
Reversing M-Pesa transactions can be a bit of a challenge, but don't worry, I've got you covered.
According to M-Pesa's terms and conditions, a reversal can only be initiated if the recipient has not yet cashed out the transaction.
You have up to 140 days to request a reversal, but it's essential to act quickly to avoid any potential issues.
To initiate a reversal, you'll need to visit an M-Pesa agent with your ID and the transaction details.
Understanding Reversals
M-Pesa reversals aren't always a guarantee. The success rate depends on several factors, including the type of transaction and how quickly you initiate the reversal process.
For person-to-person transactions, reversal is generally easier, but if you're trying to reverse payments to businesses, like Paybill or till numbers, you might need to contact Safaricom's customer care.
The sooner you act after realizing the error, the higher the chances of a successful reversal. This is because processing a reversal can take up to 72 hours.
Are Reversals Possible?

Reversals are possible, but not always guaranteed. The success rate depends on several factors.
Transaction type plays a significant role in reversal success. Reversing person-to-person transfers is generally easier than reversing payments made to businesses.
The sooner you initiate the reversal process, the higher the chances of success. Time since transaction is a critical factor in reversal success.
Here's a quick summary of what you need to know:
The sooner you act after realizing the error, the higher the chances of a successful reversal.
Tips for Successful Deals
Act quickly to improve your chances of successfully reversing a deal. The sooner you initiate the reversal, the better.
Having the necessary information handy is crucial. Ensure you have the recipient's phone number, the transaction code, and the amount sent, as you'll need this information when contacting customer care or filling out a reversal form.
Reversals can take up to 72 hours, so keep an eye on your messages for updates from the "Reversal" header. Follow up regularly to track the status of your reversal.
Identifying and Preventing Mistakes

You can avoid sending money to the wrong person by using Safaricom's Hakikisha service, which allows you to confirm the recipient's name or number before the transaction is processed.
Hakikisha is available for all M-Pesa transactions, including sending money to individuals, depositing or withdrawing money at M-Pesa agents, paybill transactions, and Lipa na M-Pesa (merchant transactions).
The Hakikisha service can be a lifesaver, especially for big transactions or when sending money to someone you've never met before. By taking a moment to verify the details, you can avoid the hassle of reversing a mistaken transaction.
To initiate a reversal, you can use one of the five main options available, including forwarding the M-Pesa confirmation message, using the M-Pesa App, or chatting with Zuri, Safaricom's chatbot on WhatsApp.
Here are the steps to follow if you've sent money to the wrong number:
- Forward the M-Pesa confirmation message to 456.
- Or, log in to your M-Pesa App and navigate to the “Transactions” section.
- Find the transaction you want to reverse and tap on the “Reverse Transaction” icon or option.
- Provide a brief reason for the reversal and submit the request.
Remember, you can also use the mySafaricom App or Safaricom's customer care for assistance if the above methods don't work.
Receiver Can Initiate Procedure

If you've received money from the wrong sender, you can initiate a reversal of the transaction.
The receiver can initiate a reversal by dialing *150*00# and selecting "My account" (Self Service), then "self-reversal", and finally "Reverse Transaction" (wrongly received fund).
You'll need to enter the M-Pesa receipt number of the transaction you want to reverse or choose from the last three transactions.
The funds will be reversed accordingly once you confirm the transaction.
It's essential to note that you must use the same number that was used to receive the wrong funds to initiate the reversal.
Here's a step-by-step guide to initiate a reversal:
- Dial *150*00#
- Select “My account” (Self Service)
- Select “self-reversal”
- Select “Reverse Transaction” (wrongly received fund)
- Enter the M-Pesa receipt number you want to reverse or choose from the last three transactions
- Confirm the transaction
Transaction Process
To reverse an M-Pesa transaction, you can request a cash reversal service, which is designed to help customers who have lost money due to incorrect mobile phone numbers.
You can initiate a reversal by sending the transaction message to 456, a simple and straightforward process that can help you recover your lost funds.
Alternatively, you can use the M-Pesa app, chat with Zuri, or access the mySafaricom App to request a reversal, giving you multiple options to choose from.
How to Do a Transaction

