Steps to Register a Short-Term Emergency M-PESA Paybill

M-PESA PayBills, for short-term use, are especially helpful in emergencies, such as fundraising for medical bills, funerals, weddings, education expenses, or charity/catastrophe support.

However, many Safaricom users may not be aware of how to register and apply for a short-term Paybill number when the need arises.

This article explains how you can register and apply for a short-term M-PESA Paybill.

Requirements for a Short-Term M-PESA Paybill

Before applying, it is important to understand the difference between a regular Paybill and a short-term Paybill.

A regular, long-term Paybill is designed for continuous use over several years and is typically issued to businesses, institutions, and government entities.

Applicants for this type of Paybill must provide valid business registration documents or licenses during the application process.

Also Read: How to Send Money to Multiple People at Once Via M-PESA

On the other hand, a short-term Paybill is meant for temporary use, lasting up to six months, and is created to support a specific project or need.

Unlike the long-term option, it does not require a business registration license. Instead, the applicant must submit official documents that verify the authenticity of the project for which the Paybill is being requested.

Documents Required

1. A completed and signed short-term Paybill application form (provided by Safaricom).
2. A certified copy of your National ID or Passport.
3. A letter from your bank or a canceled cheque showing your bank account details.
4. A registered Safaricom mobile line to receive notifications and manage the account.
5. Supporting documents explaining the purpose of the Paybill, such as:

Fundraising: A covering letter from a committee or applicant justifying the need for funds (e.g., weddings, funerals, or school fees).

Other Projects: Official documentation proving the legitimacy of projects requiring short-term funding.

     6. A signed copy of Safaricom’s terms and conditions.

How to Apply for a Short-Term M-PESA Paybill

1. Visit the Lipa Na M-PESA Application Portal.
2. Select “Short-Term Paybill” from the available options.
3. Click “Apply Now”. Safaricom provides five categories you can apply for including: Medical Fund, Education Fund, Wedding Fund, Charity/Catastrophe Fund and Funeral Fund
4. Fill in all the required details on the online application form.
5. Gather and upload the required documents, which may include:

• Duly filled and signed application form.
• Signed terms and conditions.
• Certified copy of your ID, Passport, Alien, or Military card.
• For medical funds: a certified supporting document from the hospital or doctor.
• For minors, parents/guardians must apply and provide a copy of the child’s birth certificate.
• A bank letter with account details or a canceled cheque.
• A registered Safaricom line for receiving funds.

     6. Submit the documents online. 

Processing takes about 24 hours, after which your Paybill will be activated.

How to Withdraw Funds from a Short-Term Paybill

1. Dial *234*4# from the nominated M-PESA number provided during application.
2. Select “Withdraw Cash.”
3. Choose “To the Bank” and enter the Paybill number.

Also Read: How to Qualify for a KCB M-PESA Loan and Increase Your Limit

Funds can only be withdrawn to the bank account provided during the application process.

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