ABSA USSD Code

Quick Answer

Official ABSA USSD Code: *120*2272# (*120*ABSA#)

Last Verified: July 2026

The official ABSA USSD code for cellphone banking in South Africa is *120*2272#. Dialing this string allows active account holders to access account balances, transfer funds, purchase prepaid airtime and electricity, approve DebiCheck debits, send cash via CashSend, and manage PayShap payments on any mobile phone without needing internet data.

What the Service Is and Who Can Use It

ABSA Cellphone Banking via USSD is an interactive menu service designed for mobile access without data. It transmits requests over standard cellular network signals, making it accessible on basic feature phones as well as smartphones.

Eligibility and Requirements

• Eligible Accounts: Personal savings, cheque, and transactional accounts held with ABSA South Africa.
• Registered SIM Requirement: You must dial the USSD code using the mobile SIM card linked to your official ABSA banking profile.
• Exclusions: Mobile numbers not registered on an ABSA profile or corporate accounts requiring multi-signatory approval cannot complete transactions via USSD.

How to Access the Service

Before You Start

• Ensure your phone has active mobile network coverage (Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, or Telkom).
• Confirm you are using the primary SIM card linked to your ABSA account.
• Open your phone’s call dialer. Internet connection or mobile data is not required.

Verified Step-by-Step Process

1. First-Time Registration:
   • Dial *120*2272# from your registered SIM card.
   • Select 1 to accept the Terms and Conditions.
   • Enter your South African ID number or valid Passport number.
   • Create a secure 5-digit numeric PIN.
   • Confirm the registration details.
2. Standard Service Access:
   • Dial *120*2272# on your keypad.
   • Enter your 5-digit Cellphone Banking PIN when prompted and select Send.
   • Select your required banking task from the numbered main menu (e.g., Balances, Airtime, Payments, PayShap, or CashSend).

Confirmation or Expected Result

• On-Screen Display: Successful balance checks and short queries immediately display the requested information on your screen.
• SMS Notifications: Transactions involving money movement (such as CashSend codes, third-party payments, or prepaid purchases) generate an automated SMS receipt sent to your number.
• Failed Session Recovery: If your account reflects a debit but you do not receive the purchased service (e.g., electricity token or airtime), check your SMS history for an automated reversal or contact ABSA customer support with your session time and reference.

Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors

• “Connection Problem or Invalid MMI Code”:
  • Cause: Poor cellular reception or dialing error.
  • Fix: Check your signal bars, verify *120*2272# was entered correctly, and redial. On dual-SIM phones, ensure you select the SIM card registered with ABSA.
• “Session Timed Out”:
  • Cause: Security timeout occurs after ~20 seconds of inactivity.
  • Fix: Redial *120*2272# and enter your menu responses more quickly.
• “User Profile / Number Not Recognized”:
  • Cause: You dialed from an unregistered SIM card or changed your mobile number recently.
  • Fix: Dial using the mobile number registered on your ABSA banking profile or update your contact number at an ABSA branch.
• “Incorrect PIN / Account Locked”:
  • Cause: Typing an incorrect 5-digit PIN.
  • Fix: Reset your PIN by dialing *120*2272#, selecting Option 1 (Reset PIN), and entering your SA ID or Passport number to verify your profile.

When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable

During mobile operator network disruptions, dialer errors, or extended maintenance, switch to Official Alternatives.

Official Alternatives

When USSD access is unavailable or when you need higher transaction limits, use these official ABSA channels:

• ABSA Banking App: Downloadable on Android and iOS. Supports facial biometrics, high-value EFTs, debit order reversals, and PDF payment proofs.
• ABSA Online Banking: Accessible at https://www.absa.co.za for full web-based banking management.
• ABSA ATMs: Available 24/7 nationwide for cash withdrawals, deposits, PIN updates, and account statements.
• ABSA Telephone Banking: Call 08600 08600 for self-service voice prompts or agent-assisted support.

Safety and Privacy

⚠️ Important Security Notice:

ABSA will never ask you to disclose your 5-digit Cellphone Banking PIN, ATM card PIN, online passwords, CVV number, or full card details via an unsolicited call or pop-up.

• Never share your 5-digit USSD PIN with anyone.
• Keep One-Time PINs (OTPs) and SureCheck approvals strictly private.
• If your phone is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the ABSA Fraud Hotline on 0800 11 11 55 or 08600 08600.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current ABSA USSD Code?

The official ABSA USSD code is *120*2272#.

Which customers or account types can use ABSA USSD banking?

Any active ABSA individual transactional, savings, or cheque account holder with a registered mobile SIM card in South Africa can use the service.

What tasks are available in the ABSA USSD menu?

You can view balances, purchase prepaid airtime and electricity, transfer funds, pay registered beneficiaries, send money using CashSend, authorize DebiCheck mandates, manage PayShap payments, and redeem Absa Rewards.

What should I do if the ABSA USSD route does not work?

Verify that you are using the correct registered SIM card and have cellular signal. If technical issues persist, reset your PIN via *120*2272# or use the ABSA Banking App or Internet Banking.