In Kenya’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (Saccos) are at the forefront of promoting financial inclusion, offering affordable credit, and fostering a robust savings culture. Among these, County Sacco Society Ltd stands out as a trusted, member-focused institution headquartered in Runyenjes, Embu County. With its innovative mobile banking platform, accessible via the *USSD code 879# and Paybill number 798620, County Sacco empowers members to manage their finances anytime, anywhere. This comprehensive guide explores County Sacco’s mobile banking services, including how to use the USSD platform, Paybill number, registration process, and the benefits of banking on the go. This article is your one-stop resource for mastering County Sacco’s digital services.
Introduction to County Sacco Society Ltd
Established to drive economic empowerment, County Sacco Society Ltd is a deposit-taking Sacco regulated by the Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA). With a network of six branches across Embu and Tharaka-Nithi counties, the Sacco serves a diverse membership base, including farmers, salaried professionals, entrepreneurs, and community groups. County Sacco’s mobile banking platform, accessible via USSD *879# and Paybill 798620, has revolutionized how members interact with their accounts, offering convenience, security, and efficiency. In a country where Saccos manage over KSh 1.2 trillion in assets and serve more than 6 million members (SASRA, 2023), County Sacco’s digital innovations align with Kenya’s Vision 2030 goal of financial inclusion.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of County Sacco’s mobile banking services, step-by-step guides for using the USSD and Paybill systems, membership requirements, and tips for secure transactions. Whether you’re a new member or a seasoned user, this guide will help you navigate County Sacco’s digital tools to achieve your financial goals.
Understanding County Sacco’s Mobile Banking Platform
County Sacco’s mobile banking platform is designed to bring financial services to your fingertips. By dialing USSD *879# or using Paybill 798620, members can perform a wide range of transactions without visiting a branch. The platform is user-friendly, secure, and accessible on both smartphones and basic feature phones, making it ideal for rural and urban members alike. Below are the key features available on the mobile banking menu:
- Accounts to M-Pesa: Transfer funds from your County Sacco account to an M-Pesa account.
- Loans: Apply for or repay loans, including mobile advances, with ease.
- Balance Enquiry: Check your savings or loan balances instantly.
- Mini Statements: View recent transactions to track your account activity.
- Change PIN: Update your PIN for enhanced security.
- Deposits: Fund your savings, loan, or investment accounts via M-Pesa.
- Airtime Purchase: Buy airtime for yourself or others directly from your account.
- Stop ATM: Deactivate your ATM card in case of loss or theft.
- Guarantorship: Check loans you’ve guaranteed or identify your guarantors.
These features make County Sacco’s mobile banking platform a powerful tool for financial management, competing with leading Saccos like Stima Sacco and Bingwa Sacco, which also leverage USSD and Paybill systems for member convenience.
How to Register for County Sacco Mobile Banking
To access County Sacco’s mobile banking services, you must first register at one of their branches. The process is straightforward and ensures your account is linked to your mobile number for secure transactions. Follow these steps to get started:
- Visit a County Sacco Branch: Head to any of the six branches (Runyenjes Head Office, Runyenjes Branch, Kanja, Miandari, Karurumo, or Chuka) with your National ID and membership details.
- Complete the Mobile Banking Application Form: Request the M-Banking application form from a branch officer. Provide your registered mobile number and other required details.
- Set a Four-Digit PIN: Upon successful registration, you’ll receive a temporary PIN via SMS. Dial *USSD 879# and follow the prompts to set a new four-digit PIN.
- Log In to Access Services: Use your new PIN to log in to the USSD platform and explore the main menu options.
Note: Ensure your registered mobile number is active and linked to M-Pesa for seamless transactions. Registration is free, but standard Safaricom USSD charges (approximately KSh 10 per session) may apply.
Using County Sacco’s USSD Code *879#
The USSD code *879# is the gateway to County Sacco’s mobile banking services. Accessible on any mobile phone, it allows members to perform transactions without internet access, making it ideal for rural members in Embu and Tharaka-Nithi. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using the USSD platform:
Accessing the Main Menu
- Dial USSD *879# on your registered mobile number.
