How to Increase M-PESA Commission

How to Increase M-PESA Commission

To increase M-PESA commission, agents must work smart: boosting transaction volume, getting better commission terms, improving service, and using the right tools can all help.

Quick Answer — At a Glance

• Get an aggregated M-PESA line so you receive the full 80% commission split with the principal. (know.co.ke)

• Set up shop in a high-traffic location and ensure good float so you don’t turn away customers. (surfstop.co.ke)

• Offer value-added services like airtime top-ups, bill payments, loans, etc., to increase transaction types and volumes. (surfstop.co.ke)

• Monitor your business performance regularly (daily transactions, commissions) and adjust your float, hours, or staffing accordingly. (sledge.co.ke)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Increase Your M-PESA Commission

1. Obtain or convert to an aggregated MPESA line

• Talk to Safaricom about getting an aggregated line; this ensures you get your commission directly rather than through a principal. (know.co.ke)

• Confirm the commission split (often 80% to you, 20% to the principal) and the payment schedule.

2. Choose and maintain a prime location

• Locate your shop where many people pass by: markets, transport hubs, shopping areas, busy residential zones. (surfstop.co.ke)

• Make your premises visible, clean, branded with Safaricom/M-PESA signage. Friendly and efficient service draws repeat customers.

3. Ensure you always have sufficient float

• Float means having enough cash (and MPESA credit) so you can fulfill withdrawals and deposits during busy periods. Running out of float means lost commission.

• Track transaction volumes by time of day or day of week to plan float top-ups accordingly.

4. Diversify services and transaction types

• Beyond simple withdrawal & deposit, allow customers to pay utility bills, buy airtime, register for new MPESA lines, do loan & savings related transactions.

• Encourage larger transactions (within safe and permissible limits) because higher amounts often carry higher absolute commission. (sledge.co.ke)

5. Build customer loyalty & visibility

• Offer excellent customer service: greeting clients well, fast queuing, accurate transactions.

• Use signage, local advertising (flyers, word of mouth, social media) to let people know you are an agent.

• Possibly loyalty incentives for frequent customers.

6. Track performance and adjust strategy

• Check your commission balance frequently via Safaricom App (or agent dashboard) to see what’s earning well. (jitimu.com)

• Analyze which transactions bring more commission, what times are busy, when float runs out, etc.

• Adjust hours, float, staffing, or even additional outlet(s) if viable.

Sources & Commission Info

Here are some current MPESA commission rates and structures to illustrate what agents are working with:

• Deposit commissions start at ~KES 4 for Ksh 50-100 deposits, rising with larger amounts; for deposit bands up to KES 50,000-70,000, commission can reach ~KES 190. (jitimu.com)

• Withdrawal commission bands are similar: small withdrawals earn lower commission, larger withdrawals yield more. (sledge.co.ke)

FAQs

Q: What exactly is an “aggregated MPESA line”?
A: It’s an arrangement where you own the line directly and get paid commission directly by Safaricom. You avoid delays or reduced splits that happen when using someone else’s (principal’s) line. (know.co.ke)

Q: Does having a great location really make that much difference?
A: Yes. More foot traffic means more transactions; even small commissions add up when you have many customers. It can make the difference between low and high monthly earnings.

Q: What if I often run out of float – how much float should I have?
A: It depends on your location and average transaction volume. Start by tracking your busiest times, estimate how much cash and mobile money you need, and keep a buffer so you don’t turn away customers during peak hours.

Q: Are there any Safaricom incentives or bonuses for agents with high transaction volumes?
A: Safaricom has introduced the aggregated lines, which improve commission split and guarantee timely payments. While there aren’t always specific bonuses published, higher volume tends to lead to better earning potential inherently.

Q: How can I check how much commission I’ve earned and when I’ll be paid?
A: Use the Safaricom agent dashboard or MySafaricom App: select “show my commission balance,” enter your PIN, and you’ll get an SMS or in-app confirmation. Aggregated line agents are paid by the 1st or 2nd of the next month. (tuko.co.ke)