Frequently Asked Questions
What is BillBuddys?
BillBuddys is a mobile-first group expense sharing and settlement app that lets friends, families, and groups create a bill, invite others, split it fairly, track contributions in real time, and settle payments seamlessly and transparently.
How can I access BillBuddys?
Simply open your Google Play Store or App Store, search and download BillBuddys App. You can sign-up using your Gmail account or Apple ID, and it is free!
Why have I not received OTP to complete sign up on BillBuddys?
Please ensure that the mobile number you've provided during sign up is correct and available in the device you are using to sign up.
Can I have multiple BillBuddys accounts using the same mobile number?
No. Your BillBuddys account can be linked to only one mobile number at a time.
Do the friends I intend to split a bill with need to have the BillBuddys App?
No. The buddys you intend to invite to split bill with do not need to install the App. Simply add them to your bill using their M-PESA mobile numbers or buddytag and they shall get an SMS notification with payment link to contribute to the bill.
Can I add contributors with Airtel or Telkom numbers?
Currently, this is not possible. You should only add Safaricom M-PESA numbers so they can get payment prompt from M-PESA to contribute. However, we are working to avail capability to contribute from Airtel Money and T-Kash.
Why have I not received contribution notification from the bill creator?
This could be a transient problem. You can request the bill creator to trigger contribution reminder notification to you. If the problem persists, check if you've blocked "BillBuddys" SMS sender ID and unblock it.
What is the maximum number of people I can add to a single bill split?
You can add a maximum of 99 buddys to a single bill split. If you need more contributors, you'll have to create separate bills and add the rest of the contributors.
Can I settle whatever amount we shall have collected if one or more contributors ignore or decline to contribute?
If one or more of your buddys ignore or decline to contribute, simply resplit the deficit among the available contributors to meet the target bill amount and settle.
Can I top up an additional amount to our current bill?
Yes, you can. However, ensure every buddy has contributed to the original bill for you to see an option to top up.
What is a bill lifecycle?
A bill lifecycle refers to the stages represented by statuses that a bill undergoes from creation to settlement. A bill that is being created will be in draft status. After the bill has been submitted it will transition to pending status. Once the first contribution is received, it will move to active status. The bill will automatically transition to ready status upon receiving the last contribution then move to paid status upon settlement.
Is there a limit to the number of bills one can create?
There is no limit to the number of bills you can create or have.
Can I cancel a bill once it has been created?
You can only cancel a bill in pending status. Once the first contribution is received, you cannot cancel that bill.
Can I delete a bill in draft status?
Yes, you can. Simply long press on the bill card you want to delete to open a delete menu and follow the prompts. Remember the bill must be in draft status.
Does bill resplit attract additional transaction fees?
No. Resplit does not attract additional fees.
How many times can I top up or resplit a bill?
You can top up or resplit a bill only once. You cannot do both top up and resplit on the same bill.