When loss strikes, families often scramble to figure out what happens to your M-PESA when you die, especially when the deceased had money in their mobile wallet. Many Kenyans assume the balance vanishes, or worse, that loved ones can simply withdraw it. But the reality is more structured and far more important to understand.
Understanding What Happens to Your M-PESA When You Die
Most people leave behind mobile money without ever planning for it. Yet what happens to your M-PESA when you die is governed by clear procedures meant to protect both the estate and the rightful heirs.
Safaricom says the process begins with one simple step: the family must notify the company of the death.
According to Safaricom Retail Operations Lead, Selline Akoth, the next of kin or a family representative writes a formal letter stating their relationship to the deceased, then Safaricom guides them based on how much money is in the account.
How Safaricom Handles Claims Based on Amounts in the Account
To make the process fair, Safaricom uses three tiers:
- Between Sh1 and Sh30,000
Families must present:
Original death certificate
Original ID
A letter from the local administration (chief, assistant chief, DCC or county commissioner) confirming the claimant
A signed affidavit from a commissioner for oaths
This allows Safaricom to release the funds safely.
- Between Sh30,001 and Sh200,000
In this case, the claimant needs a letter from:
A public trustee (AG’s office), or
Deputy county commissioner, or
County commissioner
This is accompanied by claimant identification documents.
- Above Sh200,000 — Treated as Full Succession
This level requires:
A grant of probate, or
A letter of administration
These documents come from the courts and are part of Kenya’s succession process. They can take months or longer depending on whether there are disputes in the family.
Why Timing Matters
Safaricom provides a two-year window for families to claim the money. After that, any unclaimed balance goes to the Unclaimed Financial Assets Authority (UFAA). Even if the SIM card expires, the funds never do they remain protected under UFAA.
In all cases, once the paperwork is approved, Safaricom releases the money within 24 hours.
Why Withdrawing the Money Is Illegal
Some families try to solve what happens to your M-PESA when you die by simply withdrawing the money using an agent. Safaricom warns this is a crime.
Agents require the original ID matching the registered M-PESA user withdrawing without following succession laws is considered fraud.
“Safaricom doesn’t authorise next of kin to withdraw money for the deceased. That money must go through the legal succession process,” said Selline.
What Happens to Loans Like Fuliza and M-Shwari?
These products simply reach “end of life.” Safaricom does not transfer loan obligations to next of kin.
A Final Word for Families
The emotional toll of losing a loved one can make paperwork feel overwhelming. But understanding what happens to your M-PESA when you die helps families avoid illegal shortcuts, protect the estate, and ensure the money goes to the rightful people.
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