M-Pesa Bulk Payment Service (B2C): Requirements , Application And Transaction charges 2024

Discover how the M-Pesa Bulk Payment Service (B2C) streamlines business payments. Learn about application channels, eligibility requirements, and transparent charges.

Aug 26, 2023 - 08:59
Dec 10, 2023 - 08:58
M-Pesa Bulk Payment Service (B2C): Requirements , Application And Transaction charges 2024
M-Pesa Bulk Payment Service (B2C): Streamlining Payments for Businesses

In the modern era of digital finance, streamlining payment processes has become a top priority for organizations looking to enhance efficiency and customer experience. One revolutionary solution gaining significant traction is the M-Pesa Bulk Payment service, commonly called B2C. This service, offered by Safaricom, presents a seamless way for businesses to disburse payments to individuals swiftly, making it an indispensable tool across various sectors. 

In this article, we will delve into the intricate details of the M-Pesa Bulk Payment service, from its application requirements to its charges, and shed light on how it transforms the landscape of financial transactions.

Key Takeaways from the Article

  1. M-Pesa Bulk Payment (B2C) facilitates the swift disbursement of funds from organizations to individuals' mobile phones.
  2. The application can be made through authorized sales services or a self-onboarding link.
  3. Various sectors benefit from B2C, including microfinance institutions, insurance companies, and NGOs.
  4. M-Pesa G2 system, M-Pesa portal, and APIs are channels for B2C transactions.
  5. Eligibility requirements include identification documents, bank details, and application forms.
  6. Transparent charges apply based on transaction bands.
  7. Deposit methods include RTGS transfers and EFT, cheques, and cash deposits.

M-Pesa Bulk Payment (B2C)

M-Pesa, a pioneering mobile banking service offered by Safaricom, has significantly transformed the financial landscape in Kenya. Among its various offerings, the M-Pesa Bulk Payment service stands out as a powerful tool for organizations seeking to expedite individual payments. Also known as B2C (Business to Customer), this service allows governmental or private institutions to disburse funds from their shortcode directly to recipients' mobile phones in real time. This swift payment mechanism has applications across diverse sectors, including microfinance institutions, insurance companies, businesses, and NGOs.

How To Access the B2C Payment Service?

How To Access the B2C Payment Service?

To access the B2C payment service, visit the following official  portals  from Safaricom for immediate assistance:

  • M-PESA Web portal- Access the M-PESA Portal via- https://org.ke.m-pesa.com
  • M-PESA Enterprise Portal - Access this M-PESA Enterprise Portal via - https://pay.m-pesaforbusiness.co.ke/
  • • APIs: API stands for Application Programming Interface. API enables communication and data exchange between two systems by providing an interface for one system to plug into the other system easily. With API, an organization cannot use our M-PESA system directly. They will continue to use their in-house system to disburse funds through the M-PESA system.

Application Channels for M-Pesa Bulk Payment

Safaricom has streamlined the application process for the M-Pesa Bulk Payment service, offering organizations two convenient ways to apply:

  1. Through Authorized Sales Services: Organizations can partner with authorized individuals who facilitate the application process with Safaricom's permission. These intermediaries ensure a smooth onboarding experience.
  2. Direct Application: Businesses can directly apply for the M-Pesa Bulk Payment service through a self-onboarding link provided by Safaricom. This eliminates the need for intermediaries and simplifies the application process.

Tracking the progress of my application request?

To track the progress of your application request, follow the following procedures:

  1. Log in to the portal – https://selfservice.m-pesaforbusiness.co.ke/LNM/
  2. Click on the “My Applications” tab
  3. and enter the mobile number used at registration. 
  4. Only the applicant can view the status of the application.

You will then be prompted with the following:

  • Processing: The application request has been submitted successfully.
  • Rejected: The application request has been rejected, and the reason(s) is indicated.
  • Approved: All documentation provided has been reviewed successfully, and the B2C account is being processed.
  • Complete: The B2C number is active, details are sent to the applicant, and payments can now be made to customers.

Key Sectors Leveraging M-Pesa Bulk Payment

The versatility of the M-Pesa Bulk Payment service shines through in its application across various sectors, including:

  • SACCOs and Microfinance Institutions: Swift disbursement of cash withdrawals and loan payouts directly to individuals' M-Pesa accounts.
  • Insurance Claims: Expedited settlement of insurance claims, ensuring policyholders receive their due funds promptly.
  • Business Payments: Effortless payment of casual workers, daily wages, and small purchases, enhancing operational efficiency.
  • Promotional Payments: Facilitation of cash prizes and incentives, fostering customer engagement and loyalty.
  • Dividend Payments: Streamlined distribution of annual dividends to shareholders of publicly listed companies.
  • NGOs and Relief Funds: Efficient disbursement of funds for workshops, per diems, relief efforts, and development projects.

