Many Kenyans often worry about their credit score, especially when applying for loans. Learning how to check CRB status online in Kenya is one of the most important steps to understand your credit health. Whether you want a loan from a bank, mobile app, or Sacco, lenders will always check your CRB report before approving you.
This guide explains the easiest methods to check your CRB status, the requirements, fees, and how to interpret your credit report.
What Is CRB in Kenya?
A Credit Reference Bureau (CRB) is a licensed institution that collects and stores information about your borrowing and repayment history.
In Kenya, the three licensed CRBs are:
- Metropol CRB
- TransUnion Kenya
- CreditInfo (ClearScore Kenya provides easy access)
Lenders use data from these CRBs to assess if you are eligible for credit.
Why Your CRB Status Matters
Your CRB status determines whether lenders see you as a low-risk or high-risk borrower. A negative listing (blacklisting) can block you from getting loans from banks, Saccos, and mobile lenders.
A positive CRB status means:
- You repay loans on time.
- You qualify for higher loan limits.
- Lenders trust you with better interest rates.
A negative CRB status means:
- You have unpaid loans.
- You may face loan rejections.
- Some lenders charge higher interest.
How to Check CRB Status Online in Kenya (3 Official Methods)
1. How to Check CRB Status Using Metropol CRB
Metropol is one of the fastest and most popular CRBs in Kenya.
Step-by-Step Process
- Dial *433# on your phone.
- Enter your Identification Number (ID).
- Pay the registration fee of KES 100 via Mpesa (Paybill 220388, Account Number = Your ID).
- After registration, choose the service you want:
- Credit Score
- Credit Report
- CRB Clearance Certificate
Metropol CRB Fees
- Credit Score – KES 150
- Credit Report – KES 250
- CRB Clearance Certificate – KES 2,200
Alternative Online Method
- Download the Metropol Crystobol App on Play Store or use the web portal.
2. How to Check CRB Status Using TransUnion
TransUnion Kenya offers credit reports through its mobile service called Nipashe.
Method 1: SMS Method
- Send your full name to 21272.
- You will receive a message guiding you through the steps.
- Registration fee is KES 50.
- You can then request:
- Credit Report
- Status Check
- Clearance Certificate
Method 2: Mobile App
- Download the TransUnion Nipashe App from Play Store.
- Register using your details and follow on-screen steps.
TransUnion Fees
- Status Check – KES 50
- Credit Report – KES 650
- Clearance Certificate – KES 2,200
3. How to Check CRB Status Using CreditInfo (ClearScore Kenya)
CreditInfo works with ClearScore Kenya to give free credit reports.
How to Check
- Visit the ClearScore Kenya website or app.
- Create an account using your details.
- Complete identity verification.
- Access your free credit report and score.
Fees
- Credit report – Free
- Clearance certificate (from CreditInfo directly) – KES 2,200
What You Need Before Checking Your CRB Status
To access your CRB report easily, make sure you have:
- Your National ID Number
- Your active mobile phone number
- Ability to pay the required fee (if any)
- Access to SMS, app, or internet
Types of CRB Status in Kenya
When you check your CRB status, you may see one of the following:
1. Good/Positive Status
This means:
- Timely repayment of loans
- Strong credit history
- High chances of loan approvals
2. Negative Status (Blacklisted)
This means a lender reported you for:
- Unpaid loans
- Late repayments
- Loan defaults
A negative status reduces your ability to borrow until the issue is resolved.
How to Know If You Are Blacklisted by CRB
You are blacklisted if your credit report shows:
- Non-performing loans (over 90 days overdue)
- Negative listing from a lender
- Outstanding loan balances not cleared
Most CRBs will show this clearly as an adverse listing.
How to Clear a Negative CRB Listing
If you discover you have a negative status, follow these steps:
Step 1: Identify the Lender
Your CRB report shows the lender who listed you.
Step 2: Clear the Outstanding Loan
Repay the loan directly to the lender using their official paybill or bank details.
Step 3: Request an Update
Ask the lender to:
- Update your status
- Issue a clearance letter
Step 4: Apply for a CRB Clearance Certificate
Once updated, apply through:
- Metropol
- TransUnion
- CreditInfo
The certificate costs KES 2,200 across all CRBs.
How Long Does It Take to Be Removed From CRB?
- After repayment, lenders usually take 1–3 business days to update CRB records.
- For older listings, it may take up to 7 days to reflect.
How Often Should You Check Your CRB Status?
Experts recommend checking your CRB status at least twice a year to stay aware of your credit position and detect errors early.
You can also check before:
- Applying for a bank loan
- Applying for a Sacco loan
- Applying for digital loans
- Starting a new job that checks credit records
Tips to Maintain a Positive CRB Status
- Pay all your loans on time.
- Avoid taking multiple loans at once.
- Borrow only what you can repay.
- Check your credit report regularly.
- Resolve disputes with lenders quickly.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to check CRB status online in Kenya is essential for anyone who wants healthy credit and easy access to loans. The process is simple and can be completed within minutes using Metropol, TransUnion, or CreditInfo.
A good CRB status strengthens your financial reputation, increases your borrowing power, and helps you secure better financial opportunities.
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