- Enter your four-digit PIN set during registration.
- On successful login, the main menu will display options like Accounts to M-Pesa, Loans, Balance Enquiry, and more.
Key Transactions
- Transferring Funds to M-Pesa:
- Select “Accounts to M-Pesa” from the main menu.
- Choose the account to withdraw from (e.g., Ordinary Savings, Corporate, or Micro-Enterprise).
- Specify the destination (your M-Pesa number, another number, Paybill, or Till).
- Enter the amount and confirm with your PIN.
- Applying for or Repaying Loans:
- Select “Loans” and choose whether to borrow or repay.
- For borrowing, select a loan product (e.g., Mobile Advance) and enter the desired amount.
- For repayment, choose the loan and source of funds (e.g., Prime account or M-Pesa).
- Checking Balances and Statements:
- Select “Balance Enquiry” to view your savings or loan balance.
- Choose “Mini Statements” to see recent transactions.
- Depositing Funds:
- Select “Deposits” and choose the product (Savings, Loans, or Investment).
- Confirm the amount and account to withdraw from (e.g., M-Pesa).
- Purchasing Airtime:
- Select “Airtime Purchase” and enter the phone number and amount.
- Confirm the transaction with your PIN.
- Managing Guarantorship:
- Select “Guarantorship” to check loans you’ve guaranteed or identify your guarantors.
- Stopping ATM Services:
- Choose “Stop ATM” to deactivate your card if lost or stolen.
- Changing Your PIN:
- Select “Change PIN,” enter a new four-digit PIN, and confirm.
Pro Tip: Always confirm transaction details before submitting to avoid errors. For assistance, contact County Sacco at 0700290241 or info@countysacco.com.
Using County Sacco’s Paybill Number 798620
The Paybill number 798620 enables members to deposit funds into their County Sacco accounts via M-Pesa, enhancing convenience for savings and loan repayments. Here’s how to use it:
- Access M-Pesa:
- Go to the M-Pesa menu on your phone and select “Lipa na M-Pesa.”
- Choose “Paybill.”
- Enter Paybill Details:
- Business Number: 798620.
- Account Number: Your County Sacco membership number or a specific code (e.g., “SAV” for savings, “LOAN” for loan repayment, followed by your ID number).
- Enter Amount and Confirm:
- Input the amount to deposit and enter your M-Pesa PIN.
- Confirm the transaction and wait for a confirmation SMS.
Example: To deposit KSh 5,000 to your savings account, use Paybill 798620, account number “SAV123456” (where 123456 is your membership number), and enter KSh 5,000.
Benefits of Paybill 798620:
- Instant Deposits: Funds reflect in your account immediately.
- No Hidden Fees: Transparent transactions with no additional charges from County Sacco.
- Flexibility: Deposit to savings, loans, or investment accounts.
Note: Ensure your membership number is correct to avoid misdirected funds. Contact the Sacco if funds don’t reflect within 24 hours.
Membership Requirements for County Sacco
To use County Sacco’s mobile banking services, you must first become a member. The Sacco welcomes individuals, groups, and corporates, with straightforward requirements:
Individual Membership
- Completed membership application form (available at branches or online).
- Copy of National ID or valid Kenyan passport.
- KRA PIN certificate.
- One passport-sized photograph.
- Membership fee (typically KSh 1,000–2,000, contact the Sacco for exact amount).
- Minimum share capital contribution (KSh 2,000–5,000, non-refundable).
Group Membership
- Registration certificate for the group or chama.
- Group constitution and meeting minutes resolving to join County Sacco.
- IDs and KRA PINs of authorized signatories.
- Membership fee and share capital.
Corporate Membership
- Certificate of incorporation.
- Memorandum and articles of association.
- Board resolution to join the Sacco.
- KRA corporate PIN.
- IDs and KRA PINs of signatories.
Visit any County Sacco branch (Runyenjes, Kanja, Miandari, Karurumo, or Chuka) or contact 0700290241 or info@countysacco.com to join.
