Quick Answer
Important Service Update: TymeBank (now rebranded as GoTyme Bank) offers a dedicated USSD service code at
*120*543#(or*130*543#if you are out of airtime).
To buy airtime using the USSD string, dial *120*543#, log in with your PIN, choose Buy, select Airtime, choose your mobile operator, enter the amount and target phone number, and confirm the debit. Alternatively, you can use the official GoTyme Bank App to purchase airtime without USSD string limits.
Last verified: July 2026
What the Service Is and Who Can Use It
The TymeBank / GoTyme Bank USSD airtime service is a mobile self-service facility that allows active account holders in South Africa to buy prepaid airtime directly using funds from their Everyday account.
Who Can Use It:
- Active TymeBank / GoTyme Bank Account Holders: You must have an open, active account with a sufficient positive balance.
- Registered Mobile Numbers: The service must be accessed from the cellphone number officially linked to your bank profile.
- Prepaid SIM Users: Airtime can be bought for prepaid or top-up SIMs across all major South African mobile network operators (Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Telkom Mobile).
Exclusions:
- You cannot complete USSD transactions from an unlinked or unverified phone number.
- Postpaid contract lines cannot receive standard prepaid airtime top-ups via this menu.
How to Buy Airtime
Before You Start
- Ensure your phone is connected to a cellular network signal.
- Have your 5-digit Mobile Banking PIN ready.
- Check that your TymeBank / GoTyme Bank Everyday account has sufficient funds to cover the purchase.
Verified Step-by-Step Process
- Dial the USSD Code: Open your phone’s dialler and enter
*120*543#(or*130*543#if you have zero airtime balance). Press Call. - Enter Credentials: Promptly enter your 5-digit banking PIN to authorize the session.
- Select Menu: Select the menu option for Buy or Value Added Services.
- Choose Airtime: Choose Airtime from the prompt list.
- Select Recipient: Choose whether you are purchasing airtime for Your Number or Another Number.
- Enter Details: If buying for someone else, enter their 10-digit cellphone number.
- Select Mobile Network: Choose the relevant mobile network provider (Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, or Telkom Mobile).
- Specify Amount: Enter the desired rand value for the airtime recharge.
- Confirm: Review the details on the screen and reply to confirm the transaction.
Confirmation or Expected Result
Once you confirm the transaction:
- On-Screen Confirmation: A USSD pop-up message will indicate whether the transaction was successful or failed.
- SMS Notification: You will receive an SMS confirmation from TymeBank containing the payment reference number, amount debited, and recipient mobile number.
- Mobile Operator Recharge SMS: The recipient phone will receive an SMS from their network operator confirming that airtime has been credited to their line.
- Delivery Time: Airtime is usually credited within 1 to 5 minutes under normal network conditions.
Recovery Route: If your bank account is debited but the recipient does not receive the airtime within 30 minutes, save your SMS payment reference and contact GoTyme Bank support or check the transaction status inside the banking app.
Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times
| Feature | Details |
| Transaction Fee | Standard USSD session rates apply (20c per 20 seconds on *120* strings). The bank does not charge an extra airtime purchasing fee. |
| Minimum Purchase | Usually R5 or R10 (depending on network operator limits). |
| Daily Limits | Standard daily transaction limits apply to your account profile to prevent fraud. |
| Processing Time | Real-time / Instant (typically 1 to 5 minutes). |
| Account Eligibility | Active Everyday Account with available clear funds. |
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors
- “Session Timed Out”: USSD sessions automatically terminate after 15–20 seconds of inactivity. Redial the code and respond quickly to each prompt.
- “Invalid PIN” / Access Blocked: Ensure you enter the exact 5-digit PIN registered with your account. Multiple failed attempts will block USSD access for safety.
- “Insufficient Funds”: Ensure your account balance covers the requested airtime amount.
- Network Signal Issues: If you receive a “Connection problem or MMI code” error, switch your phone to Flight Mode for 5 seconds, turn it off, and attempt the call again with a full cellular signal.
When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable
If the USSD shortcode returns a service error or network unavailability notification:
- Try the alternative string
*130*543#. - Switch to the official GoTyme Bank App using Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Official Alternatives
When USSD is unavailable, or if you need to perform more complex transactions, use these official banking channels:
- GoTyme Bank App (Recommended): Download the official app from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. Log in, tap Transact, select Buy Prepaid Mobile / Airtime, and complete the transaction.
- In-Store Kiosks / Customer Hubs: Visit a TymeBank / GoTyme Bank kiosk located inside partner stores (e.g., Pick n Pay or Boxer) for physical account assistance.
- Customer Care Support: Call the official Customer Care Line at 0860 999 119 (or +27 11 327 6244) for balance queries or transaction disputes.
Safety and Privacy
- Never Share Your Banking PIN: TymeBank, GoTyme Bank, and network operators will never ask you for your PIN, passwords, full ID details, or OTPs via SMS, phone calls, or unsolicited menus.
- Beware of Fraudulent Strings: Only dial official numbers published by the bank (
*120*543#or*130*543#). - Lost or Stolen SIM: If your phone or registered SIM card is lost or stolen, call customer support immediately at 0860 999 119 to suspend your USSD banking access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current How To Buy Airtime With TymeBank USSD Code?
The primary USSD string is *120*543#. If you have zero airtime on your mobile SIM, you can dial *130*543# to access the service menu.
Can airtime be bought for another number?
Yes. During the USSD session, choose the option to buy for Another Number and enter the target 10-digit South African cellphone number.
What payment source is used?
The funds for the airtime purchase are directly debited from your linked Everyday Account balance.
Are there fees or limits?
There are no additional banking transaction fees to buy airtime, but standard carrier USSD session rates (20c per 20 seconds) apply on *120* numbers. Daily limits depend on your account profile settings.
What should I do if the TymeBank USSD route does not work?
If USSD fails or times out, log into the official GoTyme Bank App to buy airtime, or contact customer care at 0860 999 119 for assistance.
