Quick Answer
Last verified: July 2026
The official USSD code for Pep Account self-service in South Africa is *120*3012#. Dial it and an active Pep store account holder can check the available credit balance, see the monthly instalment due, and ask for a credit limit increase straight from the handset. Standard network rates apply to *120* interactive USSD sessions.
If you want the +more Rewards loyalty menu instead, dial *130*7371#. PAXI parcel tracking and general store services do not run on USSD at all, so use the official WhatsApp or web channels for those.
What the Pep Account Service Is and Who Can Use It
The Pep account USSD service (*120*3012#) is an automated account-management tool for accounts administered by Tenacity Financial Services, a division of Pepkor. It exists for registered Pep store account cardholders in South Africa who need their basic financial details immediately, without spending mobile data or travelling to a store.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Active Account Holder: You must have an approved Pep Account card.
- Registered Cellphone Number: Dial from the mobile number linked to your Pep account profile at store registration or on your account application.
- SIM and Airtime: Your SIM needs active network coverage and a small airtime balance to open a
*120*session.
Note: This USSD service does not process cash transfers, lay-by payments, or parcel sending. For those, see the Payment USSD Codes hub or Send Money USSD Codes.
How to Access the Service
Before You Start
- Check that your phone has cellular reception on a supported South African network (Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, or Cell C).
- Confirm you are on the primary SIM card registered to your Pep Account.
- Keep a small airtime balance available, at least R0.50 to R1.00, because
*120*strings charge per 20-second session. - Have your 16-digit Pep Account card number and South African ID number to hand in case the menu asks you to verify.
Verified Step-by-Step Process
- Open your phone’s dialpad.
- Dial
*120*3012#and press the Call / Dial button. - Wait for the interactive menu to appear on screen.
- Choose the menu option that matches your task:
- Option 1: Check Balance and Instalment Due.
- Option 2: Apply for a Credit Limit Increase.
- Enter your South African ID number or Pep Account card number if asked to authenticate.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to view or complete the request.
Confirmation or Expected Result
- On-Screen Display: When checking a balance, the pop-up shows your total credit limit, the credit still available to spend, and the current instalment amount and due date.
- SMS Confirmation: Submit a credit limit increase and an SMS follows, confirming approval or asking for further income verification.
- Unsuccessful Sessions: If airtime comes off but the session times out before your balance appears, wait 2–3 minutes and retry, or switch to the official WhatsApp channel.
Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times
| Parameter | Specification | Details |
| USSD Session Fee | Network Rates Apply | Standard *120* pricing (approx. 20c per 20 seconds). |
| +more Loyalty Code | Free / Standard Rates | *130*7371# (typically free to dial). |
| Balance Display Time | Instant | Displayed on-screen within seconds. |
| Limit Increase Processing | Instant to 24 Hours | Automated review yields immediate response or SMS follow-up. |
| Operating Hours | 24/7 | Available continuously, subject to network availability. |
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors
- “Invalid MMI Code” or a connection error: Almost always weak signal or short-term congestion. Toggle Airplane Mode off and on, then redial
*120*3012#. - “Result Not Found” or unregistered number: You dialled from a SIM that is not linked to the Pep Account. Move to the SIM card you registered on the application.
- “Session Timed Out”: USSD sessions close after 20–30 seconds of inactivity. Redial and answer the prompts without pausing.
- Insufficient airtime:
*120*codes need a positive airtime balance. On zero balance, connect over data via WhatsApp, or use a zero-rated*130*string where one applies.
When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable
If the USSD route is under maintenance or keeps failing, move to one of the verified digital or voice alternatives below rather than redialling repeatedly.
Official Alternatives
When USSD is down, or when you need a feature the menu does not carry, use these official channels:
- WhatsApp Support (PEP Account): Save 060 070 2320 as a contact and send “HI” to view balances, request statements, or manage credit limit increases.
- Voice Prompts / IVR: Call 0860 900 500, select the PEP Account Card option, and have your card and ID number ready.
- PAXI Parcel Services: For parcel tracking, use WhatsApp at +27 21 010 1574 or visit paxi.co.za.
- In-Store Till Points: Visit any Pep, PEPhome, or PEPcell store with your South African ID to pay your account or ask for a balance.
For other retail, utility, or voucher codes, start from the Payment USSD Codes hub, which lists the verified routes for each provider.
Safety and Privacy
- Protect Sensitive Credentials: Pep will never ask for your card PIN, bank account password, or an OTP through a USSD pop-up or an unsolicited call.
- Verify Account Numbers: Paying your Pep account by online banking means checking the Tenacity Financial Services details (Standard Bank Current Account: 070336342) and using your 16-digit card number as the reference.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you think someone has tampered with your Pep account, contact customer support on 0860 900 500 straight away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current Pep USSD code?
The official USSD code for managing a Pep Account is *120*3012#. For the +more Rewards programme, dial *130*7371#.
How do I check my Pep account balance?
Dial *120*3012# from your registered number and choose the balance option. The screen shows your credit limit, the credit still available, and the instalment due. If you would rather not spend airtime, send “HI” to 060 070 2320 on WhatsApp.
What tasks are available in the Pep USSD menu?
Dialling *120*3012# lets an account holder view the total credit balance, check instalments due, and submit a request for a credit limit increase.
Which customers or account types can use the USSD code?
Active Pep store account holders, dialling from the mobile number registered against the account.
What should I do if the Pep USSD route does not work?
If USSD fails, save 060 070 2320 on WhatsApp and send “HI”, or call the automated line on 0860 900 500.
