M-PESA Short-Term Paybill- Application Form, Benefits, Requirements, and How to Apply

Learn about M-PESA Short-Term Paybill and its convenient platform for time-sensitive fundraising projects in Kenya.

Joseph Richard

Aug 27, 2023 - 17:25

M-PESA Short-Term Paybill- Application Form, Benefits, Requirements, and How to Apply

Innovation has brought about convenient and efficient transaction methods in our country, Kenya. M-PESA, launched in 2007, has been a game-changer in Kenya's banking system, revolutionizing how money is transferred and collected. One of its valuable services is the M-PESA Short-Term Paybill, which has become popular among individuals, companies, and organizations for fundraising purposes. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of the M-PESA Short-Term Paybill, from the application process to its benefits and requirements.

Key Takeaways from the Article

M-PESA Short-Term Paybill caters to time-sensitive projects lasting a maximum of 6 months.
It offers a convenient platform for fundraising for personal events, medical bills, school fees, and more.
The application process is streamlined through an online portal.
Specific documents are required based on the category of the project.
The efficient processing system ensures approval within 24 hours.
Funds can be readily withdrawn and checked through the provided shortcodes.

What Sets Apart Paybill and Short-Term Paybill?

Before delving into the specifics of the Short-Term Paybill, let's understand the distinction between a standard Paybill and its short-term counterpart. The Paybill is designed for long-term use by businesses, institutions, and government entities. A valid registration document or license is required for application and remains active for several years.

On the other hand, the Short-Term Paybill caters to time-sensitive projects lasting a maximum of 6 months. These projects range from personal events like weddings and charity fundraisers to urgent needs such as medical bills or school fees. Notably, no business registration license is necessary for a Short-Term Paybill application, but authentic documentation related to the project is required.

Essential Documents for Application

When applying for a Short-Term Paybill, you must provide specific documents tailored to the type of paybill you need. For instance, a medical project will demand different documentation than a wedding-related pay bill. Safaricom has streamlined this process through an online portal that outlines the documents required for each category. Whether it's a medical, educational, funeral, wedding, charity, or catastrophe project, the portal ensures you understand what's needed before proceeding with your application.

Purpose	Required Documents (Certified copies)
Medical Fund	1) Duly filled and signed Short term pay bill Application form stating purpose and duration. , 2) Signed Terms and Conditions , 3) Certified ID and PIN Certificate of the applicant , 4) Certified supporting documents from the Hospital / Doctor treating the patient which should confirm the need for the collection e.g. reference to an operation/required treatment (on the institution’s letter head, stamped and signed by authorized personnel) , 5) If applying on behalf of the beneficiary; a. If a minor: the parents/guardian of the child should apply and the child’s birth certificate should be attached to the rest of the documents as listed above. b. If the person is incapacitated: certified copies of IDs & PIN Certificates for both parties will be required
Educational Fund	1) Duly filled and signed Short term pay bill Application form stating purpose and duration. , 2) Signed Terms and Conditions , 3) Certified ID and PIN Certificate of the applicant , 4) Certified supporting documents from the Education Institution stating the need for an education fund (on the institution’s letter head, stamped and signed by authorized personnel) , 5) If applying on behalf of the beneficiary; a. If a minor: the parents/guardian of the child should apply and the child’s birth certificate
Funeral	1) Duly filled and signed Short-term pay bill Application form stating purpose and duration. , 2) Signed Terms and Conditions , 3) Certified ID and PIN Certificate of the applicant , 4) Certified Notice of Death , 5) Proof of Kin , 6) Certified copy of ID of the Next-of-Kin (certified by an advocate)
Wedding	1) Duly filled and signed Short term pay bill Application form stating purpose and duration. , 2) Signed Terms and Conditions , 3) Certified ID and PIN Certificate of the applicant , 4) Letter from institution that is to wed the couple , 5) Clearance letter from AG’s office (Registrar of Marriages) , 6) Certified copies of ID & PIN Certificate for the couple (certified by an advocate)
Charity or Catastrophe (e.g. Fire / drought)	1) Duly filled and signed Short-term pay bill Application form stating purpose and duration. , 2) An official letter written by the committee members and signed by at least two committee members. , 3) A letter from the bank showing that an account has been set up for the intended purpose, as specified in the letter.
Church Fund Raising	1) Duly filled and signed Short-term pay bill Application form stating purpose and duration. , 2) An official letter from the Church authorizing the fund raising and also listing the committee members/elders of the church. At least two committee members should sign the letter. , 3) Any other official document from the church.
School Fund Raising	1) Duly filled and signed Short term pay bill Application form stating purpose and duration. , 2) An official letter from the School authorizing the fund raising and listing the committee members. The letter should be signed by at least two committee members. , 3) A letter from either the Board of Governors (BOG) or Parents Teachers Association (PTA) authorizing the fund raising. , 4) Any other official document from the school.

