Fuliza is a convenient overdraft facility for M-PESA users, offering a quick solution when you’re short on funds. It allows you to complete transactions such as sending money or paying bills, even if your M-PESA account has insufficient balance.
While it’s an excellent service for emergencies, some users find themselves wanting to opt out, either to manage their finances better or because they no longer need the service.
This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to opt out of Fuliza, what happens after you do so, and how to manage the service responsibly.
What is Fuliza?
Fuliza is a digital overdraft service provided by Safaricom in partnership with NCBA and KCB Bank. It allows M-PESA users to borrow small amounts of money to complete transactions when their account balance is insufficient.
Key features of Fuliza include:
- Instant Overdrafts: Accessible directly via your M-PESA menu.
- Dynamic Limits: Your borrowing limit increases with consistent usage and timely repayments.
- Automatic Repayments: Any incoming funds to your M-PESA account automatically go toward repaying your Fuliza balance.
While Fuliza is incredibly convenient, it can lead to dependency or financial strain if used excessively, prompting some users to opt out.
How Do I Opt Out of Fuliza M-PESA?
If you’ve decided that Fuliza is no longer for you, opting out is simple and can be done via the M-PESA menu.
Steps to Opt Out of Fuliza:
- Dial *234# on your Safaricom line.
- Select the option for Fuliza (usually option 0 or 1, depending on the menu version).
- Choose Opt-Out and confirm your decision.
- You will receive a confirmation message notifying you that you’ve successfully opted out of Fuliza.
Important Note: Ensure you’ve cleared your Fuliza balance before opting out. You won’t be allowed to exit the service if you have an outstanding overdraft.
How to Opt Out of Fuliza Online via MySafaricom App
Opting out of Fuliza via the MySafaricom App is a convenient option for users who prefer managing their services digitally. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Open the MySafaricom App: If you don’t have the app, download the app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store and log in using your Safaricom number.
- Access the Fuliza Section: Go to the “M-PESA” menu on the app’s homepage and select the Fuliza option.
- Choose to Opt Out: Within the Fuliza menu, locate the option to manage your subscription. Select Opt-Out and confirm your choice.
- Confirmation Message: You will receive an SMS notification confirming that you have successfully opted out of Fuliza.
Note: Ensure that you have cleared your outstanding Fuliza balance before attempting to opt out. If your balance is not cleared, the system will not process your request.
How to Opt Back Into Fuliza After Opting Out
If you decide to use Fuliza again after opting out, the re-enrollment process is straightforward:
- Dial *234#.
- Select Fuliza and choose the Opt-In option.
- Accept the terms and conditions.
- You’ll receive a confirmation message once re-enrolled.
Keep in mind that your previous Fuliza limit may be reset to zero and will increase gradually as you use the service responsibly.
Related: Learn how to increase your Fuliza limit
Why Is My Fuliza Limit 0 After Opting Out?
When you opt out of Fuliza and later opt back in, your previous borrowing history may no longer apply. Safaricom and its partner banks assess your borrowing limit based on current activity, M-PESA usage, and repayment behavior.
To rebuild your limit:
- Use M-PESA actively for transactions like sending money, paying bills, and shopping.
- Ensure timely repayment of any overdraft.
Over time, your limit will adjust based on your usage and repayment habits.
How Do I Decline Fuliza?
If you’re prompted to use Fuliza during a transaction and prefer not to, you can decline it:
- During the transaction, you’ll see a prompt offering you Fuliza to complete the payment.
- Select the Decline option to cancel the transaction.
Alternatively, if you never want to use Fuliza, opt out completely by following the steps outlined earlier.
Can Fuliza Put You in CRB?
No, Fuliza does not report to the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB). However, failing to repay your Fuliza balance can result in penalties, such as suspension of your M-PESA services.
It’s crucial to repay your Fuliza overdraft on time to avoid any disruptions to your Safaricom services.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay Fuliza?
If you don’t repay your Fuliza balance:
Automatic Deductions
Safaricom will deduct any incoming funds into your M-PESA account until the debt is cleared.
Service Suspension
Your access to Fuliza may be restricted, and other M-PESA services could also be affected.
Increased Costs
Penalties or daily charges will continue to accrue until the debt is fully paid.
To avoid such consequences, clear your Fuliza balance promptly.
How Do I Opt Out of M-Shwari on M-PESA?
If you also use M-Shwari and wish to opt out, follow these steps:
- Dial *234#.
- Select the M-Shwari option.
- Choose Deactivate Account.
- Confirm your decision.
Ensure your M-Shwari loan is fully repaid before deactivating the service.
Conclusion
Opting out of Fuliza is a straightforward process that helps users regain financial control or break free from dependency on overdraft services.
Whether you choose to opt out permanently or take a break, you will be required to clear your Fuliza balance before opting out.
Should you decide to use Fuliza again, you can opt-in using a few steps, though your limit may reset. Always use overdraft services responsibly to avoid financial strain and ensure seamless access to M-PESA’s other features.
Safaricom also offers alternatives like M-Shwari, making it easy to manage your finances in a way that suits your needs.