As of 2024, Kenya has officially transitioned from National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to Social Health Authority (SHA) — a new universal health coverage body under the Social Health Insurance Act. If you’re wondering how to register or check your SHA status, this simple guide will walk you through the whole process.

What is SHA and Why It Matters?

Social Health Authority (SHA) is now the body managing Kenya’s public health insurance. It aims to ensure every Kenyan, including informal workers and the unemployed, can access quality healthcare affordably.

Unlike NHIF, SHA consolidates health contributions and services under a universal health coverage model. Every Kenyan above 18 years old is required to register and contribute.

Who Needs to Register?

All of the following categories must register:

  • Kenyans aged 18 and above

  • Students over 18

  • Informal and formal workers

  • Unemployed persons

  • Self-employed individuals

  • Civil servants and retirees

How to Register for SHA in Kenya (Step-by-Step)

Option 1: Online via SHA Portal

  1. Visit the SHA website: https://www.sha.go.ke

  2. Click on “Register” or “Create Account.”

  3. Enter your ID Number, Phone Number and Email Address.

  4. Create a secure password.

  5. Fill in your personal details: Date of Birth, County, Employer (if any), income range.

  6. Upload any required documents (e.g. National ID).

  7. Click Submit.

  8. You’ll receive a confirmation SMS and email with your SHA number.

Option 2: Using USSD (For Feature Phones)

  1. Dial *147# on your mobile phone.

  2. Select “SHA Registration” from the menu.

  3. Follow prompts to enter ID and confirm details.

  4. You’ll receive a confirmation SMS with your SHA number.

Note: You need a registered Safaricom, Airtel or Telkom line in your name for this method.

Option 3: Visit a Huduma Centre

  1. Carry your National ID.

  2. Ask for SHA Registration services.

  3. An officer will assist you with account creation and guide you on contributions.

How to Pay SHA Contributions

SHA will determine contribution amounts based on your income bracket. Payment methods are:* M-PESA PayBill (SHA Paybill to be confirmed, likely under the Ministry of Health)

  • Bank Transfer to SHA-designated accounts

  • Employer deductions for salaried workers

How to Check If You’re Registered or Active

You can check your SHA registration status through:

SHA Portal

  1. Log in to: https://www.sha.go.ke

  2. Click Dashboard > My Status

  3. You’ll see:

    • Registration status

    • Contributions made

    • Active or inactive coverage

USSD

  1. Dial *147#

  2. Choose “Check SHA Status”

  3. You’ll receive an SMS confirmation of your current coverage.

FAQs About SHA Registration

Q: Is NHIF still valid in 2025?
A: No. NHIF has been phased out. All services have moved to SHA under the Social Health Insurance Act.

Q: Do I need to re-register if I was in NHIF?
A: Yes. SHA requires fresh registration, even if you had NHIF before.

Q: How often do I need to contribute?
A: Monthly, unless you’re categorized under special cases (e.g. unemployed dependents, government-sponsored).