USSD banking has become one of the most convenient ways for customers to access financial services without a smartphone or internet connection. For customers of Diamond Bank (now operating as Access Bank after a merger), the USSD service offers quick access to core banking functions directly from a mobile phone.
Below is a detailed overview of the Diamond Bank USSD code, how it works, who can use it, and what you can do with it.
What Is the Diamond Bank USSD Code?
Diamond Bank introduced its mobile USSD service to allow customers to perform basic banking transactions using short codes on their mobile phones. After Diamond Bank merged with Access Bank, the USSD banking service continued under the new brand.
The Diamond Bank USSD code is used to:
- Check account balances
- Transfer funds between accounts
- Buy airtime and data
- Pay selected bills
- Access other basic banking features
USSD banking is particularly useful for users with:
- No internet access
- Basic feature phones
- Limited access to banking halls or ATMs
How USSD Banking Works
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a protocol that allows you to communicate with your bank through short codes. You don’t need a smartphone or data connection. Instead, actions are performed by dialling a specific code, then following on‑screen prompts.
General process:
- Dial the bank’s USSD code from the mobile number linked to your account.
- Navigate the menu using number selections (e.g. 1 for balance, 2 for transfer).
- Confirm transactions with your PIN.
- Receive an instant confirmation message.
This makes USSD banking useful in areas with limited connectivity or for users who prefer text‑based interactions over apps.
Typical Features Available via Diamond Bank USSD Code
While exact menu options can vary by region and over time, Diamond Bank’s USSD service typically includes:
1. Balance Enquiry
- View available and ledger balances.
- Check recent updates after deposits or withdrawals.
2. Fund Transfers
- Transfer between your own accounts.
- Transfer to other customers of the same bank.
- Transfer to accounts in other local banks (where supported).
3. Airtime & Data Purchase
- Buy airtime for your own mobile number.
- Top up airtime for friends and family.
- Purchase data bundles (if supported by your network and the bank’s menu).
4. Bill Payments
- Pay select utility bills (such as power, TV subscriptions, or other local services where enabled).
- View or confirm payment references on‑screen.
5. Card & Account Services
- View partial card details (where available).
- Temporarily restrict or manage some card functions (if offered in your region).
- Access mini‑statements or transaction history (limited number of recent transactions).
Who Can Use the Diamond Bank USSD Code?
Generally, you must:
- Have an active account that was originally with Diamond Bank or is now with Access Bank after the merger.
- Have your mobile number registered with the bank.
- Use a local mobile network operator supported by the bank’s USSD platform.
- Basic feature phones
- Smartphones (Android, iOS, etc.)
- Any GSM phone capable of sending USSD commands
No internet connection is necessary; only standard GSM network coverage is required.
How to Register for USSD Banking
The typical registration process for Diamond Bank / Access Bank USSD banking involves:
- Dial the official USSD code from your registered mobile number.
- Follow on‑screen prompts to accept terms and conditions (if displayed).
- Enter required details, such as the last digits of your debit card or account number (depending on the bank’s current process).
- Create a secure transaction PIN, which will be used to authorise all future USSD transactions.
- Confirm registration; you should receive a success notification on your phone.
If any step fails, customers are usually advised to:
- Try again later, or
- Visit a nearby branch, or
- Contact the bank through official customer‑care channels listed on its website or mobile app.
Security Tips When Using USSD Banking
Because USSD banking operates directly on your phone without a physical receipt, you should follow basic security practices:
- Never share your USSD PIN with anyone, including bank staff.
- Always keep your phone locked with a password or PIN.
- Avoid using public or shared phones for USSD banking.
- Immediately contact the bank through an official channel if your phone is lost or stolen so they can protect your account access.
- Check transaction confirmations carefully before ending the USSD session.
USSD sessions generally time out after a short period of inactivity, which adds a layer of security, but users still need to remain vigilant.
Benefits of Using the Diamond Bank USSD Code
Key advantages include:
- No internet required – works with simple GSM coverage.
- Fast transactions – balances, transfers and airtime top‑ups process in seconds in most cases.
- 24/7 availability – usable outside normal banking hours.
- Low‑cost access – generally only standard network USSD charges apply, where applicable.
- Accessibility – ideal for customers in rural or low‑connectivity areas or those without smartphones.
Limitations of USSD Banking
While convenient, USSD banking has some limitations:
- Transaction limits – daily or per‑transaction limits may apply for security reasons.
- Menu scope – complex services (like full investment products or detailed statements) may not be available; these often require internet banking or branch visits.
- Network dependency – poor GSM network quality can interrupt sessions.
For more advanced services, customers are usually encouraged to combine USSD with mobile apps, online banking, and in‑branch services.
USSD Codes in South Africa and Beyond
USSD banking is widely used in many African countries. In South Africa and other regions, banks, mobile operators, and service providers use USSD for:
- Mobile money and wallet services
- Airtime and data purchases
- Account enquiries and utility payments
A regional directory of USSD services, such as the information hub at
https://www.ussdcode.co.za/, provides general guidance on USSD usage and how different codes are used across services.
When to Confirm Details with the Bank
USSD codes, transaction menus, and limits can change over time, especially following mergers or regulatory updates. Because of this:
- Always confirm the current Diamond Bank / Access Bank USSD code directly from the bank’s official website, mobile app, or verified customer‑care channels.
- Do not rely solely on third‑party sources for sensitive information like banking codes, contact numbers, or escalation procedures.
- If in doubt, visit a branch or use secure in‑app messaging (where available) to verify.
USSD banking remains a practical solution for Diamond Bank / Access Bank customers who need quick, reliable access to their accounts from any basic mobile phone. By understanding how the Diamond Bank USSD code works, what services are available, and how to keep your transactions secure, you can make the most of mobile banking without needing constant internet access.
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