The Social Health Authority (SHA) has issued a stern reminder to all employers across Kenya to adhere strictly to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) contribution regulations outlined in the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023.
According to a notice released on July 29, employers are required to register with SHA through the official Employer Portal and obtain an Employer SHA Number if they have not done so already. This registration must include all employees and their eligible dependants, such as spouses and children.
Employers must deduct a monthly SHIF contribution equivalent to 2.75% of each employee's gross salary, with a minimum payment of KSh 300. These contributions must be remitted to the designated SHIF accounts by the 9th day of the following month.
Key Employer Obligations
- Register with SHA and obtain an Employer SHA Number.
- Enroll all employees and eligible dependants.
- Deduct and remit monthly SHIF contributions on time.
- Maintain accurate payroll and remittance records.
- Reflect SHIF deductions on employee payslips.
- Inform employees about their rights and responsibilities under the Act.
The SHA has warned that failure to comply, including delays in remittance, will attract penalties amounting to 2% of the outstanding contributions for each month unpaid. Non-compliance is also considered a criminal offense under the Act, potentially leading to prosecution.
Employers with outstanding registrations, unpaid contributions, or incomplete employee records are urged to regularize their status promptly to avoid enforcement actions and ensure continuous healthcare access for their employees.
For assistance with registration, payments, or record reconciliation, employers are encouraged to contact the SHA Contact Centre or visit the nearest SHA or Huduma Centre.
