CRB in Kenya Demystified: How to Check Your Status With TransUnion, Metropol, and Creditinfo
How three different bureaus in Kenya hold fragments of your financial life in their files
In Kenya, your credit history isn’t just a formality — it’s a record that decides whether you can access loans, mortgages, or even small advances from SACCOs. That record is kept by Credit Reference Bureaus (CRBs). The country has three licensed players: TransUnion, Metropol, and Creditinfo. Each one is connected to the Central Bank’s credit information framework, meaning banks share data with all three.
But how do you actually check your status with them? Here’s a straightforward guide to the process for each bureau.
Checking With TransUnion
TransUnion is the most widely used bureau among banks. If you’re planning a big loan — for example, car financing or a mortgage — this is the one you want to check first.
Options:
- USSD: Dial *433#, register with your ID number, and follow the prompts. You’ll receive an SMS showing your status (Good, Default, or Cleared).
- Nipashe App: Download TransUnion Nipashe on Android or iOS. Register with your ID and phone number. Once verified, you can request your annual credit report for KSh 50. This gives a full breakdown of active loans, repayments, and your credit score.
- Cost: The annual report is free once a year. USSD queries cost a small fee (usually KSh 20–50). Extra reports cost about KSh 250.
Checking With Metropol
Metropol has strong links with SACCOs and digital lenders. If you’ve used mobile loans, you’ll likely find them listed here.
Options:
- USSD: Dial *433#, just like TransUnion. Registration requires your ID and a one-time fee of KSh 50. After that, you can check your status anytime.
- Crystobol App: Download Metropol Crystobol on Android or iOS. Sign up with your ID and phone number. The app lets you pull your free annual report and pay for extra services.
- Cost: Registration is KSh 50. Status checks via SMS or app updates cost about KSh 20–50. A full report or score is about KSh 250.
Checking With Creditinfo
Creditinfo is less focused on mobile loans but strong in the corporate and SME space. Some banks also use it, making it relevant for entrepreneurs.
Options:
- Email Request: Go to creditinfo.co.ke and request your credit report online. You’ll need to submit a scanned ID and fill out a short form.
- Delivery: The report is sent to your email, usually the same day. It includes your loan history, active accounts, and repayment performance.
- Cost: One free report per year. Extra reports come at a fee.
Why You Should Check All Three
While banks and major lenders share data with all bureaus, some digital lenders and SACCOs don’t. That means TransUnion may not show exactly the same information as Metropol. Creditinfo may capture SME loans that don’t appear elsewhere. Checking at least two — TransUnion and Metropol — gives you a fuller picture.
Conclusion
Checking your CRB status isn’t a chore; it’s financial housekeeping. The USSD option gives you a quick snapshot, the apps provide detailed reports, and the annual free report from each bureau gives you the full story. If you’re thinking about a loan, whether small or life-changing, knowing your CRB status beforehand gives you control over the conversation — instead of waiting for a lender to break the news.
Go to TECHTRENDSKE.co.ke for more tech and business news from the African continent.
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