VIEW LATEST JOBS IN KENYA TODAY
Learn how to resolve the HELB Account Creation Failed error and successfully create your HELB account for student loan applications.

HELB Account Creation Failed

Posted on by Tutorials Handbook

When applying for a loan with the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) in Kenya, students are required to create an account on the HELB portal (https://portal.hef.co.ke/). This portal is essential for students seeking financial aid to cover tuition fees, upkeep and other academic expenses. However, one common issue many applicants face during the registration process is the “ID number could not be found” error. This error occurs when individuals try to validate their ID details on the portal, preventing them from completing the account creation process.

READ ALSO: HELB Loan Cancelled and Later Reinstated

In this guide, we’ll explore the cause of this error, why it happens and the steps you need to take to resolve it so you can successfully create your HELB account.

What is HELB Account Creation Failed? 

HELB Account Creation Failed refers to an error encountered during the process of registering for an account on the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) portal, a crucial step for Kenyan students applying for financial aid. This error prevents users from successfully creating their accounts, which are necessary for accessing various HELB services, such as loan applications, tracking loan status, and repayment management. One of the most common issues that causes this failure is the system’s inability to validate the user’s National ID number, often accompanied by an error message stating that the “ID number could not be found.”

This issue typically arises due to discrepancies or delays in updating personal identification details in the government database that HELB relies on for verification. For example, if a student’s ID was recently issued or updated, the information may not yet be reflected in HELB’s records, leading to account creation failure. Additionally, simple errors like entering the wrong ID number or system glitches can also contribute to this problem. Without a registered account, students are unable to proceed with applying for educational loans, making it essential to resolve the issue promptly.

The resolution to the HELB Account Creation Failed error involves sending an email to HELB’s support center, providing a scanned copy of the National ID along with contact details like the phone number and email address. Once HELB verifies and updates the user’s details in their system, the student can retry the account creation process after 24 hours. Successfully resolving this issue ensures that students can access the HELB portal and apply for the financial assistance needed for their higher education.

What Causes the “ID Number Could Not Be Found” Error on HELB Portal (HEF Portal)?

The “ID number could not be found” error typically occurs when the HELB portal is unable to locate or match your National ID number with its records. This issue can arise due to various reasons:

  • Delayed Updates to the Database: If you recently received your National ID or changed your identification details, they may not yet be updated in the database accessed by the HELB portal.
  • Incorrect Entry of ID Number: Small errors such as entering the wrong digits or typographical mistakes can prevent the system from finding your ID details.
  • Mismatch with Registration Records: In some cases, your ID details may not match exactly with the records maintained by the portal due to system inconsistencies or clerical errors.
  • System Glitch: There may be technical issues within the HELB system or the government records database, resulting in the portal being unable to retrieve your ID information.

Regardless of the cause, the result is the same: you cannot proceed with creating your HELB account. Fortunately, there is a simple solution to this issue.

How to Resolve the HELB “ID Number Could Not Be Found” Error

If you encounter this error during the HELB account creation process, don’t panic. Follow these steps to resolve the issue and successfully create your account:

1. Send an Email to HELB

To fix the issue, you need to notify HELB of the problem. You can do this by sending an email with the following details:

  • Subject: Include a clear subject line such as “ID Number Not Found Error – Account Creation Issue.”
  • Body of the Email: In the email body, briefly explain the issue you are facing. Be polite and provide clear information about the problem.
  • Attach a Scanned Copy of Your National ID: Ensure that your National ID is clearly visible and legible in the scanned copy.
  • Include Your Contact Information: Along with the scanned copy of your National ID, include your phone number and email address so HELB can easily reach you if needed.

Send the email to: [email protected]

2. Wait for Confirmation from HELB

Once you have submitted your email, HELB will review your case. Typically, they will update your ID details in their system within 24 hours. It’s important to be patient during this time. HELB processes a large volume of requests daily, so delays can occur, but most issues are resolved within the stated time frame.

3. Attempt to Create Your HELB Account Again

After 24 hours have passed, return to the HELB portal (https://portal.hef.co.ke/) and try to create your account once again. Enter your ID number and other required details carefully, ensuring that there are no errors in the information you provide. If the system has updated your records, you should be able to proceed with account creation successfully.

Additional Tips for Avoiding the “ID Number Not Found” Error

To minimize the likelihood of encountering this error in the future, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Double-Check Your ID Details: Always ensure that the ID number you are entering is correct. Cross-check the digits to avoid any typos.
  • Update Your Records with the Government: If your ID details have changed recently or if there have been discrepancies with your records in the past, ensure that the relevant government departments have your updated information.
  • Follow Up with HELB if Necessary: If you don’t hear back from HELB after sending your email, follow up politely. You can call their customer care center or resend your email with a gentle reminder.

Why Is Creating a HELB Account Important?

Creating a HELB account is the first crucial step in applying for a loan. With a registered account, you can:

  • Submit Loan Applications: The HELB portal allows students to apply for various loan options for undergraduate, postgraduate, and TVET education.
  • Track Loan Status: Once your loan is approved, you can track its status through the portal.
  • Access Repayment Information: After completing your studies, you will use your HELB account to check loan repayment schedules, penalties for late payments, and other critical financial details.
  • Update Personal Information: You can keep your contact and personal information updated through the portal, ensuring that all communications from HELB reach you promptly.

Given the importance of the portal, it’s essential that you resolve any account creation issues as soon as possible.

Common FAQs About HELB Account Creation

1. What should I do if I don’t receive a response after emailing HELB?

If you don’t receive a response within 24 hours, you can contact HELB directly via their customer care phone number or social media channels. Alternatively, you may resend your email, including a polite reminder.

2. Can I still apply for a loan if my account creation fails?

No, you need to create an account first before applying for a loan. Account creation is mandatory as it allows HELB to store and process your loan application details.

3. What if my ID details have been updated recently?

If your ID details have changed or were updated recently (e.g., you just got your National ID), wait a few days before trying to register again. Sometimes it takes time for changes in the government database to reflect in the HELB portal.

4. How long does it take for HELB to update my ID details?

After sending an email with your scanned National ID, it usually takes up to 24 hours for HELB to update your details in their system. In some cases, it may take slightly longer, depending on their workload.

Conclusion

Facing an issue while trying to create your HELB account, such as the “ID number could not be found” error, can be frustrating. However, by following the simple steps outlined above – sending an email with your National ID details to HELB and waiting for 24 hours – you can resolve the issue and complete the registration process.

READ ALSO: Transition to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF)

Remember, creating a HELB account is a crucial step in securing financial assistance for your higher education. Therefore, resolving any issues promptly ensures you don’t miss out on important application deadlines or opportunities for loan disbursement. If you continue to face problems, don’t hesitate to contact HELB’s customer care for additional support.

FIND AND APPLY FOR THE LATEST JOBS IN KENYA TODAY