As of 2026, the transition from NHIF to the Social Health Authority (SHA) is complete. For self-employed individuals, freelancers, and those in the informal sector (Jua Kali), the system has moved away from the old flat-rate monthly payments to a more structured, income-based model.
Registration is now a legal requirement for all residents to access both public and private accredited healthcare facilities.
1. Contribution Rates and "Means Testing"
For those without a formal payslip, the SHA uses a Means Testing tool to determine your annual contribution. This digital assessment looks at household characteristics and economic indicators to estimate your ability to pay.
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The Rate: 2.75% of your estimated annual household income.
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The Floor: The minimum contribution is KES 300 per month (KES 3,600 per year).
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The Ceiling: Unlike the old NHIF, there is no maximum cap; higher-earning self-employed individuals pay proportionally more.
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Subsidies: If the means test identifies a household as vulnerable or indigent, the government may provide subsidies to cover the premium.
2. How to Register and Pay
Self-employed Kenyans have multiple digital channels to manage their accounts:
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USSD Code: Dial *147# and follow the prompts to register or check your status.
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Web Portal: Visit the Afya Yangu or SHA portal to complete your profile, add dependents (spouse and children), and undergo means testing.
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M-Pesa Payments: Use Paybill 200222. Use your National ID Number as the account number.
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Lipa Pole Pole: A flexible payment option (sometimes called Lipa Mos Mos) allows you to pay your annual premium in smaller daily, weekly, or monthly installments via the Hustler Fund integration or mobile money.
3. What Your Coverage Includes
By paying into the SHA, you gain access to three distinct funds:
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Primary Healthcare Fund: Covers free treatment at Level 2 (Dispensaries) and Level 3 (Health Centers).
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Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF): Covers outpatient and inpatient services, including surgeries and maternity, at Level 4-6 referral hospitals.
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Emergency, Chronic, and Critical Illness Fund: Provides a safety net for life-threatening emergencies and long-term treatments like cancer or kidney dialysis once standard limits are reached.
Optimize Your Business Compliance
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