Calculating Ecocash Charges Made Simple

Navigating mobile money charges in Zimbabwe is a headache. With complex tiered fees, a separate 2% government tax, and different rates for sending versus cashing out, it’s no wonder transactions sometimes fail or you send more than expected.

That’s where ECharges (www.echarges.co.zw) comes in. This long-standing online tool has been helping Zimbabweans calculate mobile money fees for years, and it’s regularly updated to reflect the latest rates. 

ECharges does something that should probably be simpler than it is, it tells you exactly what your mobile money transaction will cost.

The app covers three major platforms: EcoCash, OneMoney, and Telecash. Whether you're sending money or cashing out, it calculates the charges down to the cent, including that 2% government tax.

Just select the mobile platform, enter the amount, and the app shows you the total cost.  Here's where ECharges really shines: the reverse calculation.

Let's say your rent is $200 and your landlord needs to cash out exactly that amount. How much do you actually need to send? Most people would guess, add a bit extra, and hope for the best.

ECharges tells you the exact amount. You enter that your recipient needs $200 after cashing out, and the app calculates precisely how much you need to send to cover the charges. Your landlord gets exactly $200. No more, no less.

This works for all transaction types across all three platforms. Sending money, cashing out, whatever you need, the app has you covered.

Why Mobile Money Charges Are So Tricky

The reason we need a calculator for this in the first place is simple: mobile money charges aren't straightforward.

EcoCash charges different amounts depending on how much you're sending. A $10 transaction doesn't cost the same percentage as a $100 transaction. Then there's the 2% government tax on top. And the charges are completely different if you're cashing out versus sending money to someone else.

Add all that up while you're standing in line or rushing to make a payment? Good luck.

More Platforms Coming Soon

The app currently works on EcoCash, OneMoney, and Telecash. But there's more on the way. A mobile app version is in development, which will make the calculator even easier to access right from your phone when you need it. The mobile version will also include two more platforms: InnBucks and Omari.

That means pretty much every mobile money option Zimbabweans use will be covered in one place.

Why Transparency Matters

When charges aren't clear, you can't make good decisions about your money. You might avoid sending smaller amounts because you're not sure how much extra it'll cost. Or you might overpay without realizing it.

ECharges puts that information right in front of you. No hidden calculations. No fine print. Just straightforward numbers that help you know exactly what you're spending.

The app is completely free to use. No registration needed. Just go to www.echarges.co.zw, pick your platform and transaction type, and get your answer.