Safaricom SIM transfer: What happens to Fuliza, M-PESA and other loans when ownership changes?

Changing the registered owner of a Safaricom SIM card might seem like a straightforward process, but an outstanding Fuliza balance can complicate matters. This insight has prompted Safaricom to clarify the distinction between different types of loans and their impact on SIM ownership transfers.

The company addressed concerns a customer raised on social media about whether outstanding loans from Tala, Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), or Fuliza could hinder the transfer of a Safaricom SIM card. Safaricom explained that Tala and HELB loans, provided by their respective platforms, do not prevent a SIM line change because they are not directly connected to Safaricom services. However, Fuliza, which operates as a continuous overdraft service through M-PESA, does fall into a different category.

For Fuliza, any outstanding balance must be settled before the SIM ownership can be transferred. This is due to Fuliza's terms, which state that customers agree not to terminate or cancel their Safaricom mobile number registration while owing money. If there is a remaining balance, Safaricom will attempt to recover it from funds deposited into the customer's M-PESA account until the debt is cleared.

This distinction is crucial for customers planning to transfer a Safaricom SIM. Before attempting the transfer, they should check their Fuliza balance through the M-PESA menu or by dialing *334#. If there is an outstanding amount, it must be paid to avoid any issues during the ownership change.

It's also important to note that loans from other providers, such as Tala or HELB, do not create the same restriction. Therefore, customers should not assume that all outstanding loans will prevent a SIM transfer. The key factor is whether the debt is directly tied to the Safaricom line.

This clarification provides a straightforward checklist for customers: verify the services connected to the line, confirm if Fuliza is outstanding, settle any amount preventing the transfer, and ensure the new ownership is formally recorded. By following these steps, customers can ensure a smooth SIM ownership transfer without unexpected complications.