimes has a dedicated customer support team ready to help.

Phone Support

You can reach StarTimes customer support by calling 2547 19 077 077.

Social Media Support

For quick assistance, you can also reach out to StarTimes via their social media channels:

• Twitter: @StarTimesKenya
• Facebook: StarTimes Kenya

READ ALSO: List of Mobile Banking USSD Codes and Paybills in Kenya 2024

Final Thoughts

Paying for your StarTimes subscription using M-Pesa is quick and convenient, ensuring uninterrupted access to your favorite channels. By following the step-by-step guide in this article, you can easily navigate the payment process and troubleshoot any issues.

With various affordable subscription packages and multiple payment options, StarTimes continues to be a popular choice for pay television services in Kenya. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the wide range of entertainment options on StarTimes, knowing that paying for your subscription is just a few clicks away.