📖 In this guide
Have excess airtime on your Safaricom or Airtel line that you would rather have as cash in your M‑PESA? Converting airtime to M‑PESA is possible through authorised reseller platforms, but you must be careful to avoid scams. This guide explains how the process works, what rates to expect, and how to stay safe.
⚙️ How Airtime to Cash Conversion Works
The conversion is essentially selling your airtime to a reseller. You transfer a specific amount of airtime to their number (via Sambaza or Okoa transfer), and they send you a percentage of that value back via M‑PESA. Most platforms offer between 70% and 85% of the airtime value, depending on volume and demand.
📊 Typical Conversion Rates (May 2026)
| Airtime Amount | Typical Cash Payout | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Ksh 20 | Ksh 14 – 16 | 70–80% |
| Ksh 50 | Ksh 35 – 42 | 70–84% |
| Ksh 100 | Ksh 75 – 85 | 75–85% |
| Ksh 500 | Ksh 400 – 440 | 80–88% |
Larger amounts often attract better rates because resellers can resell them quickly.
🛒 Step‑by‑Step to Convert Airtime Safely
- Choose a reputable platform: Look for one with positive reviews, a working website, and active customer support (e.g., WhatsApp).
- Initiate conversion request: Visit their website or send a message via WhatsApp with the amount you want to convert.
- Receive till number or payment instructions: Most platforms will ask you to send the airtime to a specific phone number via Sambaza (Safaricom) or direct transfer (Airtel).
- Send airtime: Use the network’s transfer service. Keep the SMS confirmation.
- Provide transaction details: Share the airtime transfer SMS text with the platform’s support.
- Receive M‑PESA payment: Within minutes (or up to a few hours) you should receive cash to your M‑PESA number.
🏢 Platforms That Offer Airtime to Cash
Some reseller platforms that also sell bundles occasionally offer airtime conversion as a side service. They often use the same till number (e.g., 509947) to process payouts. However, not all platforms have this feature – confirm before sending any airtime.
If you regularly have excess airtime, you may consider becoming a reseller yourself – many platforms buy airtime in bulk from individual users to resell at a profit.
🚨 Common Scams to Avoid
- No website or verifiable contact: If someone asks you to send airtime “on trust”, refuse.
- Unrealistic rates: If a platform promises 95%+ conversion, it’s likely a scam. Real rates rarely exceed 85%.
- Requests for M‑PESA PIN: Never share your PIN, even with a platform.
- No transaction proof: Legit platforms will ask for the transfer SMS and keep records.
For more information on how to safely buy and sell airtime, read our guide on starting an airtime reselling business.
Verified Merchant – Till 509947
Secure M‑PESA STK Push payments. Independent reseller platform – not affiliated with Safaricom or Airtel.
Experts in mobile money and telecom reselling. Helping you convert airtime safely.
Last reviewed: 26 May 2026