Channels for Transaction Processing

B2C transactions are facilitated through multiple channels to cater to diverse organizational needs:

  1. Mpesa G2 System: This channel requires the installation of the Mpesa certificate on a Windows computer. Organizations facing challenges with the installation process can seek assistance by contacting Safaricom's support team.
  2. M-Pesa Portal: Designed as a web-based platform, the M-Pesa portal allows payments without needing certificate installation, offering a convenient alternative.
  3. Application Programming Interface (APIs): APIs enable seamless information flow between systems, allowing businesses to integrate their on-premise programs with M-Pesa for fund disbursement.

Requirements for Accessing Bulk Payment Service

The eligibility criteria for accessing the M-Pesa Bulk Payment service vary based on the nature of the organization. However, common prerequisites include:

  • Identification Documents: Documents of proprietors, directors, and individuals responsible for opening the account.
  • Bank Details: Bank letter or canceled cheque to verify bank information.
  • Registration Documents: Certificate of Registration copy for NGOs or Company Registration for businesses.
  • Application Form: Completed and signed application form along with agreed terms and conditions.
  • KRA PIN: Company's or proprietor's KRA PIN for tax compliance.
  • Board Resolution: Company's sealed resolution by the board on letterhead with signatures of directors.
  • Utility Bill: Copy of utility bill as proof of address.
  • Financial Statements: Audited statements of financial position.
  • Industry-Specific Requirements: Additional documents based on the sector, such as a Ministry of Education license for private schools or SAFARICOM AML/KYC completion for SACCOS.

M-Pesa B2C Charges

Transparent pricing is crucial in any financial service, and the M-Pesa Bulk Payment service is no exception. The charges for this service are structured as follows:

M-PESA B2C PAYMENTS TO REGISTERED USERS M-PESA B2C PAYMENTS TO UNREGISTERED USERS
Min Max Customer Business
Business Business B2C Total Charge
1 49 0 0
50 100 0 0
101 500 0 5
501 1000 0 5
1001 1500 0 5
1501 2500 0 9
2501 3500 0 9
3501 5000 0 9
5001 7500 0 11
7501 10000 0 11
10001 15000 0 11
15001 20000 0 11
20001 25000 0 13
25001 30000 0 13
30001 35000 0 13
35001 40000 0 13
40001 45000 0 13
45001 50000 0 13
50001 70000 0 13
70001 150000 0 13

It's important to note that the recipient of the funds will not incur any charges. Additionally, businesses can execute payments to numbers outside the Safaricom network without incurring additional fees beyond the defined tariff.

Depositing Funds for Payments

To initiate payments through the M-Pesa Bulk Payment service, businesses can deposit funds into their M-Pesa corporate account through various methods:

  • RTGS Transfer: Businesses can transfer funds via RTGS to their M-Pesa corporate account at designated banks (KCB and CBA). The B2C shortcode must be included in the transaction details.
  • EFT, Cheque, and Cash Deposits: These deposits can be made to the Mpesa holding account, with specific account numbers for CBA Bank (0420448007) and KCB Bank (1147921954). It's imperative to quote the B2C shortcode during the deposit process.

For organization 

An organization can transfer an RTGS to the M-PESA holding account at NCBA, Co-operative Bank, Equity Bank, and KCB banks, quoting their B2C short code preceded by 333 as the beneficiary account number. E.g., If the customer’s shortcode is 123456, the beneficiary account number is 333123456. EFT and Cheque deposits can be made to the same M-PESA holding account using the A/C number.

 Account Name

MPESA Holding

MPESA Holding Co. Limited

M-PESA Holding Co. Limited

M-PESA Holding Co. Limited

Bank Name        

NCBA

Kenya Commercial Bank

 Co-operative Bank

Equity Bank

Branch Name

Upper hill

Moi Avenue

Stima Plaza

Equity Centre

Account Currency

KES

KES

KES

KES

SWFT CODE

CBAFKENX

KCBLKENX

KCOOKENA

EQBLKENAXXX

Account NO.

333+B2C short code e.g., If the customer’s shortcode is 123456, the beneficiary account number is 333123456.

Contacts

For any customer queries

  • Contact the account manager.
  • Call: 0722 002222 from the contact number authorized to call the service line.
  • Email: M-PESABusiness@Safaricom.co.ke
  • Facebook: Safaricom PLC
  • Twitter: @SafaricomPLC
  • Call: 100 (prepay) and 200 (post-pay)

READ ALSO: New M-Pesa Paybill Charges: Everything You Need to Know About M-Pesa Paybill Rates

Conclusion

The M-Pesa Bulk Payment service (B2C) has emerged as a transformative force in financial transactions. By allowing organizations to disburse payments swiftly and efficiently, it has streamlined operations across sectors, from microfinance institutions to NGOs. Through the B2C service, businesses can access multiple channels for transaction processing, catering to diverse needs. However, eligibility requirements must be met, and charges should be understood before starting the B2C journey in a world where the speed, security, and accuracy of payments matter, the M-Pesa Bulk Payment service has proven to be a game-changer, redefining how businesses interact with their stakeholders.

Joseph Richard Joseph Richard, a leading contributor to sledge.co.ke, uses his decade-long expertise in finance, business, and technology to offer clear, reliable guides and analyses. His work aids Kenyans in making informed financial and business decisions, earning him a reputation as a trusted industry authority.