USSD Code

Activate Access Bank Ussd Code

USSD Code Guide: How to Activate Access Bank USSD Code in 2026

If you bank with Access Bank and want quick, mobile access to your account without using data or a smartphone app, activating the Access Bank USSD code is the fastest way to start. This guide explains what the Access Bank USSD code is, how to activate it step-by-step, key features, limits, and safety tips.

Note: Details in this article are based on information from the official Access Bank website and related official pages. Always confirm any changes directly on the bank’s platforms before performing sensitive transactions.

What Is the Access Bank USSD Code?

Access Bank’s primary USSD code is:

*901#

This short code allows you to carry out basic banking services on any mobile phone (smartphone or feature phone) without an internet connection, using the phone number linked to your Access Bank account.

With *901#, you can:

USSD banking is designed for speed, convenience, and low data requirements, especially in areas with limited internet coverage.

Requirements to Activate Access Bank USSD Code

Before you can activate *901#, you need:

  1. An active Access Bank account
    This may be a savings or current account.

  2. A mobile phone number linked to your account
    The SIM card you will use for *901# must be the one registered with your bank.

  3. A GSM phone (any type)
    USSD works on both feature phones and smartphones.

  4. Network coverage
    Any supported network provider that allows USSD usage in your region.

How to Activate Access Bank USSD Code (*901#)

Activation of the Access Bank USSD code typically involves creating a secure transaction PIN and confirming your account details. The general steps are:

Step 1: Insert the registered SIM in your phone

Make sure the phone number you use is the one linked to your Access Bank account. If you have multiple SIMs, select the correct one.

Step 2: Dial the Access Bank USSD code

On your phone, dial:

*901#

Press the call/send button using the registered number.

Step 3: Choose the registration/activation option

On the USSD menu, you should see an option related to:

  • “Register”
  • “Activate”
  • “Create PIN”
  • or “USSD Banking”

Select the relevant option as prompted on-screen.

Step 4: Enter your account details

You may be asked to confirm:

  • The last few digits of your account number, or
  • A portion of your debit card details (depending on the flow available in your country)

Follow the on-screen instructions carefully and ensure the details match your official bank records.

Step 5: Create a secure transaction PIN

You will be asked to create a USSD transaction PIN (commonly 4–6 digits). Choose a number that:

  • Is not your ATM PIN,
  • Is not your date of birth,
  • Cannot be easily guessed by family or friends.

You may need to confirm the PIN by entering it twice.

Step 6: Complete the activation

Once your details have been verified and your PIN is successfully set, you’ll receive a confirmation message on-screen or via SMS indicating that your *901# USSD banking has been activated.

You can now use *901# for eligible transactions.

How to Use Access Bank USSD Code After Activation

Once activated, the *901# code becomes your gateway to mobile banking. While exact menu options and formats can change over time, typical usages include:

1. Check Account Balance

  • Dial: *901#
  • Select “Check Balance” from the menu and follow the prompts.
  • You may be asked to enter your USSD PIN.

2. Transfer Money

You can usually transfer to:

  • Another Access Bank account
  • Other banks

Typical process:

  1. Dial *901#
  2. Choose “Transfer” or “Send Money”
  3. Select whether it’s to an Access Bank account or another bank
  4. Enter the recipient’s account number
  5. Confirm the bank (if interbank transfer)
  6. Enter the amount
  7. Confirm details and enter your USSD PIN to authorise

3. Buy Airtime

  • Self-recharge:
    Dial *901# and choose “Airtime Self” (or similar), or use any direct code your bank provides for buying airtime for the registered line.

  • Recharge for others:
    Choose “Airtime Others”, enter the recipient’s number, amount, then your PIN.

4. Pay Bills

Many users can pay for:

  • TV subscriptions
  • Utility bills
  • Selected services supported by the bank

Process:

  1. Dial *901#
  2. Choose “Bills” or “Pay Bills”
  3. Select the bill category and provider
  4. Enter required details (card number, customer ID, etc.)
  5. Confirm and authorise with your PIN

Limits and Restrictions on Access Bank USSD Transactions

USSD banking often comes with daily or per-transaction limits to protect customers and comply with regulations. Typical restrictions may include:

  • Daily transaction limits for transfers and bill payments
  • Per-transaction caps
  • Network dependence: Poor signal can interrupt transactions
  • Requirement to use the registered number only

For the latest information on transaction limits and fees, refer to the official Access Bank website or your local Access Bank branch, as these can change and may vary by region.

You can visit the official Access Bank website for up‑to‑date details on digital banking and USSD services:
https://www.accessbankplc.com

Security Tips When Using Access Bank USSD Code

To keep your money safe while using *901#, follow these security practices:

  1. Never share your USSD PIN or OTP
    Bank staff, agents, or support teams will not ask for your full PIN.

  2. Always double-check recipient details
    Confirm account numbers and names before approving transfers.

  3. Keep your SIM secure

  4. Avoid using public or shared phones
    Only use *901# on your own device where you can control access.

  5. Beware of phishing and fake messages
    Do not respond to unsolicited calls or SMS asking you to “re-activate” USSD by sending your PIN or card details.

Troubleshooting Common USSD Issues

If you have problems activating or using *901#, these are common reasons and possible steps:

1. “Connection problem” or “MMI code error”

  • Check your network signal strength.
  • Move to an area with better coverage and dial again.
  • Restart your phone and retry.

2. Wrong Phone Number

If the SIM you are using is not the one linked to your Access Bank account:

  • Visit a branch or contact official customer service to update your phone number, or
  • Use the correct registered SIM for activation.

3. PIN Issues

  • If you forget your USSD PIN, you may need to reset it through an official process, which can involve:
    • Using a reset option on the USSD menu (if available), or
    • Visiting a branch with valid identification.

Do not rely on third‑party “reset” offers; always go through official bank channels.

Advantages of Activating Access Bank USSD Code

Activating *901# offers several practical benefits:

  • No internet required: Works without data, ideal for areas with limited connectivity.
  • Fast transactions: Most operations complete in seconds.
  • Works on basic phones: No need for a smartphone or banking app.
  • 24/7 availability: Access your account outside branch hours, including weekends and public holidays.
  • Useful in emergencies: Buy airtime or transfer funds even when you can’t access an app or ATM.

When Not to Use USSD Banking

While USSD is convenient, there are situations where alternative channels may be better:

  • Large transactions above USSD limits – use internet banking or mobile app where supported.
  • Complex services (e.g., certain loan products, investments) – often handled better through the bank’s app, website, or in-branch.
  • When you suspect SIM compromise – block or change your number and contact the bank before resuming USSD use.

How to Deactivate or Block USSD if Your Phone Is Lost

If your phone or SIM is lost or stolen:

  1. Contact your mobile network provider to block the SIM immediately.
  2. Notify Access Bank through official channels (branch or verified contact points from the official website) and request temporary blocking of USSD banking on your account.

Do not wait for suspicious activity to occur before acting.

Summary: How to Activate Access Bank USSD Code

To activate the Access Bank USSD code:

  1. Insert the phone number registered with your Access Bank account into your phone.
  2. Dial *901#.
  3. Select the registration or PIN creation option.
  4. Confirm your account or card details as requested.
  5. Create a secure USSD transaction PIN.
  6. Wait for confirmation that USSD banking has been successfully activated.

Once activated, you can use *901# to check balances, transfer funds, buy airtime, and pay bills, all from a basic mobile phone without internet access.

For the latest official details about USSD banking, transaction limits, and supported services, always refer to Access Bank’s own website:
https://www.accessbankplc.com