Quick Answer
Last Verified: July 2026
The official FNB USSD Code for cellphone banking in South Africa is *120*321#. Dialing this code from your registered cellphone number opens the main FNB Cellphone Banking menu, allowing you to view account balances, transfer funds, pay payees, send money via eWallet, and purchase prepaid airtime, data, or electricity.
If you run out of airtime, dial *130*321# to purchase airtime directly from your linked FNB account without incurring standard mobile network session fees. For non-account holders or recipients accessing an eWallet, the dedicated USSD code is *120*277# (or *130*277# when out of airtime).
What the Service Is and Who Can Use It
FNB Cellphone Banking via USSD is a secure, data-free text interactive menu that enables First National Bank customers to conduct everyday banking tasks from any mobile handset—including basic feature phones (“button” phones)—without needing a smartphone or active internet/data connection.
Eligibility and Prerequisites
- Registered Mobile Number: You must dial the USSD code from the cellphone number registered to your active FNB banking profile or linked to your eWallet.
- Supported Account Types: Personal Cheque, Savings, Easy, and Business account holders.
- Supported Networks: Works across all major South African mobile networks (Vodacom, MTN, Telkom Mobile, and Cell C).
- Exclusions: SIM cards not linked to an active FNB account cannot access personal account features via
*120*321#. Unregistered users will be prompted to register via an FNB ATM, branch, or Online Banking before full menu access is granted.
How to Access the Service
Before You Start
- Ensure your phone has an active cellular connection (at least 1–2 signal bars).
- Have your 5-digit Cellphone Banking PIN ready.
- Verify that you are dialing from the SIM card registered on your FNB banking profile.
Verified Step-by-Step Process
- Open the Keypad: Launch the phone dialer on your mobile device.
- Dial the Code: Enter
*120*321#and press the Call / Send button. - Enter Your Passcode: Promptly enter your 5-digit Cellphone Banking PIN when requested.
- Navigate the Main Menu: Select your required task by entering the corresponding option number:
- Option 1: View Balances & Statements (See FNB USSD Code To Check Balance).
- Option 2: Transfers & Payments.
- Option 3: Send Money / eWallet (See Send Money USSD Codes).
- Option 4: Prepaid Purchases (Airtime, Data, Electricity).
- Option 5: Vouchers & Services (See How To Buy Voucher Using FNB USSD Code).
- Option 6: DebiCheck & Mandate Approvals (See FNB DebiCheck USSD Code).
- Confirm Transaction: Review the recipient number, account choice, or amount carefully before confirming.
Confirmation or Expected Result
Upon successful completion of a transaction, an on-screen USSD confirmation message displays your transaction reference number. You will also receive an SMS notification confirming the debit or credit to your account.
Recovery Route for Failed Deliveries: If your account is debited but you do not receive an SMS confirmation or the prepaid product fails to reflect, wait 5 minutes before retrying. Check your balance via
*120*321#or contact FNB Support at 087 575 9405 with your timestamp and transaction details.
Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times
| Feature | Standard USSD (*120*321#) | Zero-Airtime String (*130*321# / *130*277#) |
| Session Charge | Standard USSD rate (approx. 20c per 20s network charge) | Free network session (cost routed to bank account top-up) |
| Send Money Limit | Up to R1 500 per transaction / daily limit | Restricted to airtime purchases |
| Prepaid Purchases | Standard account daily limit | Subject to available account balance |
| Processing Time | Immediate / Real-Time | Immediate / Real-Time |
| Prerequisites | Active SIM linked to FNB profile | Active SIM linked to FNB profile |
Note: For higher daily transaction limits, customers must use the FNB Banking App or FNB Online Banking.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors
- “Session Timed Out”: USSD sessions automatically disconnect after 20–30 seconds of inactivity to protect your account. Redial
*120*321#and enter your responses faster. - “Connection Problem or Invalid MMI Code”: Indicates a weak cell tower signal or network error. Switch your phone to Flight Mode for 5 seconds, switch it off, and retry dialing.
- Wrong SIM Selected: On dual-SIM mobile phones, verify that the call is being made from the exact SIM slot tied to your FNB banking registration.
- “Number Not Registered”: Occurs if you changed your SIM card or mobile number. You must update your contact number via an FNB ATM, branch, or Online Banking profile to re-enable USSD banking.
When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable
If *120*321# is temporarily unavailable due to network maintenance:
- Try
*130*321#for urgent airtime top-ups. - For eWallet collections or withdrawals, dial
*120*277#. - To view other provider networks, visit our broader Banking USSD Codes directory or check FNB Cellphone Banking USSD Code.
Official Alternatives
When USSD channels are down or your task requires higher limits, access FNB through these official routes:
- FNB Banking App: Downloadable from iOS App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei AppGallery. Best for transactions above R1 500, setting up payees, and downloading PDF statements.
- FNB Online Banking: Access
www.fnb.co.zafrom any web browser. - FNB ATM / AgencyPlus: For cardless cash withdrawals, PIN resets, and cash deposits.
- Customer Support: Call Cellphone Banking Support at 087 575 9405 (Operating hours: Monday – Sunday, 08:00 – 19:00).
Safety and Privacy
CRITICAL SECURITY ADVISORY
FNB will NEVER call, SMS, or email you asking for your 5-digit Cellphone Banking PIN, ATM PIN, OTP, card CVV, or Online Banking password.
- Keep Your PIN Private: Enter your 5-digit PIN only into secure USSD pop-up prompts on your handset.
- Beware of Scams: If anyone instructs you to dial a USSD string to “receive a refund” or “verify your identity,” end the interaction immediately.
- Report Fraud: Immediately call the eWallet & Fraud Call Centre on 087 575 9405 or 087 392 5538 if your phone is lost or you suspect unauthorized profile access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current FNB USSD Code?
The current official FNB USSD code is *120*321#. It opens the main Cellphone Banking menu for managing accounts, sending money, making payments, and buying prepaid products.
What is the difference between *120*321# and *130*321#?
*120*321# is the full Cellphone Banking menu (charged at standard USSD session fees). *130*321# is a zero-airtime string that allows you to buy airtime directly from your bank account even when you have 0.00 mobile airtime.
Which customers or account types can use FNB USSD Banking?
Any FNB account holder with an active Cheque, Savings, Easy, or Business account whose cellphone number is registered on their FNB profile can access the service.
What tasks are available in the FNB USSD menu?
You can view account balances, perform transfers, pay payees, send money via eWallet, approve DebiCheck mandates, pay DStv bills, and purchase airtime, data, or electricity.
What should I do if the FNB USSD route does not work?
Ensure you are using the registered SIM card with active network signal. If it fails, log into the FNB Banking App, visit www.fnb.co.za, or call FNB Cellphone Banking Support at 087 575 9405.
