How to Apply for NSSF Online in Kenya

National Social Security Fund (NSSF) is a national scheme that was established by the government to provide financial security to Kenyans when they retire. NSSF is mandatory for those employed in the formal sector while it is voluntary for those in self-employment. Both the employer and employee contribute 5% of an employee’s salary to the NSSF. Normally, the contributions range between Ksh 360 to Ksh 1,080 per month. Besides, you can also top up your contributions through Mpesa.

In this article, we are going to focus on NSSF online registration and its benefits.

NSSF Registration Requirements

To register for NSSF, you need to have the following:

Original and a copy of your ID or passport
A copy of your KRA Pin certificate
Letter or appointment from your employer for employees
A minimum amount of Ksh 200, being an initial contribution to your account

NSSF Online Registration for Self Employed

If you are self-employed, you need to visit the NSSF office or Huduma Center to register. However, you can start the registration process and then have it completed at the NSSF offices. To register for NSSF online, follow these simple steps:

Visit the NSSF self service portal
Under Members, select “Voluntary NSSF Member”
Enter your personal details and then click “Save”
Visit the NSSF office or Huduma center near you to complete the registration
You will be given NSSF membership card
Make an initial contribution of Ksh 200 to your NSSF account for activation
Start contributing to your account through the NSSF branch or Mpesa

How to Make NSSF Contributions via Mpesa

It is possible to make NSSF contributions via Mpesa. It is the fastest and most convenient way. However, to be an NSSF member, you must be a registered Mpesa customer. Follow these simple steps to make your contributions via Mpesa.

Open your Mpesa app
Select Lipa na Mpesa and then Paybill
Enter NSSF paybill number: 333300
Enter your NSSF number as the account number
Enter the amount you wish to pay
Confirm payment and then enter your PIN
You will receive a confirmation message that money has been sent to NSSF

How to Access NSSF Services

You can easily access NSSF services online or through the NSSF app. NSSF has an app available for Android and iOS users. Once you have downloaded the app on your device, login in using your NSSF number and password. You can access NSSF services like requesting NSSF statements through the app.

How to Get My NSSF Number Online

If you want to make contributions to your NSSF account, you need to have your NSSF number. If you have forgotten it, you may want to know how to retrieve your NSSF number. Follow these simple steps to check the NSSF number using ID:

Log in to your NSSF account
Select the Members section
Select whether you are employed or self-employed
Click request an NSSF number
Your NSSF number will be automatically displayed

How to Get NSSF Number Via SMS

You just need to send an SMS with your NSSF number to the recipient number: 6773. Follow these simple steps to request an NSSF number via SMS.

In the recipient field, enter 6773
Type your message as follows: NSSF <leave space> NSSF Number <leave space> Date of birth
Then send the message to: 6773

How to Get NSSF Statement

Once you have made contributions, you may want to see your NSSF contribution statement. You can get an NSFF statement online, through the NSSF app, or by physically visiting NSSF offices. Follow these simple steps to request an NSSF statement via the portal:

Visit the NSSF self service portal
Click on the “Member self service links” option
Click on the "NSSF contributions statement" in the drop down menu
You will be redirected to a log in page. Provide your login details
Enter the statement period for which you want
Click on “Issue account”

How to Receive NSSF Benefits and Grants

Members are eligible for NSSF benefits and grants when they hit the age of 55 or when they retire. You need to be aware that NSSF benefits are liable to income taxation. Also, the interest that your NSSF savings will have earned are also taxable.

To start receiving NSSF benefits, visit the nearest NSSF office. Make sure to carry:

A retirement letter
NSSF membership card
National identity card or passport
Bank details

What Happens to the NSSF Account if You Lose Your Job?

If you lose your job, you will continue to be a member of the NSSF. Even when you are not making contributions, your earlier contributions will continue earning interest. You can then continue making contributions through Mpesa or NSSF offices when you get another job.

Summary of NSSF Online Registration in Kenya

The NSSF is a great way to save for your retirement. However, it should not be your last resort. NSSF benefits are not huge and you cannot rely on them wholly after your retirement. You should consider investment ideas for retirement income. Besides, NSSF benefits are only available after you retire. As such, you may not access the money in times of emergencies if you have not retired.