USSD Code Guide to Government Services in South Africa

Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) has become one of the most practical ways for South Africans to access information and complete basic tasks on a mobile phone. For many government services, a Government Services USSD code allows people to interact with official systems without needing a smartphone, data, or a physical office visit.

This guide explains what USSD is, how government departments in South Africa use it, and where you can find verified USSD codes for key public services.

What Is a USSD Code?

A USSD code is a short string of characters that usually starts with * and ends with # (for example, *123#). When dialled from a mobile phone:

It opens an interactive menu directly on the device
It works on basic feature phones and smartphones
It does not require mobile data
It is typically free or low‑cost, depending on the service and your mobile network

USSD is widely used for:

Balance checks and airtime purchases
Banking and mobile money
Government information services
Registration and status checks

Because USSD runs on the GSM network rather than the internet, it is especially valuable in areas with limited connectivity or for users who do not have data-enabled phones.

Why Government Services Use USSD Codes

Government departments in South Africa use USSD to:

Reach citizens who don’t have regular internet access
Reduce queues at physical offices
Allow quick self-service for simple, high‑volume queries
Provide access in all nine provinces, including rural areas

By dialling a Government Services USSD code, citizens can often:

Check application status
Register for a service or benefit
Update certain personal details
Receive important information and notices

The exact functions depend on the department and the service.

Examples of Government‑Related USSD Services

USSD services change over time, and new codes are sometimes introduced for specific campaigns or temporary programmes. To stay accurate and current, always confirm details on official websites before using or publicising any code.

Below are examples of how government and public-interest services have used USSD in South Africa, with verified references where available.

1. Social Relief and Social Assistance (SASSA)

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is responsible for administering social grants. SASSA has, at various times, supported mobile and USSD-based processes for certain grant applications and status checks.

Official SASSA information, including updates on how to apply and check grant status, is provided on the government site:
https://www.gov.za/about-government/contact-directory/sa-social-security-agency-sassa

Because USSD channels and numbers can change, it is important to confirm any currently active USSD options directly from that official page or from announcements on the SASSA website before using a code or publishing it.

2. COVID‑19 and Health‑Related USSD Services

During the COVID‑19 response, the National Department of Health and partners used USSD to help people access information and self-screening tools without data. For example, the HealthConnect digital tool is described on the Department of Health’s official site:
https://www.health.gov.za

While specific USSD strings used in the past may no longer be active or may have changed, this demonstrates how USSD is used to:

Share health information and alerts
Provide risk-screening questionnaires
Support targeted public health campaigns

Users should always refer to the Department of Health website or other official channels for current, valid mobile access options.

3. Voter and Electoral Information

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) provides multiple channels for citizens to access voter information, check registration and find voting stations. While its primary digital tools are web-based and via its official site, it has historically provided mobile tools for voters in support of elections.

For official, up-to-date voter information tools, including any mobile-based services, visit the IEC website:
https://www.elections.org.za

If a USSD channel is made available for voter information during a specific election period, it will be announced and documented via the IEC’s official platforms.

How to Safely Use Government Services USSD Codes

Because USSD codes can be misused by fraudsters, it is essential to verify that a Government Services USSD code is legitimate before using it or sharing it.

Follow these steps:

Confirm on an official website
- Look for information on .gov.za domains (for example, gov.za, health.gov.za, etc.).
- For SASSA-related services, refer to: https://www.gov.za/about-government/contact-directory/sa-social-security-agency-sassa
- For health-related USSD or mobile options, use: https://www.health.gov.za
Check recent public announcements
- Verify that the code is mentioned in a recent press statement or notice from the relevant department.
- Avoid relying on unverified social media posts, screenshots, or word of mouth.
Beware of personal data requests
- A legitimate government service will explain why personal information is required.
- Be cautious if a USSD menu asks for sensitive financial details (like full card numbers or banking passwords) unless this is clearly linked to an established, official system and verified via the department’s own website.
Keep track of costs
- Some USSD sessions are free, while others may charge standard network rates.
- Before proceeding, make sure the USSD menu clearly states whether there is a cost involved.

Benefits of Government Services USSD Codes

Government Services USSD codes play an important role in digital inclusion:

Accessibility: They work on basic phones without internet.
Affordability: They often cost less than data-based services.
Convenience: Citizens can access key information from home or work.
Reach: They help government reach people in rural or underserved areas.

For many South Africans, a USSD code is the most reliable and practical way to interact with certain government services.

How to Find Current Government Services USSD Codes

Because codes can change, expire or be replaced, the safest way to find current and accurate Government Services USSD codes is:

Visit the main government portal:
- https://www.gov.za
  This site lists national and provincial departments, agencies and official contact points.
Go to the specific department page responsible for the service you’re interested in and look for mobile or USSD options in the “Services”, “How to apply” or “Contact” sections. Examples:
- SASSA: https://www.gov.za/about-government/contact-directory/sa-social-security-agency-sassa
- National Department of Health: https://www.health.gov.za
During elections or national campaigns, refer to the dedicated authority website (for example, the IEC at https://www.elections.org.za) to check if a temporary USSD service has been activated.

USSD and the Future of Digital Government in South Africa

As the South African government continues to expand e-government and digital services, USSD is likely to remain an important channel alongside web portals, mobile apps and contact centres. In particular, it supports:

Inclusive access for citizens without data-capable devices
Rapid rollout of information services during emergencies or national campaigns
Scalable self-service for high-demand programmes

For users, the key is to always confirm any Government Services USSD code through reliable, official sources before using it. This ensures both accurate information and safer interaction with public services.

USSD Codes and Government Services: Key Takeaways

A Government Services USSD code allows people to access government information and certain services using simple dial strings like *xxx#.
USSD works on any GSM mobile phone, without data, making it particularly useful in South Africa for inclusive access.
Government departments and agencies periodically launch or update USSD services, especially for high-demand programmes and public campaigns.
Always confirm active and legitimate USSD codes on official government websites such as:
- Main government portal: https://www.gov.za
- SASSA directory: https://www.gov.za/about-government/contact-directory/sa-social-security-agency-sassa
- National Department of Health: https://www.health.gov.za
- IEC: https://www.elections.org.za

By relying on verified, official information, citizens can safely use Government Services USSD codes to access essential services and support across South Africa.

Government Services Ussd Code