Summary:
If you are a regular M-PESA user in Kenya, you probably rely on Fuliza when your balance runs low. However, many people struggle with low Fuliza limits that don’t meet their needs. This guide explains how Safaricom determines your Fuliza limit and the 10 proven, safe ways to increase it in 2025.
What is Fuliza and Why Does Your Limit Matter?
Fuliza is an overdraft service from Safaricom and its partners (NCBA Bank and KCB Bank) that allows M-PESA users to complete transactions even when they don’t have enough money in their account. For many Kenyans, it has become a financial lifeline for paying bills, sending money, or making urgent purchases.
Your Fuliza limit is the maximum amount of overdraft you can access. This limit is not fixed — it changes depending on how you use your M-PESA account and how trustworthy you appear to the system. While some people can borrow up to Ksh 70,000, others are stuck at Ksh 0 or a few hundred shillings.
If you want your limit to grow, you need to understand how Safaricom evaluates you. The company looks at your transaction history, repayment behaviour, and overall M-PESA activity. Below are the most effective ways to boost your Fuliza limit in 2025.
1. Use M-PESA Frequently and Consistently
The more you use M-PESA, the better your chances of a higher Fuliza limit. Depositing money, withdrawing, paying bills, buying goods, and sending money regularly builds your profile as an active customer. If you rarely transact, the system cannot trust you with a bigger overdraft.
2. Repay Fuliza on Time — Don’t Delay
Repayment is the number one factor in increasing your limit. Safaricom expects you to clear your Fuliza balance as soon as you receive money in your M-PESA wallet. Paying on time — preferably within a few hours or days — shows you are reliable. Delaying or letting the system deduct the money automatically can hurt your credit profile.
3. Maintain a Healthy Transaction Volume
It’s not just about using M-PESA often, but also about the size and type of transactions. Receiving money from different sources, paying utilities, shopping with Lipa na M-PESA, and transferring funds makes your account look financially active. High transaction volumes usually lead to higher Fuliza limits.
4. Keep Your Line Active for at Least 6 Months
If you are new to Safaricom or recently started using M-PESA, your Fuliza limit will likely be low or even zero. Safaricom requires at least six months of consistent usage to fully assess your creditworthiness. Be patient, stay active, and use M-PESA services regularly during this period.
5. Use Other Safaricom Financial Services Responsibly
Safaricom looks at your overall financial behaviour. If you also use M-Shwari, KCB M-PESA, or Pochi la Biashara, and you repay loans or manage balances well, your Fuliza limit is more likely to increase. For businesses, Safaricom has introduced Fuliza Biashara and Taasi credit services, which can give merchants much higher overdraft facilities if their till or Pochi wallet shows steady activity for at least six months.
6. Avoid Defaults or Unpaid Balances
Any record of non-payment — whether on Fuliza, M-Shwari, or KCB M-PESA — negatively affects your profile. If you have outstanding balances, clear them as soon as possible. Even small defaults can freeze your limit or cause it to drop.
7. Improve Your Overall Credit Reputation
Although Fuliza is tied to M-PESA, your behaviour in other credit platforms (banks, SACCOs, or digital lenders) can affect how the system scores you. If you are listed negatively by the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB), your Fuliza limit may remain low. Managing all your debts responsibly is key.
8. Beware of Scams and Shortcuts
Many fraudsters promise “instant Fuliza limit increases” for a fee. These are scams. No individual or agent can alter your limit — only Safaricom’s automated system can. Never share your PIN, ID number, or OTP with anyone claiming to increase your limit. Protect your account.
9. Use the Official Fuliza Menu and App
You can manage your Fuliza through *USSD (334#) or the official M-PESA app. Sometimes opting out and back in again refreshes your account and recalculates your limit, but this is not guaranteed. Always use official Safaricom channels to avoid fraud.
10. Be Patient and Consistent
Fuliza limits are dynamic — they go up or down depending on your usage. Even if you do everything right, the system may take time before adjusting your limit. What matters is consistency: keep transacting, repay on time, and avoid negative balances. Over months, you’ll see your limit grow.
Read Also: The Newest MMF in Town: Ziidi Money Market Fund
Quick Monthly Checklist to Grow Your Limit
- Clear your Fuliza balance as soon as you can.
- Receive money regularly into your M-PESA wallet.
- Use M-PESA to pay bills, shop, and send money.
- Stay active on other Safaricom financial products.
- Avoid scams and unofficial “hacks.”
Final Word: The Truth About Increasing Your Fuliza Limit in 2025
There is no magic trick to instantly increase your Fuliza limit. Safaricom uses a smart algorithm that looks at how responsible you are with money. If you transact frequently, repay promptly, and stay consistent, your limit will rise naturally over time.
For business users, 2025 comes with more opportunities through Fuliza Biashara and Taasi credit — giving merchants bigger overdrafts if they maintain healthy till activity. For individuals, the best path remains the same: be reliable, repay early, and keep your account active.
