If you have been using Fuliza M-PESA but want to stop borrowing through the service, you can opt out of Fuliza from your Safaricom line.
Fuliza is an overdraft facility that allows eligible M-PESA customers to complete transactions when they do not have enough money in their M-PESA wallet. However, some users choose to leave the service because they want to avoid borrowing, manage their spending more carefully or stop automatically relying on an overdraft.
The good news is that Safaricom provides an opt-out function for Fuliza through its M-PESA channels. Safaricom’s Fuliza terms specifically define an “Opt-out Function” available through USSD, M-PESA-enabled SIM cards and the Safaricom App.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to opt out of Fuliza in Kenya in 2026.
How to Opt Out of Fuliza Using *234#
The simplest way to deactivate Fuliza is through the M-PESA USSD menu.
Follow these steps:
- Open the phone dialer on your Safaricom line.
- Dial *234#.
- Select the option for Fuliza M-PESA.
- Select Opt Out.
- Follow the instructions displayed on your screen.
- Confirm that you want to opt out.
- Wait for the confirmation message.
The exact menu numbering can change, so focus on the Fuliza M-PESA and Opt Out options rather than relying only on a particular option number.
NCBA’s Fuliza Key Facts document lists the USSD route as *234# → M-PESA Products → Fuliza → Opt Out, provided the customer does not have an outstanding Fuliza facility.
What if the menu looks different?
Safaricom can update its M-PESA menus from time to time. If the options on your phone differ from those listed above, look for:
M-PESA Products → Fuliza → Opt Out
If you cannot find the option, you can also try the M-PESA App or contact Safaricom customer care.
Can You Opt Out of Fuliza If You Still Owe Money?
This is one of the most important things to understand before trying to deactivate Fuliza.
You generally need to clear your outstanding Fuliza facility before opting out.
NCBA’s Fuliza Key Facts document states that customers can opt out through USSD or the MySafaricom App as long as they do not have an outstanding facility.
Therefore, if your Fuliza balance is still outstanding, the opt-out option may not be completed until the amount due has been cleared.
What should you do?
Check your Fuliza balance first.
If you still owe money:
Repay the outstanding Fuliza amount → confirm your balance is cleared → then request to opt out.
This is particularly important if you are trying to completely stop using Fuliza rather than simply stop borrowing temporarily.
How to Opt Out of Fuliza Using the M-PESA App
You can also use the M-PESA App to manage your Fuliza account.
The general process is:
- Open the M-PESA App.
- Log in.
- Go to M-PESA.
- Select Fuliza M-PESA.
- Look for the Opt Out option.
- Follow the instructions.
- Confirm your request.
- Wait for confirmation.
Safaricom’s Fuliza terms recognize an opt-out function through the Safaricom App, while the Fuliza Key Facts document also identifies the app as a route for opting out when there is no outstanding facility.
Because app menus can change after updates, the exact location of the button may vary.
What Happens When You Opt Out of Fuliza?
When you successfully opt out, you will no longer have access to Fuliza as an overdraft facility unless you later become eligible and choose to opt in again.
This means that if you try to complete an M-PESA transaction without enough money in your wallet, you should not expect Fuliza to automatically provide the shortfall.
For people who are trying to control their spending, this can be useful because it removes the temptation to spend money they do not currently have.
Will You Lose Your Fuliza Limit?
You should think carefully before opting out if you may want Fuliza again in the future.
Safaricom has warned that opting out and subsequently rejoining Fuliza can subject a customer to a fresh credit assessment. This means your previous limit is not necessarily guaranteed to return.
A recent report on Safaricom’s explanation noted that a customer who opts out and later rejoins may be treated as a new subscriber for credit-scoring purposes, meaning the new limit could potentially be lower or even KSh 0.
That makes opting out different from simply leaving the service unused.
Example
Suppose your current Fuliza limit is:
KSh 10,000
You decide to opt out because you want to stop borrowing.
Later, you change your mind and opt back in.
You should not assume that your KSh 10,000 limit will automatically return.
Your new eligibility and limit may be determined through a fresh assessment.
This is one of the biggest considerations before opting out.
Why Are Kenyans Opting Out of Fuliza?
There are several reasons why an M-PESA user may decide to leave Fuliza.
1. To stop borrowing money
Fuliza makes it possible to complete certain transactions even when your M-PESA balance is insufficient.
For some people, this convenience can make it easier to borrow repeatedly.
Opting out removes that particular borrowing option.
2. To control spending
If you regularly spend more than you have because Fuliza is available, opting out can create a stronger financial boundary.
Instead of thinking:
“I can Fuliza the difference.”
You have to work within the money actually available in your M-PESA wallet.
3. To avoid Fuliza charges
Fuliza is a credit facility and borrowing comes with applicable charges.
If you frequently use an overdraft and repay it repeatedly, the associated costs can become an important part of your personal budgeting.
Opting out can prevent you from taking new Fuliza advances.
4. To reduce dependence on mobile credit
Some users simply want to stop relying on short-term digital credit.
For them, opting out is less about the Fuliza service itself and more about changing their financial habits.
5. To protect their monthly budget
If your salary or business income comes into M-PESA and a significant portion is used to settle previous borrowing, it can become difficult to manage your available cash.
Removing access to an overdraft may help some users adopt a “spend what you have” approach.
Does Opting Out Cancel an Existing Fuliza Debt?
No.
Opting out should not be confused with debt cancellation.
If you owe Fuliza money, opting out does not erase the outstanding amount.
