Govt Sets 25 Years as Mandatory Age for SHIF Payment
The Kenyan authorities require all individuals in Kenya who are 25 years old to undergo a compulsory deduction for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
This information is in line with the regulations outlined in the Social Health Insurance Act, specifically the Social Health Insurance (General) Regulations, 2024.
SHIF, the successor to the National Health Insurance Fund, requires every individual aged 25 to contribute a compulsory minimum amount of Ksh300.
“A person who has attained the age of twenty-five years and has no income of his or her own or is living with the contributor shall be treated as a household separate from the contributor and shall pay Ksh300 per month,” the regulations read in part.
Individuals who are 25 years old and receive a salary will experience a 2.75 percent reduction in their total income.
Kenyans below the age of 25 who are without employment will have the opportunity to be included as dependents on their parents’ beneficiary lists.
For a parent to be included as a beneficiary, they need to furnish details about their children, which encompass complete names, birthdates, birthplaces, and the gender of the beneficiary.
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Additional information required for the beneficiary includes a passport photograph, contact details, any existing disabilities, and any other details deemed necessary by the government.
Once granted approval, the recipient will be able to avail the benefits provided by their parent’s coverage.
Kenyans without employment who cannot afford the Ksh300 will have the opportunity to seek a loan for the same amount.
The Ministry of Health plans to collaborate with financial entities such as cooperatives, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development, and other financial institutions. The objective is to provide loans to young individuals who have reached the required age for mandatory deductions but are currently unemployed.
Upon securing formal employment, their salaries will promptly undergo deductions to repay loans and fulfill subsequent SHIF contributions.
Govt Sets 25 Years as Mandatory Age for SHIF Payment
