How to Pay SHA Contributions in Kenya: Step-by-Step Guide for 2026
Paying your SHA contributions in Kenya is not just a legal requirement—it’s a critical step toward securing universal health coverage under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023. Whether you are a salaried employee, self-employed, or part of the informal sector, understanding how to pay SHA contributions ensures you and your family have access to quality healthcare without unexpected financial burdens.
1. What Are SHA Contributions?
The Social Health Authority (SHA) was established under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, replacing the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) with a universal health coverage model. All residents are required to pay Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) contributions.
Contributions are made via payroll deductions for employed persons or direct payments for self-employed and informal sector households.
2. Who Must Pay SHA Contributions?
- Salaried employees: Employers deduct and remit contributions.
- Self-employed & informal workers: Pay directly.
- Households without salaried income: Contribute based on means testing.
All payments are mandatory under the law.
3. SHA Contribution Rates
| Contributor | Rate | Minimum Payment (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Employees | 2.75% of gross salary | 300 |
| Self-employed / Informal sector | 2.75% of household income | 300 |
There is no maximum cap; contributions scale with income.
4. How to Pay SHA Contributions in Kenya
a. Pay SHA Contributions via M-PESA
M-PESA Paybill is the most common method for individuals and informal contributors.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Paybill number | 200222 |
| Account number | Your National ID number |
Steps:
- Open the M-PESA menu on your mobile phone.
- Select Lipa na M-PESA → PayBill.
- Enter the Paybill number: 200222.
- Use your National ID as the account number.
- Enter the amount and confirm with your M-PESA PIN.
- You will receive an SMS confirmation.
b. Paying Through Employer Payroll
- Employers deduct 2.75% of gross pay monthly.
- Remit to SHA by the 9th of each month.
- Automatic credit to employee SHIF account.
c. Bank & eCitizen Options
Additional payment methods may include:
- Direct bank transfers to authorized SHA accounts.
- Online portal/eCitizen payments for self-filers.
5. Deadlines & Penalties
- Deadlines: Salaried contributions due by 9th of following month. Individuals should pay monthly.
- Penalties: Late payments incur 2% penalty per month.
6. Proof of Payment & Tracking
- Keep SMS or receipt from M-PESA.
- Employers maintain payroll remittance records.
- Verify contributions via SHA online services.
Related Guides:
How to Register for SHA in Kenya
How to Check SHA Status
7. People Also Ask
How do I pay SHA contributions via M-PESA?
Use Paybill 200222 and your National ID.
When are SHA contributions due?
Employers must submit by 9th of each month.
What happens if I pay late?
2% penalty monthly.
Can self-employed persons pay monthly?
Yes, via mobile or bank.
Do I need to carry my old NHIF card to the hospital?
You do not need the old card. Upon successful registration, you will use your National ID for identification to access services at designated healthcare facilities.
Do I need to register afresh if I was already an NHIF member?
All Kenyan citizens, residents, and refugees must register afresh for SHA, as it is a new legal requirement and not an automatic transfer from NHIF
