Bank guide

Standard Bank USSD Code To Check Balance

  • Works on any phone
  • No internet needed
  • Primary code *120*2345#
  • Also listed *130*2345#
  • Also listed *136#
  • Also listed *140#

Quick Answer

Last Verified: July 2026

Official USSD Code: *120*2345#

Zero-Airtime Emergency Code: *130*2345# (For basic top-ups when you have zero airtime balance)

To check your Standard Bank account balance on any mobile phone in South Africa without data, dial *120*2345# from the mobile number registered to your bank profile. Enter your 5-digit Cellphone Banking PIN when prompted, select your account, and your current and available balances will display immediately on your screen. Standard network USSD session rates (typically 20c per 20 seconds) apply.

What the Service Is and Who Can Use It

Standard Bank Cellphone Banking (USSD) is a secure, text-based banking service that allows customers to access core banking functions on any mobile handset—including basic feature phones (“burner” or “brick” phones)—without requiring an internet connection or mobile data.

Eligibility & Requirements

How to Check the Balance

Before You Start

  1. Ensure your phone is inserted with the SIM card linked to your Standard Bank account.
  2. Keep your 5-digit Cellphone Banking PIN in mind (never use your 4-digit ATM card PIN).
  3. Ensure you have a active airtime balance (at least R0.50 to R1.00) to cover network session fees, or use *130*2345#if you are completely out of airtime.

Verified Step-by-Step Process

  1. Open Phone Dialer: Launch the phone dialer app on your mobile device.
  2. Dial Code: Enter *120*2345# and press the call button.
  3. Enter PIN: When the menu pops up, enter your 5-digit Cellphone Banking PIN.
  4. Select Balance Enquiry: From the main menu, reply with the menu option corresponding to “Check Balance” or “Balances”.
  5. Choose Account: If you have multiple linked accounts (e.g., Cheque and Savings), select the specific account you want to view.
  6. View Balance: Read your real-time balance directly from the screen prompt.

Confirmation or Expected Result

Once you complete the prompt, the USSD session will display a pop-up box with your account summary:

Note: If your session disconnects before displaying the result or encounters a network timed-out error, re-dial *120*2345#. USSD sessions auto-close after ~20 seconds of inactivity to protect account security.

Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times

FeatureDetails
USSD Service FeeStandard Bank does not charge a monthly subscription fee for USSD banking.
Network Session CostMobile network operators (Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Telkom) charge standard USSD session fees (approx. 20c per 20 seconds).
Emergency Code (*130*2345#)Free to dial when you have zero airtime, enabling prepaid airtime purchases.
Balance Processing TimeReal-time. Updates instantly after transactions clearance.
Service Availability24/7, 365 days a year.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors

When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable

If the USSD service undergoes routine system maintenance or system outages:

  1. Wait 15 to 30 minutes and retry.
  2. Switch to an official alternative channel detailed below.

Official Alternatives

When USSD services are delayed or unavailable, access your balance using these official Standard Bank routes:

Safety and Privacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current Standard Bank USSD Code To Check Balance?

The verified code to check your balance is *120*2345#. If you have no airtime, dial *130*2345# to top up airtime first.

Which balance does the code show?

The prompt displays both your Current Balance (total account funds) and Available Balance (spendable funds minus pending holds or uncleared deposits).

Must the user dial from a registered number?

Yes. You must dial from the mobile phone number registered on your Standard Bank account profile for security verification.

Is the displayed amount real-time or delayed?

The displayed balance is real-time and reflects current posted transactions, debit orders, and ATM withdrawals immediately.

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

If USSD fails, verify your mobile network coverage, confirm your SIM selection on dual-SIM devices, or view your balance via the Standard Bank Mobile AppInternet Banking, or an ATM.

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