Your M-Pesa balance just hit zero. The rent is due and the rent agent is calling your phone every five seconds.
Learning how to Fuliza can save you from these awkward moments. It is Safaricom’s overdraft service that lets you borrow money instantly when your M-Pesa runs dry. No paperwork, no waiting around.
Here’s how it works and how to avoid the common mistakes that’ll cost you extra.
What is Fuliza?
Fuliza is basically a loan that kicks in automatically when you don’t have enough M-Pesa for a transaction. Say you need 500 bob but only have 200. Fuliza covers the missing 300 instantly.
Here’s how it works:
- You opt in to Fuliza once
- Safaricom gives you a daily limit
- If your M-Pesa balance isn’t enough, Fuliza covers the difference
- You repay automatically when money hits your M-Pesa
So if you’re stuck in a queue or buying lunch and you’re Ksh 200 short, Fuliza sorts you out.
Fuliza Opt in Using USSD
This is the fastest way to get started—no apps needed.
Steps:
- Dial
*334# - Select Fuliza M-PESA
- Tap Opt in
- Accept the terms
- Boom—you’re good to go
This might help: You must be an active M-Pesa user. If your line isn’t M-Pesa-enabled, Fuliza won’t work.
Fuliza Opt In on the M-Pesa App
If you prefer apps, this is the smoothest route. It also helps you track your limit and fees.
Steps:
- Download the M-Pesa App for Android or iOS
- Log in with your Safaricom number
- Tap the Grow section
- Select Fuliza and opt in
- You’ll see your Fuliza limit right away
Why it matters: If you’re trying to learn how to Fuliza without digging through USSD menus, the app makes it easy.
How to Fuliza
After fuliza opt in, it works automatically. No extra steps needed.
Here’s what happens:
- You owe Safaricom 600 plus fees
- You try to send 1000 bob but only have 400
- Fuliza covers the missing 600
- Your transaction goes through
When Fuliza Makes Sense
Fuliza works great for:
- Emergency transport when you’re stranded
- Urgent bills that can’t wait
- Business payments that need to happen now
- Medical emergencies
It’s not great for:
- Buying things you don’t really need
- Covering expenses you can’t afford to pay back
- Regular monthly expenses (budget better instead)
Fuliza vs Other Loan Options
Fuliza pros:
- Instant approval
- No paperwork
- Automatic repayment
- Works with any M-Pesa transaction
Fuliza cons:
- Higher fees than some alternatives
- Easy to overspend
- Reduces your available M-Pesa limit
Alternatives to consider:
- KCB M-Pesa (lower fees, longer repayment)
- Tala or Branch (bigger loans, more time to pay)
- Asking family or friends (free, but awkward)
Sure! Here’s the updated version of the article with a new section on how to opt out of Fuliza, along with a contextual link to the related guide:
What If You Want to Opt Out of Fuliza?
Maybe you’re done using Fuliza. Maybe the daily fees are too much. Or you just want a clean M-Pesa balance. Whatever your reason, opting out is easy.
Here’s how it works:
- Dial
*334# - Select Fuliza M-PESA
- Choose Opt out
- Confirm and you’re done
You can also opt out via the M-Pesa App or SIM Toolkit using the same steps.
This might help: You’ll need to clear any outstanding Fuliza balance first. Safaricom won’t let you opt out if you still owe them.
For full details, screenshots, and common issues, check out our full guide:
👉 How to Opt Out of Fuliza
Why Knowing How to Fuliza Helps
Learning how to Fuliza is about staying ready. Whether you’re topping up, paying a bill, or sending someone fare, you’ll finish the transaction—even if you’re a few shillings short.
Just don’t overdo it. Treat Fuliza like a temporary fix, not your go-to wallet.
If someone asks you how to Fuliza, now you know. It’s easy, fast, and useful when you’re short—but just like any loan, it needs paying back. So use it smart.
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