You remain responsible for settling the amount owed under the applicable Fuliza terms.
The opt-out function is designed to stop or deactivate access to the service; it is not a way of avoiding repayment.
This distinction is important because some people search for “how to opt out of Fuliza without paying.”
There is no legitimate opt-out process that should be interpreted as cancelling an outstanding Fuliza balance.
Can You Opt Out of Fuliza Without Clearing Your Balance?
Generally, no.
The Fuliza Key Facts document states that customers can opt out through USSD or the MySafaricom App provided they do not have an outstanding facility.
If your opt-out request is being rejected, one of the first things you should check is whether you still have an outstanding Fuliza balance.
What If Fuliza Won’t Let You Opt Out?
If you have cleared your balance but the opt-out option is still unavailable, try the following:
Check your Fuliza balance
Make sure there is no outstanding amount or facility that needs to be settled.
Try again through USSD
Dial:
*234#
Then navigate to the Fuliza section and look for the opt-out option.
Use the M-PESA App
Check the Fuliza section of the M-PESA App and see whether the opt-out option is available.
Contact Safaricom
If you have cleared the outstanding amount and still cannot opt out, contact Safaricom customer support or visit a Safaricom retail outlet.
NCBA’s Fuliza documentation directs customers with questions or complaints to Safaricom customer support and lists 100 or 200 for assistance.
Will Opting Out Affect Your M-PESA Account?
Opting out of Fuliza does not mean closing your M-PESA account.
You can continue using M-PESA for services such as:
- Sending money
- Receiving money
- Buying airtime
- Paying bills
- Paying for goods and services
- Withdrawing money
- Other available M-PESA services
You are simply removing access to the Fuliza overdraft facility.
Can You Opt Back Into Fuliza?
You may be able to opt back into Fuliza later if you meet the eligibility requirements.
However, do not assume that your old Fuliza limit will be restored.
Safaricom’s recent warning is particularly important here: opting out and subsequently rejoining can trigger a new credit assessment, and the resulting limit may be different from the previous one.
This means you should consider opting out a deliberate financial decision rather than something to test casually.
Does Opting Out Improve Your Credit Score?
Opting out of Fuliza should not be viewed as a guaranteed way of improving your credit score.
Your credit history can involve multiple factors, and simply deactivating a credit facility does not automatically erase previous borrowing or repayment history.
If you have outstanding obligations, the priority should be to settle them according to the applicable terms.
Should You Opt Out of Fuliza?
There is no single answer for everyone.
Opting out may make sense if:
- You frequently borrow through Fuliza.
- You want to stop spending money you do not have.
- You are trying to reduce your short-term debt.
- You want to improve your personal budgeting habits.
- You no longer need an emergency overdraft.
- You want to avoid the temptation of repeatedly using mobile credit.
On the other hand, someone who relies on Fuliza occasionally for genuine emergencies may decide to keep the facility.
The key is understanding the cost and using credit responsibly.
What You Should Know Before Opting Out
Before you press the final confirmation button, consider these five things:
1. Clear your outstanding Fuliza balance.
You generally cannot complete the opt-out while you have an outstanding facility.
2. Make sure you actually want to leave.
If you rejoin later, your previous limit is not guaranteed.
3. Remember that opting out does not erase debt.
Any amount already owed still needs to be repaid.
4. Consider your emergency needs.
If you frequently depend on Fuliza for urgent expenses, make another emergency plan before opting out.
5. Don’t assume your old limit will return.
A future reactivation can involve a fresh credit assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fuliza Opt Out
What is the Fuliza opt-out code in Kenya?
The Fuliza opt-out process is available through *234#, where customers can navigate to the Fuliza section and select the opt-out option. NCBA’s official Fuliza Key Facts document confirms the USSD route.
How do I unsubscribe from Fuliza?
Dial *234#, select the Fuliza M-PESA option and choose Opt Out, then follow the confirmation instructions.
Can I opt out of Fuliza using the M-PESA App?
Yes. The Fuliza opt-out function is available through the app for eligible customers, subject to the applicable requirements.
Can I opt out of Fuliza if I owe money?
You generally need to clear your outstanding Fuliza facility before completing the opt-out process.
Does opting out cancel my Fuliza debt?
No. Opting out does not cancel an outstanding Fuliza balance.
Will I get my old Fuliza limit back if I opt in again?
Not necessarily. Safaricom has indicated that customers who opt out and later rejoin can undergo a fresh credit assessment, meaning the new limit may be different or could potentially be zero.
Can I use M-PESA after opting out?
Yes. Opting out of Fuliza is not the same as closing your M-PESA account. You can continue using other available M-PESA services.
Is Fuliza automatically activated again?
No. If you have opted out, you should not assume the facility is available again. If you later want to use Fuliza, you would need to meet the applicable eligibility requirements and opt in again.
Final Word
If you’re searching for how to opt out of Fuliza in Kenya, the process is relatively straightforward.
Start by clearing any outstanding Fuliza balance, then use *234# to access the Fuliza menu and select Opt Out. You can also check the Fuliza section of the M-PESA App.
The most important thing to remember is that opting out is not simply a temporary pause. If you later decide to rejoin, Safaricom may subject you to a fresh credit assessment, and your previous Fuliza limit is not guaranteed to return.
For anyone trying to reduce debt or improve financial discipline, opting out can be one practical step toward controlling access to short-term credit.
Before opting out, however, make sure you understand your outstanding balance and the potential consequences of rejoining later.
