The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has announced the release of several loan batches for the month of October 2024. This move comes as a relief to thousands of Kenyan students who rely on these funds to support their education. Below is a list of the batch numbers that have been paid this month, as well as additional information on how to check your loan disbursement status and what to do if your batch has not been paid.
Paid HELB Batch Numbers for October 2024
The following batch numbers have been processed and paid by HELB as of October 2024:
- Batch 5793
- Batch 5796
- Batch 5794
- Batch 5804
- Batch 5790
- Batch 5860
- Batch 5800
Students who belong to any of the above batches should check their bank accounts for disbursement. If you haven’t received the funds yet, it may take a few days for the money to reflect, depending on your bank.
How to Check Your HELB Loan Status
If you’re unsure whether your batch has been paid or you want to confirm your loan disbursement status, here are a few steps to follow:
- Login to the HELB Portal: Visit the official HELB website (www.helb.co.ke) and log in to your student portal using your ID number and password.
- Navigate to the Loan Disbursement Section: Once logged in, click on the “Loan Disbursement” tab, where you can view the status of your loan, including batch numbers and payment history.
- Check Your Bank Account: Even if the disbursement is marked as “Paid” on the HELB portal, it might take some time for the funds to reflect in your bank account due to processing delays by different banks.
What to Do if Your Batch Has Not Been Paid
If your batch number does not appear in the list above, don’t panic. HELB disburses funds in phases, and more batches are expected to be paid in the coming weeks. Here’s what you can do:
- Keep Checking the HELB Portal: New batches are frequently uploaded to the portal. Regularly check for updates to know when your batch is paid.
- Contact HELB Support: If you’re experiencing issues or have concerns about your loan, you can reach out to HELB through their customer care channels via phone (020 2278000) or email (contactcentre@helb.co.ke).
- Follow HELB on Social Media: HELB provides timely updates on its official social media platforms such as Twitter (@HELBpage) and Facebook (HELB), so be sure to follow them for the latest announcements.
HELB Loan Utilization Tips
Once your HELB loan is disbursed, it’s important to use it wisely to avoid future financial challenges. Here are a few tips on how to make the most of your loan:
- Prioritize Tuition Fees: Ensure your tuition fees are covered first before spending on other needs.
- Create a Budget: Allocate funds for essential expenses such as rent, food, and study materials.
- Save for Emergencies: Set aside a small portion of your loan for unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or urgent travel.
- Avoid Luxuries: While it’s tempting to splurge, remember that the loan needs to be repaid after graduation, so only spend on necessities.
HELB Repayment and Penalties
Once you complete your studies and secure employment, it’s important to start repaying your HELB loan. Failure to do so could result in penalties. In 2024, the penalty for late repayment stands at Ksh 5,000 per month, which can accumulate quickly. Here’s how you can avoid falling into arrears:
- Register with HELB: Upon graduation, ensure you’re registered in the HELB repayment system.
- Set Up Automatic Deductions: If you’re employed, you can arrange with your employer or bank to have your loan repayments automatically deducted from your salary.
- Take Advantage of HELB Discounts: HELB often provides repayment discounts for those who clear their loans early, so keep an eye out for these offers.
For students eagerly awaiting their HELB loans, the good news is that the batches mentioned above have been paid for October 2024. If your batch hasn’t been paid yet, be patient as more disbursements are likely to follow. Ensure you’re using your loan prudently and keep checking for updates on the HELB portal. If you encounter any issues, HELB’s support system is always available to assist.
Stay updated with HELB’s latest news to avoid missing out on crucial information regarding your loan disbursement and repayment.
