To check your SHA status is a top priority for most Kenyans right now due to the transition from NHIF to the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Checking your Social Health Authority (SHA) status is necessary primarily to ensure uninterrupted access to medical services under the new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) in Kenya. Since the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) is mandatory, verifying your status helps confirm that your registration is complete, your contributions are up to date, and you can access benefits without, or with minimal, out-of-pocket costs.

Why checking your SHA status is essential:

• Ensures Active Coverage for Treatment: A “Pending” or “Not Found” status means you may not be able to access services. Checking ensures your account is active (fully registered and paid) so you can receive care, including inpatient and outpatient services.
• Verifies Contribution Accuracy: For both formal (2.75% of salary) and informal sector members, checking allows you to confirm that your contributions are credited correctly.
• Confirms Eligibility for Specific Benefits: To access specialized services—such as C-sections, cancer care, or dialysis—your account must be active and contributions up to date.
• Allows for Timely Problem Resolution: If your status is incorrect (e.g., dependents missing or incorrect linked facility), checking early allows you to visit a Huduma Centre or use the self-service portal to fix issues before an emergency arises.
• Avoids Penalties: Regular check-ups help ensure you remain compliant with SHIF regulations, avoiding potential penalties.
• Confirms Transition from NHIF: While NHIF members are supposed to transition automatically, many have faced issues. Checking your SHA status verifies that your old records have been properly moved to the new system.

How to Check Your  SHA Status via SMS

As of 2026, the old NHIF code (*155#) has been integrated into the new SHA system. You can check your registration status, contribution balance, and dependents using your phone.

Method 1: check SHA status using SHA USSD Code (Fastest)

1. Dial *147# on your mobile phone (Works on Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom).
2. Select Option 1: Check Registration Status.
3. Enter your National ID Number.
4. You will receive an SMS confirming if you are successfully transitioned to SHA and your current benefit status.

Method 2: Check SHA Status  via SMS (The “ID” Method)

1. Open your Messages app and compose a new SMS.
2. Type ID [Space] Your ID Number (e.g., ID 12345678).
3. Send the message to 21555.
4. Note: This service costs KSh 10 in airtime. You will receive a detailed mini-statement showing your last contribution and any arrears.

Method 3: Using the SHA Web Portal

• Visit sha.go.ke.
• Login with your ID and the PIN you created during registration.
• Your dashboard will display your Member Status (Active/Inactive) and your listed Dependents.

NOTE: If you haven’t transitioned, you should use the *147# code to register first, otherwise, the SMS check will return a “User Not Found” error.

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