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CRB Clearance Kenya — Complete Guide 2026

Updated April 2026 — HelaBora

What is CRB?

Credit Reference Bureaus (CRBs) are licensed by the Central Bank of Kenya to collect and share credit information. Kenya has three licensed CRBs:

  • -. TransUnion Kenya (formerly CRB Africa) — largest, operates the Nipashe platform
  • -. Metropol Corporation — operates the Crystobol platform
  • -. Creditinfo Kenya — smallest of the three

Every time you take a loan (bank, SACCO, or mobile), your repayment history is reported to these CRBs. Good repayment builds your credit score. Late payments or defaults lower it.

How to Check Your CRB Status

Free Options (1 free report per year per CRB) - **TransUnion Nipashe**: Download the Nipashe app or visit nipashe.transunionafrica.com - **Metropol Crystobol**: Visit crystobol.metropol.co.ke - **Creditinfo**: Visit creditinfo.co.ke

Paid Options - **TransUnion**: KES 150 for credit score, KES 250 for full report - **Metropol**: KES 150 for basic report, KES 300 for detailed - **Via M-Pesa**: Dial *433# (Metropol) or use the Nipashe app

CRB Score Ranges

Kenya uses a score range of 200 to 900: - 720-900: Excellent — you'll qualify for the best loan rates - 680-719: Good — most banks will approve you - 620-679: Fair — some lenders may approve with conditions - 580-619: Poor — limited options, higher interest rates - 200-579: Very Poor — most formal lenders will decline

How to Get a CRB Clearance Certificate

A CRB clearance certificate proves you have no outstanding defaults. You need it for: - Bank loan applications - Employment background checks - Tenancy applications - Government contract bids

Steps: 1. Visit any CRB website or app 2. Register with your ID number and phone 3. Pay the fee (KES 150-300) 4. Download your clearance certificate (usually instant)

How to Improve Your CRB Score

  • -. Repay all loans on time — even small mobile loans affect your score
  • -. Clear any defaults — negotiate with the lender to update your CRB record after repayment
  • -. Don't apply to too many lenders at once — multiple applications in a short period lower your score
  • -. Build positive history — take small M-Shwari or Hustler Fund loans and repay on time
  • -. Check your report for errors — dispute any incorrect entries with the CRB directly

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check my CRB status for free?

Each CRB must provide one free credit report per year. Use TransUnion's Nipashe app, Metropol's Crystobol platform, or Creditinfo's website to claim your free annual report.

How much does CRB clearance cost?

CRB clearance certificates cost KES 150-300 depending on the bureau and report type. TransUnion charges KES 150 for score only and KES 250 for full report.

How long does CRB clearance take?

If you have no defaults, clearance is usually instant (digital download). If you need to clear a default first, it can take 7-30 days after the lender updates your record.

Does M-Shwari and Fuliza affect my CRB?

Yes. Both M-Shwari and Fuliza report to CRBs. Late repayment will negatively affect your credit score. Fuliza defaults are especially common due to its daily charges.