Equitel and M-PESA in Kenya’s Mobile Money Ecosystem
Kenya continues to lead the way in mobile money innovation, and two of the most recognized platforms in this space are Equitel (powered by Equity Bank) and M-PESA (operated by Safaricom). With a growing number of users relying on both platforms for daily transactions, one of the most common questions is:
How much does it cost to transfer money from Equitel to M-PESA?
Whether you’re sending money to family, paying a vendor, or funding your M-PESA wallet for daily expenses, understanding the Equitel to M-PESA transfer charges is key to better financial planning and avoiding unexpected fees.
Can You Send Money from Equitel to M-PESA?
Yes.
Equitel users can transfer funds to any M-PESA number in Kenya through the Equitel SIM menu, Equity Mobile App, or Equity Online Banking. These platforms provide a seamless integration between Equitel and other mobile money networks.
Equitel to M-PESA Transfer Charges
Below is the updated fee structure for sending money from Equitel to M-PESA, as of August 2025. These charges apply whether you’re using the Equitel SIM toolkit, Equity Mobile App, or Equity Bank USSD code *247#.
| Amount Transferred (Ksh) | Transfer Fee (Ksh) |
|---|---|
| 10 – 100 | 0 |
| 101 – 500 | 6 |
| 501 – 1,000 | 12 |
| 1,001 – 1,500 | 22 |
| 1,501 – 2,500 | 32 |
| 2,501 – 3,500 | 51 |
| 3,501 – 5,000 | 57 |
| 5,001 – 7,500 | 78 |
| 7,501 – 10,000 | 90 |
| 10,001 – 15,000 | 105 |
| 15,001 – 20,000 | 110 |
| 20,001 – 25,000 | 115 |
| 25,001 – 30,000 | 120 |
| 30,001 – 35,000 | 125 |
| 35,001 – 40,000 | 130 |
| 40,001 – 45,000 | 135 |
| 45,001 – 50,000 | 140 |
| 50,001 – 70,000 | 160 |
Note: These rates may be subject to change depending on Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) directives or Equity Bank policies. Always check the latest charges using the Equity mobile app or customer service.
How to Send Money from Equitel to M-PESA
Option 1: Using the Equitel Menu
- Open the Equitel SIM Toolkit.
- Select “My Money”.
- Choose “Send/Pay”.
- Select “To Mobile Money” → “To M-PESA”.
- Enter the recipient’s M-PESA number.
- Enter the amount you want to send.
- Confirm the transaction and input your Equitel PIN.
- Wait for an SMS confirmation from Equitel and M-PESA.
Option 2: Using the Equity Mobile App
- Log in to your Equity Mobile App.
- Go to “Send Money”.
- Select “Mobile Money” → “M-PESA”.
- Enter the recipient’s mobile number and amount.
- Select the account to debit, then tap “Send”.
- Confirm and authorize the transaction using your app PIN or biometrics.
Tips to Minimize Transfer Fees
- Bundle your transfers: If you send multiple small amounts frequently, try to consolidate them into one larger transfer to save on cumulative fees.
- Use free transfer windows: Occasionally, Equity and Safaricom run promotions or free-transfer periods. Watch for updates.
- Keep below thresholds: Transferring Ksh 100 or less is free.
Equity Bank Customer Care
- Call: 0763 000 000
- Email: [email protected]
- USSD Help: Dial
*247#and navigate to “Customer Support” - Visit: Any Equity Bank branch nationwide
READ MORE: Equitel to M-PESA Transfer Charges