Benefits of County Sacco’s Mobile Banking
County Sacco’s mobile banking platform offers numerous advantages, making it a top choice for members:
- Convenience: Access services 24/7 without visiting a branch.
- Accessibility: USSD *879# works on any phone, ideal for rural members without smartphones.
- Security: PIN-protected transactions and options to stop ATM services enhance safety.
- Speed: Instant transfers, loan applications, and balance checks save time.
- Cost-Effective: Low or no transaction fees compared to commercial banks.
- Financial Inclusion: Empowers underserved communities in Embu and Tharaka-Nithi.
Security Tips for Using USSD and Paybill
To ensure safe transactions, follow these best practices:
- Protect Your PIN: Never share your four-digit PIN with anyone, including Sacco staff.
- Verify Details: Double-check account numbers and amounts before confirming transactions.
- Use a Secure Phone: Avoid using public or shared devices for USSD transactions.
- Monitor Your Account: Regularly check mini statements to detect unauthorized activity.
- Report Issues Immediately: Contact County Sacco at 0700290241 if you suspect fraud or encounter errors.
- Stop ATM Promptly: Use the “Stop ATM” feature if your card is lost or stolen.
County Sacco’s Role in Kenya’s Financial Ecosystem
Saccos are a cornerstone of Kenya’s financial sector, contributing over KSh 1.2 trillion in assets and serving millions of members (SASRA, 2023). County Sacco plays a vital role in this ecosystem by offering affordable financial solutions in Embu and Tharaka-Nithi, where agriculture drives 70% of the local economy (Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, 2023). Its mobile banking platform aligns with Kenya’s digital transformation goals, competing with fintech solutions like Tala while maintaining a member-centric approach.
By integrating with M-Pesa and offering USSD services, County Sacco bridges the gap between traditional banking and modern technology, making financial services accessible to rural farmers, small business owners, and salaried professionals. Its focus on low-interest loans (as low as 1% per month) and high-yield savings accounts positions it as a leader in financial empowerment.
Challenges and Opportunities for County Sacco’s Mobile Banking
While County Sacco’s mobile banking platform is robust, it faces challenges:
- Digital Competition: Mobile lenders like Tala and Branch offer instant loans, attracting younger members. County Sacco must enhance its mobile advance offerings to compete.
- Network Reliability: Safaricom’s USSD platform occasionally faces downtime, affecting accessibility.
- Financial Literacy: Some members may struggle to navigate USSD menus, necessitating training.
However, opportunities abound:
- Expanded Services: Adding features like bill payments or insurance premium payments could enhance the platform.
- Partnerships: Collaborating with fintech firms or telcos could improve service delivery.
- Youth Engagement: Targeting younger members with tailored mobile loan products could drive growth.
Tips for Maximizing County Sacco’s Mobile Banking
To make the most of County Sacco’s USSD and Paybill services, consider these tips:
- Save the USSD Code: Bookmark *879# in your phone for quick access.
- Use Paybill Regularly: Deposit small amounts frequently to build your savings and loan eligibility.
- Monitor Loan Limits: Check your loan eligibility via USSD to plan borrowing.
- Leverage Mini Statements: Track your spending and savings to stay financially disciplined.
- Attend Financial Literacy Workshops: County Sacco offers training to help you master mobile banking.
County Sacco Society Ltd’s mobile banking platform, accessible via USSD *879# and Paybill 798620, is a game-changer for members seeking convenient, secure, and affordable financial services. From transferring funds to M-Pesa to applying for loans and checking balances, the platform empowers members in Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, and beyond to manage their finances on the go. With a user-friendly interface, seamless M-Pesa integration, and a commitment to financial inclusion, County Sacco is a leader in Kenya’s cooperative sector. Whether you’re saving for the future, funding a business, or addressing urgent needs, County Sacco’s mobile banking tools are designed to help you succeed.
To get started, visit a County Sacco branch to register, dial USSD *879#, or use Paybill 798620 for deposits. For inquiries, contact 0700290241 or info@countysacco.com. Join County Sacco today and unlock the power of mobile banking!
