How to get CRB clearance certificate TransUnion Kenya
Getting a CRB clearance certificate in Kenya is a vital step whether you are applying for a government job, seeking a bank loan, or simply want to verify your financial health. TransUnion (CRB Africa) is one of the three licensed credit reference bureaus in the country authorized to issue these documents.
Below is a precise, step-by-step guide on how to get your certificate via TransUnion’s Nipashe service, updated for 2026.
How to Get a CRB Clearance Certificate from TransUnion Kenya (2026 Guide)
Step 1: Register for the TransUnion Nipashe Service
Before you can request a clearance certificate, you must be in the TransUnion database.
- Option A (SMS): Send a text with your Full Name to 21272.
- Option B (Mobile App): Download the TransUnion Nipashe App from the Google Play Store.
- Registration Fee: You will be prompted to pay a one-time fee of KSh 50.
- Paybill: 212121
- Account Number: Your National ID Number.
Step 2: Check Your Credit Status
Once registered, it is wise to check your status before paying for a certificate. If you have a “Default” status (negative listing), TransUnion will issue a Credit Status Certificate (listing your debts) rather than a Clearance Certificate. You can check your status via the Nipashe App or the SMS shortcode.
Step 3: Pay for the Clearance Certificate
While your first-ever clearance certificate is typically issued free of charge (per Kenyan regulation), subsequent certificates or specific processing requests carry a fee.
- Certificate Fee: KSh 2,200.
- Payment Method: Use M-Pesa Paybill 212121.
- Account Number: Your National ID Number.
Step 4: Submission and Documentation
To finalize the application, you must provide proof of payment and verify your identity.
- Proof of Payment: Forward your M-Pesa confirmation message to cert@transunion.co.ke.
- Identity Verification: Send a clear, scanned copy of your National ID and your KRA PIN Certificate to info@transunion.com.
Step 5: Receiving Your CRB Clearance Certificate
After the TransUnion team verifies your records and payment:
- The CRB Clearance Certificate (or Credit Status Certificate if you have defaults) will be processed and sent to your registered email address.
- Processing typically takes between 24 to 48 hours during business days.
TransUnion CRB Charges: Registration and Certificate Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Registration | KSh 50 |
| First Certificate | Free |
| Subsequent Certificates | KSh 2,200 |
| Nipashe SMS Charges | ~KSh 19 per SMS |
Why you might get a “Status” instead of “Clearance”
If you have an outstanding balance with a digital lender, bank, or SACCO, you are considered “Blacklisted.” To get a full Clearance Certificate, you must first clear the outstanding debt with the specific lender and wait for them to update your records with the CRB.
If you encounter any delays, you can reach out directly via the TransUnion Kenya Contact Page for manual intervention.
Ensure your email address is active and check your spam folder if you don’t receive the document within two business days.
