In Kenya, obtaining a CRB clearance certificate is a necessary process for those looking to access loans or employment opportunities. Many lenders, including banks, SACCOS, and even some employers, will require you to produce a valid CRB certificate to assess your creditworthiness. This article explains how to get your CRB clearance certificate, the associated costs, and the steps involved.
What is CRB?
CRB stands for Credit Reference Bureau. These are institutions responsible for maintaining records of individuals’ credit history, including loans taken, repayment patterns, and overall creditworthiness. The CRBs gather data from various lenders and agencies to create credit reports, which they use to calculate your credit score.
What is a CRB Clearance Certificate?
A CRB clearance certificate is a document that certifies that an individual has no outstanding or non-performing loans. It is proof that you are in good standing with your creditors.
This certificate is usually required for:
- Loan applications from banks, SACCOs, or mobile lending platforms.
- Employers who want to assess the financial integrity of potential employees.
- Political party nominations if you wish to vie for public office.
- Tender applications for government or private sector contracts.
How to Get a CRB Clearance Certificate in Kenya
The process of obtaining your CRB clearance certificate in Kenya involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get started:
Step 1: Check Your Credit Report
Before requesting a clearance certificate, it’s essential to check your credit status to confirm whether you have any defaults.
You can check your credit report with any of the three licensed CRBs in Kenya:
- Metropol Corporation
- TransUnion Africa
- Creditinfo Kenya
How to Check Your Credit Report:
- Metropol Corporation: Dial *433# on your phone and follow the prompts to register and receive your credit report.
- TransUnion Africa: Text your full name to 21272 or download the TransUnion Nipashe app from the Google Play Store for an instant credit report.
- Creditinfo Kenya: Visit their website at ke.creditinfo.com and follow the registration process to access your report.
Step 2: Pay Any Overdue Arrears
If you have been listed as a defaulter, you need to settle all overdue loan repayments to be delisted. After clearing your arrears, ensure that your lender submits your updated credit information to the CRB. You may need to wait at least 3 days after payment before requesting the clearance certificate.
Step 3: Request for CRB Clearance Certificate
Once your credit status is cleared, you can request the CRB clearance certificate. The process varies depending on the CRB you choose. Here’s how you can request it from the three licensed CRBs in Kenya:
How to Get CRB Clearance Certificate from Different CRBs
1. Metropol Corporation
Steps:
- *Dial 433# on your phone (Safaricom line).
- Register by entering your ID number and the agent number if referred.
- Pay Ksh 100 for registration using Paybill number 220388 and your ID number as the account number.
- Metropol will send you a Crystobol PIN and a link to your free credit report.
- Request the clearance certificate by visiting metropol.co.ke.
- Log in using your Crystobol PIN and select “Clearance Certificate”.
- Pay Ksh 2,200 using Paybill number 220388 and your ID number as the account number.
- Download your clearance certificate after the payment.
Metropol Contacts:
- Calls: 0709 834 000 / 0730 884 000
- Whatsapp: 0707 723 666 / 0791 723 666
2. TransUnion Africa
Steps:
- Text your full names to 21272 from a line registered to you (costs Ksh 19).
- Pay Ksh 50 via Paybill 212121, using your National ID number as the account number.
- Receive a verification code and confirm your registration.
- To get your CRB clearance certificate, download the TransUnion Nipashe app from Google Play Store.
- Log in to the app and request the clearance certificate.
- Enter your email address to receive your encrypted certificate.
- Use your ID number (without the leading zero) as the password to open the certificate.
TransUnion Contacts:
- Phone: 0742258478 / 0768253748 / 0768617074 / 0768262495
3. Creditinfo Kenya
Steps:
- Visit the Creditinfo Kenya website at ke.creditinfo.com.
- Navigate to the “Clearance Certificate” section and choose “Personal” or “Company” certificates.
- Fill out the required forms and follow the steps for processing.
- Submit your payment and download the clearance certificate once ready.
Creditinfo Contacts:
- Phone: +254 709 593000
Important Points About the CRB Clearance Certificate (COC)
- Free for First-Time Applicants: You can get your first CRB clearance certificate for free from all licensed CRBs in Kenya.
- 3-Day Waiting Period: After paying off any overdue loans, wait at least 3 days before requesting the clearance certificate. This allows your lender time to update your credit information.
- Five-Year Delisting: If you have defaulted on a loan, you’ll remain listed for 5 years before being delisted. During this period, you may face difficulties accessing loans.
- Beware of Scams: Be cautious of social media scams that claim to help you delete your name from CRB records. These services often come with hidden fees and are not legitimate.
FAQs
How Do I Get CRB Clearance Online?
You can obtain your CRB clearance certificate online through the Metropol CRB app or website. Alternatively, use TransUnion or Creditinfo Kenya to check your credit status and request the clearance certificate.
How Much Does the CRB Clearance Certificate Cost?
The cost of the CRB clearance certificate varies depending on the CRB you use. On average, it costs Ksh 2,200 for Metropol, while TransUnion and Creditinfo may have slightly different pricing.
How Long Does It Take to Get the CRB Clearance Certificate?
Once all dues are cleared and your lender has updated your credit status, you can request the clearance certificate. It typically takes a few days to process, especially after payments have been made.
Conclusion
Obtaining a CRB clearance certificate is an essential step for accessing loans, employment opportunities, and other services in Kenya. By following the steps outlined above, you can check your credit report, clear any overdue arrears, and request your clearance certificate from one of the three licensed CRBs. Stay vigilant against scams and ensure that all your loan payments are up to date to maintain a good credit standing.
Good luck with your CRB clearance certificate application!