Standard Bank USSD Code

Quick Answer

The official main Standard Bank USSD code for South Africa Cellphone Banking is *120*2345#.

If your phone is out of airtime, Standard Bank provides the zero-airtime recharge USSD string *130*2345# to buy airtime or prepaid top-ups. Additionally, for Instant Money Wallet management, customers can dial *120*212#.

• Main USSD Banking Code: *120*2345#
• Zero Airtime / Recharge Code: *130*2345#
• Instant Money Wallet Code: *120*212#
• Last Verified: July 2026
• Service Requirements: Active Standard Bank transactional account, registered mobile number on file, and network signal (airtime required for *120# strings).

What the Service Is and Who Can Use It

Standard Bank Cellphone Banking (USSD) is a secure, data-free channel that lets you access core banking features from any GSM mobile phone without downloading an app or connecting to the internet.

Eligibility & Requirements

• Eligible Account Holders: Personal transactional account holders (such as MyMo, Access Account, Achiever, or Select accounts).
• Registered SIM Card: You must dial the USSD code from the cellphone number officially registered with Standard Bank and linked to your bank profile.
• Airtime Availability: Dialling *120*2345# requires a small amount of airtime on your mobile line as standard carrier session rates apply. If you have zero airtime, dial *130*2345# to purchase airtime.
• Exclusions: Profile access is restricted if your account is dormant, frozen, or if you dial from an unlinked mobile number. USSD banking is only accessible within South African network operator boundaries and cannot be accessed while roaming internationally.

How to Access the Service

Before You Start

• Ensure the SIM card registered with Standard Bank is inserted into Phone Slot 1 (if using a dual-SIM handset).
• Have your account card number, South African ID number, or Cellphone Banking Customer Service PIN (CSP) ready.
• Never share your ATM card PIN or Online Banking Password with anyone.

Verified Step-by-Step Process

1. Dial the Code: Open your phone’s dialler, enter *120*2345#, and press the Call button.
2. First-Time Registration / Sign-In:
   • If already registered: Enter your Customer-Selected PIN (CSP) when prompted.
   • If new to Cellphone Banking: Follow the on-screen prompts to register using your bank card number and SA ID number to establish your profile.
3. Navigate the Main Menu: Select the numeric option corresponding to your desired task:
   • 1. Account Balances & Statements
   • 2. Payments & Transfers (includes PayShap and beneficiary payments)
   • 3. Prepaid Services (Airtime, Data, Electricity)
   • 4. Instant Money (Send or redeem cash vouchers)
   • 5. Manage Debit Orders (DebiCheck approvals and reversals)
   • 6. Lotto & PowerBall
4. Confirm Your Transaction: Enter the requested details (amount, recipient number, or bill reference) and enter your secure USSD PIN to finalize.

Confirmation or Expected Result

When a transaction succeeds, an immediate interactive USSD confirmation screen appears showing the remaining balance, reference number, or voucher code. You will also receive an official transaction SMS from Standard Bank shortly after.

Recovery Note: If your account is debited or airtime is charged but you do not receive an SMS confirmation or the menu drops unexpectedly, wait 5 minutes and check your balance via *120*2345#. If funds were deducted without completing the task, contact Standard Bank customer support at 0860 123 000.

Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors

• “Invalid MMI Code” or Connection Error: This usually happens due to poor cellular signal or dual-SIM selection errors. Toggle Airplane mode on and off, ensure you are dialling from the primary SIM slot, and try dialling *120*2345# again.
• “User Not Registered” / “Number Unrecognised”: The SIM card you are using is not linked to your Standard Bank account. Contact the bank or visit a branch to update your registered mobile number.
• “Session Timed Out”: USSD sessions automatically expire after 20–30 seconds of inactivity for security reasons. Re-dial *120*2345# and complete entries promptly.
• Insufficient Airtime: Dialling *120*2345# requires a positive airtime balance. If you have zero balance, use *130*2345# to purchase prepaid airtime.

When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable

Network carrier upgrades or system maintenance may temporarily disrupt USSD banking. If USSD is down, switch to an official alternative below.

Official Alternatives

• Standard Bank Mobile Banking App: Downloadable from Google Play, Apple App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. Best for full account management, setting card limits, and data-free banking on supported South African mobile networks.
• Standard Bank Internet Banking: Accessible via browser at onlinebanking.standardbank.co.za. Ideal for downloading official tax certificates, viewing statements, and managing online payments.
• Standard Bank ATM: Best for cash deposits, physical withdrawals, card PIN resets, and basic balance enquiries.
• Telephonic Support: Call 0860 123 000 (Local) or +27 11 299 4701 (International) for urgent account blocking, fraud reporting, or assistance when USSD fails.

Safety and Privacy

• Keep Credentials Private: Standard Bank will never ask you to disclose your full ATM PIN, Online Banking password, or One-Time PINs (OTPs) over the phone or in a USSD menu.
• Verify USSD Strings: Always manually dial *120*2345# yourself. Never tap phone links sent via unsolicited SMS or messaging apps.
• Clear Screen After Session: Close your phone dialler screen immediately after completing your session so onlookers cannot view your balance or account details.
• Report Lost/Stolen SIM: If your phone or SIM card is lost or stolen, notify Standard Bank customer care immediately to freeze your Cellphone Banking profile.

Related Guides & Hubs

• Banking USSD Codes — View the master list of official USSD codes for all major South African banks.
• Standard Bank USSD Code For DebiCheck — Learn how to approve or dispute DebiCheck mandates via USSD.
• How To Buy Airtime Using Standard Bank USSD Code — Complete guide on topping up airtime and data bundles for yourself or others.
• Standard Bank USSD Code To Check Balance — Detailed steps to check your account balance and mini-statements instantly.
• Standard Bank USSD Code For Cellphone Banking — Full feature walkthrough for registration, PIN resets, and menu options.
• Send Money USSD Codes — Compare Instant Money, PayShap, and money voucher transfer codes across banking networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current Standard Bank USSD Code?

The primary current Standard Bank USSD code is *120*2345#. For zero-airtime recharges, the code is *130*2345#.

Which customers or account types can use Standard Bank USSD?

Any Standard Bank personal transactional account holder who has registered their South African mobile phone number with the bank can use USSD banking.

What tasks are available in the Standard Bank USSD menu?

You can check account balances, perform PayShap payments, buy airtime/data/electricity, send Instant Money vouchers, play Lotto, and manage DebiCheck approvals or reversals.

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

If USSD fails due to network issues or service outages, use the Standard Bank Banking App, log into Internet Banking, visit an ATM, or contact customer care at 0860 123 000.