Sending money between Airtel Money users is free, which is why many people keep an Airtel wallet. Taking cash out is a different story. Agent withdrawals carry a fee, and knowing the bands helps you avoid paying more than you need to.
Current withdrawal fees
These are the charges Airtel Kenya publishes for withdrawing at an Airtel Money agent.
| Amount (KSh) | Fee (KSh) |
|---|---|
| 50 to 100 | 11 |
| 101 to 2,500 | 29 |
| 2,501 to 3,500 | 52 |
| 3,501 to 5,000 | 69 |
| 5,001 to 7,500 | 87 |
| 7,501 to 10,000 | 115 |
| 10,001 to 15,000 | 167 |
| 15,001 to 20,000 | 185 |
| 20,001 to 35,000 | 197 |
| 35,001 to 50,000 | 278 |
| 50,001 to 250,000 | 309 |
Airtel’s table does not list a withdrawal for amounts below KSh 50.
Mobile money charges calculatorFees as published by Safaricom and Airtel Kenya. Confirm on your screen before entering your PIN.
How to withdraw at an agent
- Find an Airtel Money agent and give them your amount. They will give you their agent number.
- Dial *334# and choose Withdraw Cash.
- Enter the agent number, the amount and your PIN.
- Wait for both you and the agent to get the confirmation SMS before you take the cash.
You need your original National ID or Kenyan passport to transact at an Airtel Money agent. A photocopy or a photo on your phone will not do.
How to pay less
- Mind the band edges. Withdrawing KSh 2,500 costs KSh 29, but KSh 2,501 costs KSh 52. A few shillings over a band can nearly double the fee.
- Withdraw once instead of many times. Two withdrawals of KSh 2,000 cost KSh 58, while one withdrawal of KSh 4,000 costs KSh 69.
- Pay directly where you can. If the shop or person accepts Airtel Money, sending is free and you skip the withdrawal fee entirely.
Withdrawal fees are the same as M-Pesa’s at every band. Our M-Pesa vs Airtel Money comparison covers the rest of the differences.
