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How to Apply for M-KOPA Cash Loans via SMS in Kenya

M-KOPA has expanded its lending services in Kenya with a new M-KOPA Cash Loan that is accessible to everyone with a valid Kenyan ID—not just existing M-KOPA device customers. This marks a major shift from M-KOPA’s earlier model, which mainly served customers already repaying phones or solar products.

Below is a complete, step-by-step guide on how to apply for M-KOPA Cash Loans via SMS, how it works, eligibility, disbursement, and how it compares with other M-KOPA loan products such as SolaPesa and phones on loan.

M-Kopa Cash Loans via SMS
M-Kopa Cash Loans Kenya 

Read Also; How to apply for loans via Sulu Cash Loan App Kenya 

What Is the New M-KOPA Cash Loan?

The M-KOPA Cash Loan is a short-term mobile loan offered by M-KOPA that allows eligible Kenyans to borrow from KSh 7,000 and above, with funds sent directly to M-Pesa.

Unlike SolaPesa—which is limited to existing M-KOPA customers—this new product is designed to be open to all Kenyans, provided you have a valid national ID and meet M-KOPA’s internal eligibility checks.

How to Apply for M-KOPA Cash Loans via SMS

M-KOPA has made the application process extremely simple. There is no app download and no USSD code required.

Step-by-Step Application Process

  1. Open your SMS app on your phone

  2. Create a new message

  3. Type your National ID number

  4. Send the SMS to 40490

That’s it.

What Happens After Sending the SMS?

  • M-KOPA’s loan team reviews your eligibility

  • They assess factors such as mobile usage, credit behaviour, and internal risk checks

  • You will receive an SMS response informing you whether:

    • Your loan is approved, or

    • You are not eligible at the moment

Loan Disbursement

  • Approved loans are sent directly to your M-Pesa account

  • Disbursement usually happens within a short time after approval

Who Can Apply for M-KOPA Cash Loans?

You can apply if you:

  • Are a Kenyan citizen

  • Have a valid National ID

  • Can send an SMS from your mobile phone

  • Use M-Pesa for receiving funds

👉 No prior M-KOPA account or device loan is required for this new cash loan product.

Other M-KOPA Loan Products Explained

M-KOPA now offers multiple financing options, each designed for different needs. Below is a clear explanation of the main products.

1. M-KOPA Cash Loans (New – Open to Everyone)

  • Cash loans starting from KSh 7,000

  • Applied via SMS to 40490

  • Available to all Kenyans with valid ID

  • Funds sent via M-Pesa

Best for: emergencies, business needs, school fees, and personal expenses.

2. SolaPesa (Cash Loans for Existing Customers)

SolaPesa is a cash advance product offered only to customers already using M-KOPA products such as solar systems or phones.

  • Maximum loan limit: Up to KSh 7,000

  • Only for existing M-KOPA customers

  • Loan limit grows with good repayment history

  • Disbursed via M-Pesa

Best for: loyal M-KOPA customers needing small, short-term cash.

3. M-KOPA Phones on Loan

M-KOPA is widely known for offering smartphones on flexible repayment plans.

  • Customers pay a small deposit

  • Daily or weekly repayments via M-Pesa

  • Ownership after completing payments

  • Includes smartphones from popular brands

Best for: customers who want a smartphone without paying full price upfront.

Differences Between M-KOPA Loan Services

FeatureM-KOPA Cash LoanSolaPesaPhones on Loan
TypeCash loanCash loanDevice financing
Who Can ApplyAll Kenyans with valid IDExisting M-KOPA customers onlyNew & existing customers
Minimum AmountFrom KSh 7,000VariesDevice value
Maximum AmountDepends on eligibilityUp to KSh 7,000Depends on phone model
Application MethodSMS to 40490M-KOPA systemM-KOPA agents/app
DisbursementM-PesaM-PesaPhone issued
Requires Existing AccountNoYesNo

Why the New M-KOPA Cash Loan Is Important

  • Expands access to credit beyond device customers

  • No smartphone or app required

  • Simple SMS-based application

  • Ideal for users in both urban and rural areas

This makes M-KOPA a strong alternative to many instant loan apps that require app installations and extensive permissions.

M-KOPA Customer Support Contacts

If you need help or clarification regarding M-KOPA Cash Loans, SolaPesa, or device financing, you can reach M-KOPA through their official customer support channels, including:

  • Customer Care Email: care@m-kopa.com

  • Official M-KOPA support channels and service centres across Kenya

  • In-product and SMS support responses after application

👉 Always ensure you are communicating through official M-KOPA channels to avoid scams.

Conclusion 

The introduction of M-KOPA Cash Loans via SMS is a major milestone in Kenya’s digital lending space. By allowing any Kenyan with a valid ID to apply—without apps or prior accounts—M-KOPA has made access to credit more inclusive than ever.

If you’re looking for a simple, SMS-based loan with M-Pesa disbursement, the new M-KOPA Cash Loan is worth considering. Existing customers can still benefit from SolaPesa, while device financing remains ideal for long-term value.

As always, borrow responsibly and confirm loan terms before accepting any offer.

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Location: Kenya

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