To do a transaction, simply enter the wrong mobile phone number when sending money, and you'll lose cash. This is a common issue many Safaricom customers have experienced.
You can request a reverse transaction by sending the transaction message to 456.
Can I Send Airtime?
You can send airtime to M-Pesa, but the process requires immediate contact with the customer care desk. Use the telephone number 100 (free) or +254 722 002100 (chargeable) to initiate the transaction.
To send airtime, you'll need to contact customer care, and it's essential to act quickly to complete the process. If you're having trouble, you can also reach out to the official Twitter or Facebook account for assistance.
Reversing airtime to M-Pesa is possible, and it's a good option if you need to send credit to someone's account. To reverse airtime, contact customer care immediately using the provided phone numbers or social media channels.
Reversing airtime may be necessary if you've sent credit to the wrong person or made an error in the transaction. Contact customer care to initiate the reversal process and resolve the issue.
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Reversal via SMS

Reversal via SMS is a convenient way to reverse a wrong M-Pesa transaction. You can initiate a reversal by forwarding the M-Pesa confirmation message to 456.
The confirmation message contains all the necessary details for initiating a reversal. You can forward the message by copying and pasting it into a new message on your messaging app and sending it to 456.
You will receive a response from "Reversal" confirming that your request has been initiated. The reversal process typically takes up to 2 hours.
Here are the steps to reverse a wrong M-Pesa transaction via SMS:
- Forward the M-Pesa confirmation message to 456.
- Await a response from "Reversal" confirming that your request has been initiated.
How to Send Money Via SMS
To send money via SMS, you'll need to know the right steps. You can request a reversal via SMS by following these steps.
First, you need to open the message showing the erroneous transaction and copy it. Ensure you copy the entire message.
Next, start a new conversation/message on your messages app.
Paste the copied message and send it to 456. You'll receive a response indicating the request for a reversal has been started and that an update will be shared within the next 120 minutes.
To track the status of your request, be sure to check your messages frequently.
Here's an interesting read: How to Send Money to Equity from Mpesa
Reversing via SMS

Reversing via SMS is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few simple steps. You'll need to forward the M-Pesa confirmation message to 456.
The confirmation message contains all the necessary details for initiating a reversal, so make sure to forward the entire message. You'll receive a response from "Reversal" confirming that your request has been initiated.
The reversal process typically takes up to 2 hours, so be patient and keep an eye on your messages for updates. You can also check the status of your request by keeping an eye on your messages frequently.
Here's a step-by-step guide to reversing via SMS:
- Forward the M-Pesa confirmation message to 456
- Await a response from "Reversal" confirming that your request has been initiated
- Wait for up to 2 hours for the reversal to be completed
Special Cases
If you're trying to reverse a M-Pesa transaction that's been processed, you're out of luck. Once a transaction is processed, it can't be reversed.
You can't reverse a transaction if it's been more than 24 hours old. If you try to reverse a transaction outside of this timeframe, your request will be denied.

If you're trying to reverse a transaction that was made to a Safaricom paybill number, the process is a bit different. You'll need to contact Safaricom directly to request a reversal.
Reversals are only applicable to transactions made via M-Pesa, not those made using other payment methods like credit cards or bank transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reverse money sent to the wrong number?
To reverse a money transfer sent to the wrong M-Pesa number, send a message to 456 with the @safaricomplc_ handle. This will initiate a refund to your M-Pesa account.
What happens when a recipient declines an M-PESA reversal?
When a recipient declines an M-PESA reversal, the funds remain with the recipient. The sender and recipient will then be contacted by Safaricom to discuss the issue further
Is there a time limit for M-PESA reversal?
Reversals are typically completed within 24 hours, but may take longer depending on the transaction circumstances. Time frames for reversal completion vary based on approval and processing timelines.
Sources
- https://hexdocs.pm/ex_pesa/ExPesa.Mpesa.Reversal.html
- https://protechuganda.com/how-to-reverse-m-pesa-transaction-guide/
- https://mabumbe.com/how-to-reverse-mpesa/
- https://www.tuko.co.ke/260651-how-reverse-mpesa-transaction.html
- https://savanisbookshop.com/blog/how-to-reverse-an-m-pesa-transaction-a-step-by-step-guide
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