So you need to register for SHIF (Social Health Insurance Fund). Good news – it’s actually pretty straightforward. Bad news – there are a few ways to mess it up if you’re not paying attention.

SHIF replaced NHIF, and honestly, how to register for SHIF is way simpler now. Here’s everything you need to know.

TL;DR

Three ways to register for SHIF:

  • USSD: Dial *147# (easiest)
  • Online: Visit sha.go.ke (most detailed)
  • In person: Go to SHA offices (safest if you’re confused)

You’ll need your ID number and phone number. That’s it. Takes about 10 minutes max.

What You Need Before Starting

Before you even think about registering, grab these:

  • Your national ID number
  • A phone number you actually use
  • If registering family members, their ID numbers too
  • Birth certificates for kids under 18

And that’s why it matters – having everything ready saves you from that annoying “halfway through and missing documents” situation.

*Method 1: USSD Registration (147#)

This is probably your best bet when you want to register for SHIF quickly. Works on any phone, no internet needed.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Dial *147# from your phone
  2. Select your ID type (Kenyan ID, passport, etc.)
  3. Enter your national ID number when prompted
  4. Type in your first name
  5. Confirm your phone number
  6. Accept the terms and conditions
  7. Add family members if needed
  8. Wait for confirmation SMS

Common pitfall: Don’t rush through the terms and conditions. Actually read what you’re agreeing to.

The whole thing takes maybe 5 minutes. You’ll get a confirmation message when it’s done.

Method 2: Online Registration

If you prefer doing things on your computer or want more control over how to register for SHIF, go online.

Steps:

  1. Go to https://sha.go.ke/
  2. Click “Register Individual”
  3. Create an account with your email and phone number
  4. Check your phone for verification code
  5. Enter the code to verify
  6. Fill in your personal details
  7. Upload a photo of your Kenyan ID (optional but recommended)
  8. Add dependents if you have any
  9. Submit and wait for confirmation

This might help if you’re registering multiple family members at once. The online form lets you see everything clearly before submitting.

Watch out for: Make sure you’re on the real SHA website. There are fake sites floating around trying to collect your information.

Method 3: Assisted Registration (In Person)

Not comfortable with how to register for SHIF online or via USSD? No problem.

Here’s what happened – SHA set up registration points across the country. You can find them at:

What to bring:

  • Original national ID
  • Copy of your ID
  • Birth certificates for kids
  • Marriage certificate (if registering spouse)

The staff will walk you through everything. This takes longer but you get help if something goes wrong.

Registering Your Family

You can register your spouse and kids (under 18) as dependents.

For your spouse, you’ll need:

  • Their ID number
  • Marriage certificate
  • Their consent (they need to be there or give written permission)

For kids:

  • Birth certificates
  • Their ID numbers (if they have IDs)
  • Proof you’re the parent/guardian

What Happens After Registration

You’ll get a confirmation SMS within 24 hours. If you don’t get it, something went wrong.

Your SHIF number will be sent to you. Keep this safe – you’ll need it every time you visit a hospital.

No physical card for now. Everything is digital.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Wrong phone number: Use a number you actually check. All updates come via SMS.
  • Typos in ID number: Double-check this. One wrong digit and you’re stuck.
  • Forgetting to add family: You can add them later, but it’s easier to do it all at once.
  • Using fake websites: Only use sha.go.ke. Ignore other sites asking for your details.
  • Not keeping records: Screenshot your confirmation or save the SMS.

Troubleshooting

“Invalid ID number”: Make sure you’re entering it exactly as it appears on your ID. No spaces, no dashes.

“Phone number already registered”: Someone might have used your number by mistake. Call SHA customer care at 0711 044 000.

No confirmation SMS: Check your phone has airtime and network coverage. Wait 24 hours, then try again.

Can’t access the website: Try a different browser or clear your cache. Government websites can be finicky.

What It Costs

Registration is completely free. If anyone asks you to pay, walk away.

The actual SHIF contributions will be deducted from your salary if you’re employed, or you’ll pay directly if you’re self-employed. But registering costs nothing.

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