Your Read is on the Way
Every Story Matters
Every Story Matters
The Hydropower Boom in Africa: A Green Energy Revolution Africa is tapping into its immense hydropower potential, ushering in an era of renewable energy. With monumental projects like Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and the Inga Dams in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the continent is gearing up to address its energy demands sustainably while driving economic growth.
Northern Kenya is a region rich in resources, cultural diversity, and strategic trade potential, yet it remains underutilized in the national development agenda.
Can AI Help cure HIV AIDS in 2025
Why Ruiru is Almost Dominating Thika in 2025
Mathare Exposed! Discover Mathare-Nairobi through an immersive ground and aerial Tour- HD
Bullet Bras Evolution || Where did Bullet Bras go to?
The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) in Kenya provides financial aid to students pursuing tertiary education. Once you complete your studies, HELB expects repayment to begin within a specified period. Failing to adhere to this schedule can result in penalties, accumulation of interest, and legal consequences. This article breaks down everything you need to know about repaying your HELB loan — timelines, methods, penalties, and what to do if you’re unemployed.
Repayment starts one year after completing studies, whether or not you are formally employed. This grace period is intended to give graduates time to transition into the workforce. However, interest begins to accrue immediately after the grace period ends, making it financially wiser to start repayments early, even before the official due date.
Note: If you secure employment before the grace period ends, you're encouraged to begin repayment immediately to minimize interest and penalties.
Repayment is calculated based on:
1.Total amount borrowed
2.Interest accrued (currently at 4% per annum for undergraduate loans)
3.Penalties (Ksh. 5,000 per month for delayed payments)
HELB issues you a loan statement which breaks down:
1.Principal amount
2.Interest charged
3.Penalties (if any)
4.Total amount due
You can check this statement by logging in to your HELB portal account or by contacting HELB customer service.
You can repay your HELB loan through multiple channels. Here’s a breakdown:
If you're employed, your employer is required by law to deduct the HELB loan monthly and remit it directly to HELB. Here's how:
1.Notify your HR that you have a HELB loan.
2.Provide your ID number and HELB account number.
3.HELB then gives your employer a monthly deduction schedule.
Tip: Always confirm that your employer is submitting your deductions to HELB to avoid penalties.
To repay via M-PESA:
1.Go to M-PESA > Lipa na M-PESA > Paybill
2.Enter HELB Business Number: 200800
3.Account Number: Your National ID Number
4.Enter amount you wish to pay
5.Enter your M-PESA PIN and confirm
Note: You’ll receive a confirmation SMS from both M-PESA and HELB.
1.Log into your account on the HELB website.
2.Navigate to “Repay Loan” section.
3.Choose payment method (Card, Bank transfer, etc.)
4.Follow the instructions provided.
Payments can be made through HELB-partner banks, including:
1.Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB)
2.Equity Bank
3.Co-operative Bank
4.Family Bank
Use your National ID as the account reference number.
If you are abroad, you can repay via:
1.WorldRemit, PayPal, or Wave
2.Bank wire transfers to HELB’s foreign accounts
3.Contact HELB for bank account details and instructions.
HELB imposes a Ksh. 5,000 monthly penalty for every month you fail to make a scheduled payment after the grace period. Penalties accrue quickly and inflate your balance substantially. HELB is also known to:
1.Blacklist defaulters with CRB (Credit Reference Bureau)
2.Pursue legal enforcement
3.Bar you from government jobs or tenders
If you are unemployed and unable to begin repayment:
1.Write to HELB explaining your employment status.
2.Attach supporting documents (CV, job applications, etc.)
3.Request for a repayment moratorium or rescheduling.
HELB may give you a temporary reprieve but this must be officially requested.
Always track your repayment progress by:
1.Logging into the HELB online portal
2.Checking your email for payment confirmations
3.Visiting HELB offices if you need clarification
1.Start repaying early: Even small amounts reduce your interest over time.
2.Avoid penalties: Make regular payments, even during unemployment if possible.
3.Update your contact details: HELB sends critical updates via SMS and email.
4.Use automated reminders: Set calendar alerts to avoid missed payments.
0 comments