Navigating the Application Process

Applying for a Short-Term Paybill is hassle-free, thanks to Safaricom's user-friendly online portal. To initiate the process, visit the M-PESA for Business portal and select the "Short-Term Paybill" option. Choose the appropriate category that aligns with your project: medical, education, funeral, wedding, charity, or catastrophe.

With the necessary documents, click "Apply" and complete the provided form with accurate details. Be sure to read and accept the terms and conditions carefully. A verification process will then ensure the accuracy of your information. Next, upload the required attachments to substantiate your application.

After these steps, you'll have completed the application. Safaricom's efficient processing system ensures that within 24 hours, your Short-Term Paybill will be reviewed and processed, making it a swift and convenient solution for your urgent financial needs.

Reaping the Benefits

The benefits of the M-PESA Short-Term Paybill are multifaceted. Its convenience and efficiency are unmatched, providing a platform for raising funds for time-sensitive projects. Safaricom's commitment to rapid processing means you will avoid unnecessary delays when you need funds urgently.

How to Check Progress and Balances

Curious about the status of your application? Log in to the portal at https://m-pesaforbusiness.co.ke/ and navigate to the "My Applications" tab. Please note that only the applicant can view the application's status.

Application statuses vary, and here's what they signify:

Pending: Your application request has been successfully submitted for processing by the Lipa Na M-PESA team.
Rejected: Your application request has been turned down, with clear reasons stated.
Approved: Your submitted documentation has been meticulously reviewed, and the business is undergoing processing.
Complete: Congratulations! Your M-PESA Business till number is active, and you'll receive details to facilitate payments against the provided Paybill Business Number.

To monitor your Short-Term Paybill balance, dial 2344# from the registered mobile number you provided during the application. From there, follow the prompts to select "Check Balance" and enter your Paybill number. Within moments, you'll receive a message containing your current balance.

Rapid Short-Term Paybill Number Issuance

Efficiency matters, and M-PESA ensures that your Short-Term Paybill is processed within 24 hours after you've submitted all required documentation via the online portal https://m-pesaforbusiness.co.ke/.

Checking Paybill Balance and Withdrawing Funds

Monitoring your Paybill balance is straightforward. Dial 2344# from the registered mobile number specified during the application request. This registered number should be an M-PESA-authorized number for fund withdrawal. Follow these steps:

Select "My Account Services."
Opt for "Check Balance."
Choose the "Business/Store number" and enter the Paybill number.
Receive a message displaying your current Paybill balance.

For fund withdrawal from the Short-Term Paybill, dial 2344# from the authorized mobile number and follow these steps:

Choose "Withdraw Cash."
Opt for "To the Bank" and enter the Paybill number.

Remember, you can only withdraw funds to the bank account provided during the application process.

Assistance and Support

In case of any queries, Safaricom's customer support is readily available. Reach out through various channels, including:

Email: [email protected]
Call: 100 (Prepaid) or 200 (Postpaid)
Visit Safaricom Retail shops nationwide
Twitter: @Safaricom_Care or @SafaricomPLC
Facebook: Safaricom PLC
Safaricom website: www.safaricom.co.ke

Conclusion

The M-PESA Short-Term Paybill is a testament to Safaricom's commitment to providing innovative and efficient financial solutions. With a seamless application process, tailored documentation requirements, and rapid processing times, it's a valuable tool for individuals, companies, and organizations with urgent financial needs. Safaricom's dedication to user-friendly interfaces and transparent processes ensures that the benefits of the Short-Term Paybill are accessible to a wide range of users.

FAQs About the M-PESA Short-Term Paybill

What is the difference between Paybill and Short-Term Paybill?

Paybill is for long-term use by businesses, while Short-Term Paybill is for projects lasting 6 months, such as weddings or medical bills.

What documents are required for a Short-Term Paybill application?

Specific documents depend on the project type; Safaricom's online portal provides a required document breakdown.

How long does it take to get a Short-Term Paybill number?

Safaricom ensures processing and issuance of the number within 24 hours after submission of required documents.

Can I withdraw funds from a Short-Term Paybill?

You can withdraw funds using the 2344# shortcode, provided you use the bank account registered during the application.

Are there charges for registering a Short-Term Paybill?

Registration is free; charges apply only when making payments to the pay bill.

How can I check my Short-Term Paybill balance?

Dial 2344# from your nominated mobile number, then follow the prompts to check your balance.

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Joseph Richard Joseph is a graduate of Mathematics and Computer Science (Applied Option). With expertise in Technology and Finance, he brings his knowledge to the field, demonstrating an authoritative understanding of these interrelated areas. Joseph is pursuing a Master's in Software Engineering, further expanding his skill set.