Getting listed by a Credit Reference Bureau (CRB) in Kenya can feel like hitting a financial wall—especially when applying for a loan, a job, or even a tenancy that requires a CRB Clearance Certificate.
But here’s the truth: you don’t actually “remove” yourself from CRB. CRBs are databases that keep your credit history. What you can do is change your status from negative (defaulted) to positive (cleared)—and that’s what lenders and employers care about.
This detailed guide walks you through exactly how to fix your CRB status in Kenya in 2026.
Understanding CRB in Kenya
In Kenya, CRBs are licensed by the Central Bank of Kenya to collect and share credit information about borrowers.
There are currently three licensed CRBs:
- Metropol CRB
- TransUnion Kenya
- Creditinfo Kenya
These institutions receive reports from:
- Banks
- SACCOs
- Mobile lenders (like M-Shwari)
- Utilities and other credit providers
The Golden Rule: How to Fix a CRB Listing
You cannot bribe or pay a CRB to delete your name. The only legitimate process is:
1. Identify the Debt
Request your credit report from any CRB. This report will show:
- Who listed you
- How much you owe
- Your current status
💡 You’re entitled to one free credit report per year from each CRB.
2. Pay the Lender (Not the CRB)
Once you confirm the debt:
- Pay the bank, SACCO, or mobile lender directly
- Keep proof (M-Pesa message, receipt, or bank slip)
⚠️ Paying the CRB will NOT clear your listing.
3. Wait for Status Update
After payment:
- Lenders must update your status within 48 hours to 7 days
- Your listing changes from “Negative” → “Paid/Cleared”
4. Apply for a Clearance Certificate
Once updated, apply for a CRB Clearance Certificate.
This document proves:
- You have no outstanding defaults
- Your credit status is now clean
Guide to the 3 Licensed CRBs in Kenya
A. Metropol CRB
One of the most widely used CRBs, especially by banks and micro-lenders.
Access Methods:
- USSD:
*433# - Mobile App: Crystobol
- Website: metropol.co.ke
Charges:
- Registration: KSh 100
- Credit Report: Free (once/year), then KSh 250
- Credit Score: KSh 150
- Clearance Certificate: KSh 2,200
B. TransUnion Kenya
A global credit bureau heavily used by major banks.
Access Methods:
- USSD:
*814# - SMS: Send your name to 21272
- App: Nipashe
- Website: transunionafrica.com/kenya
Charges:
- Registration: KSh 50
- Credit Report: Free (once/year), then KSh 300
- Clearance Certificate: KSh 2,200
C. Creditinfo Kenya
Popular among fintech and digital lenders.
Access Methods:
- Website: creditinfo.co.ke
- Email: cikinfo@creditinfo.co.ke
Charges:
- Credit Report: Free (once/year)
- Clearance Certificate: KSh 2,200
- Optional monitoring subscription available
What If Your Listing Is Wrong?
Mistakes happen—maybe you already paid, or the debt isn’t yours.
Here’s what to do:
File a Dispute (It’s FREE)
- Contact the CRB that listed you
- Submit proof of payment or evidence
- The CRB contacts the lender
Investigation Timeline
- The CRB has 14 days to investigate
- If the lender fails to respond:
- The listing must be removed by law
Cost Summary (2026)
| Service | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Credit Report | FREE | Once per year |
| Extra Reports | KSh 250–300 | Per request |
| Clearance Certificate | KSh 2,200 | Per CRB |
| Dispute Filing | FREE | If incorrect listing |
Important Tips to Avoid CRB Listing
- Pay mobile loans (even small ones like airtime advances) on time
- Don’t ignore “tiny” debts—they still get reported
- Regularly check your credit report
- Clear debts at least 1 month before applying for a loan or job
Final Thoughts
Being listed on CRB isn’t the end of your financial journey—it’s a signal to correct and rebuild. Once you settle your debts and get your clearance certificate, your financial credibility is restored.
Think of CRB as your financial report card:
You can’t erase the past, but you can definitely improve your grade.