How to Get Out of CRB

Being listed on CRB can block your access to loans, jobs, and many financial opportunities. The good news is that it is possible to clear your record or at least improve your standing by acting responsibly, following the rules, and engaging with the right parties.

Quick Answer — At a Glance

1. Check your CRB status and identify the negative listings

2. Pay or settle the debts that caused your listing

3. Request your lender to report the settlement to CRB agencies

4. Dispute any incorrect listings with the bureau

5. Apply for a CRB clearance or status update once your record is clean

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check your CRB status

   • Use the official channels of the three licensed bureaus: Metropol, TransUnion, and Creditinfo.

   • For example, TransUnion allows you to check through SMS or their Nipashe app.

2. Identify what you owe and to whom

   • Review your CRB report carefully. Note which loans or debts are flagged, which institutions reported them, and the amounts.

   • Cross-check with your own records or bank statements for confirmation.

3. Settle your debts or negotiate repayment plans

   • Contact your lender for the exact outstanding balance, including any interest or penalties.

   • If you cannot pay in full, ask about a structured repayment plan or negotiate for a reduction.

   • After payment, obtain written proof such as a receipt or updated statement.

4. Ensure the lender notifies CRB agencies

   • Once you settle, your lender must formally notify CRB agencies so that your status changes from “default” to “paid” or “closed.”

   • This update may take up to 30 days.

5. Dispute any incorrect listings

   • If you find an error, such as a debt that does not belong to you or an already cleared loan, file a dispute with the relevant CRB.

   • Provide supporting documents such as receipts, bank statements, or your ID.

   • The CRB is required to investigate within about 21 working days.

6. Apply for a clearance certificate or status update

   • Once the negative listings are resolved, apply for a CRB clearance or status certificate through Metropol, TransUnion, or Creditinfo.

   • This document proves your record has been updated.

7. Build positive credit behavior going forward

   • Pay all your loans on time.

   • Avoid defaulting on even small obligations like utilities or mobile loans.

   • Use credit responsibly and do not overborrow.

Important Notes & Tips

• Clearing debts does not erase the negative entry immediately. It updates the status to “paid default,” which stays on record for some years but is better than an active default.

• Always follow up after paying to confirm the lender has notified the CRB.

• Do not trust anyone who claims they can “remove your name from CRB” without payment or documentation, as this is a common scam.

• You are entitled to one free CRB credit report per year from each bureau. Use this to track your progress.

• If your listing was caused by identity theft or error, strong evidence will be key to winning your dispute.

FAQs

Can I get out of CRB immediately after paying?
No. It usually takes several weeks for CRB to update records. The status will first show as “paid default.”

Is it possible to remove a CRB listing that is correct?
No. Correct listings can only be updated to show repayment, not erased.

How long does a negative CRB entry remain?
A paid default can stay on record for up to five years, though it will reflect as settled.

What if a lender refuses to notify CRB after I pay?
You can escalate the issue with the CRB itself, the Central Bank of Kenya, or the Data Protection Office.

Does a clean CRB guarantee I will get a loan?
Not always, but your chances improve significantly when you have a clean repayment history.