I’ve been trying to pay for different online services in Kenya, and almost all of them accept M-Pesa. However, I noticed there are different payment options like Paybill, Till number, and direct phone transfer, which can be confusing if you don’t know which one to use.
If you’re unsure how to pay online using M-Pesa, here’s a simple guide that explains all the methods step by step.
Quick Answer
You can pay for online services in Kenya using M-Pesa Paybill, Till number (Buy Goods), or Send Money, depending on what the business provides.
Method 1: How to Pay Using M-Pesa Paybill
Step 1: Open M-Pesa Menu
Go to your M-Pesa menu on your phone.
Step 2: Select Lipa na M-Pesa
Choose “Lipa na M-Pesa”.
Step 3: Select Paybill
Tap on Paybill option.
Step 4: Enter Business Number
Input the Paybill number provided by the service.
Step 5: Enter Account Number
Use the account number given (e.g., order number, ID, or phone number).
Step 6: Enter Amount
Input the payment amount.
Step 7: Enter PIN and Confirm
Enter your PIN and complete the transaction.
Step 8: Receive Confirmation
You will get an SMS confirming payment.
Method 2: How to Pay Using Till Number (Buy Goods and Services)
Step 1: Open M-Pesa Menu
Select “Lipa na M-Pesa”.
Step 2: Choose Buy Goods and Services
Tap this option.
Step 3: Enter Till Number
Input the business till number.
Step 4: Enter Amount
Key in the amount to pay.
Step 5: Enter PIN and Confirm
Enter your PIN and confirm payment.
Step 6: Receive Confirmation
You’ll get an SMS instantly.
Method 3: How to Pay via Send Money (Phone Number)
Step 1: Open M-Pesa Menu
Select “Send Money”.
Step 2: Enter Phone Number
Input the seller’s number.
Step 3: Enter Amount
Key in the amount.
Step 4: Enter PIN and Confirm
Confirm the payment.
Step 5: Receive Confirmation
You will receive a confirmation message.
When to Use Each Payment Method
- Paybill → For companies, bills, subscriptions, and official payments
- Till Number → For shops, online stores, and businesses
- Send Money → For individuals or small sellers
Extra Tips and Best Practices
- Always confirm the business name before sending money
- Double-check Paybill, Till, or phone number
- Keep your confirmation SMS
- Use Paybill for official services
- Avoid sharing your PIN with anyone
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Entering wrong account number
- Sending money to wrong Till or Paybill
- Using Send Money instead of Paybill for official services
- Ignoring confirmation message
- Rushing transactions without verifying details
FAQ
What is the safest way to pay online in Kenya via M-Pesa?
Paybill is usually the safest for official businesses.
Is there a fee for using Till number?
Typically, customers are not charged when using Buy Goods (Till).
Can I reverse a wrong M-Pesa payment?
Yes, but you must act quickly and contact Safaricom.
Conclusion
Paying for online services in Kenya using M-Pesa is simple once you understand the different options. Just choose the right method, confirm details carefully, and complete your payment securely.
