Quick Answer
To use USSD codes, open your phone’s dialler, type the full code exactly as shown, then press the call button. A USSD code usually starts with * and ends with #, for example *135#. A menu should appear on your screen. Read the menu, reply with the number for the option you want, and confirm only when the details are correct.
Last checked: 26 June 2026
USSD is useful for quick mobile-network tasks such as checking balances, buying bundles, recharging airtime, managing services, or opening a provider self-service menu. Vodacom describes USSD as a way to request services by dialling a short sequence of characters such as *135#, and its self-service page says *135# can be used from a Vodacom cellphone to view balances, buy bundles, and transfer airtime. (Vodacom Help)
| User need | Best next step |
|---|---|
| You want to understand what USSD means | Read /what-is-a-ussd-code/ |
| You want a list of South African USSD codes | Read /ussd-codes-south-africa/ |
| You typed a code and it failed | Read /ussd-code-not-working/ |
| You are about to buy, subscribe, transfer, or enter personal details | Stop and verify the official provider route first |
| A code came from an SMS, WhatsApp, social post, or stranger | Do not dial it until it is verified by the official provider |
This guide explains how to dial a USSD code and how to enter a USSD code safely. It is not a full directory of every South African USSD code.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Confirm the code before you dial
Check that the USSD code belongs to the correct network, bank, retailer, government department, or service provider. Do not assume a code is official just because it appears in a message or social media post.
Examples of provider codes verified from official South African sources include:
| Provider | Verified example | What the official source says |
|---|---|---|
| Vodacom | *135# | Vodacom lists this as a self-service USSD route for balances, bundles, and airtime transfer. (Vodacom) |
| MTN | *136#, *136*1#, *136*2# | MTN lists USSD routes for quick information, detailed balances, bundle purchases, recharge, and related services. (MTN) |
| Cell C | *101#, *147# | Cell C lists USSD balance routes and also provides app, IVR, SMS, website, and support alternatives. (Cell C) |
| Telkom | *180#, *188# | Telkom lists *180# for self-service and *188# for balance checks. (Telkom) |
Only publish or use an exact code after checking the current official provider page, because USSD menus, bundle options, fees, and support routes can change.
2. Open your phone dialler
Use the same app or screen you use to make a normal phone call. You do not need to open a browser to enter a USSD code.
On a smartphone, open the Phone app. On a basic phone, go to the call screen or keypad.
3. Type the USSD code exactly
Enter the full code with the correct symbols.
Examples of the correct format:
*135#*136#*147#*180#
Do not remove the * or #. Do not add spaces unless the official instruction shows spaces. If the code includes a voucher PIN, phone number, or account number, enter it only in the format shown by the official provider.
4. Press the call button
After entering the code, press the green call button or send button. Your phone should connect to the USSD menu and show a response on the screen.
If the menu does not open, check signal, SIM selection, code format, and whether the code is meant for your network.
5. Read the menu carefully
USSD menus usually show numbered options. You may be asked to reply with 1, 2, 3, or another number.
Before replying, check:
| What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| The provider name or service context | To avoid using the wrong menu |
| The option wording | To avoid selecting the wrong service |
| Price or bundle details | To avoid buying the wrong product |
| Validity period | To avoid a bundle expiring sooner than expected |
| Recipient number | To avoid sending airtime, data, or money to the wrong person |
| Confirmation wording | To avoid activating a subscription or paid action by mistake |
If the menu wording is unclear, cancel the session and verify the correct route through the provider’s official website, app, store, branch, or support channel.
6. Reply with the option number
Type the number that matches the option you want and send it. Do not type the full wording of the menu option unless the screen tells you to do so.
For example, if the screen says:
1. Balance2. Buy bundles3. Recharge
You would reply with 1, 2, or 3.
7. Confirm only when the details are correct
Many USSD menus ask for final confirmation before completing an action. This is especially important for airtime purchases, bundle purchases, subscription services, banking actions, airtime transfers, data transfers, or account changes.
Before confirming, check the amount, recipient, product, fee, expiry date, and whether the action is once-off or recurring. If anything looks wrong, cancel the session.
8. Save the confirmation
After a successful USSD action, you may receive an on-screen message or SMS confirmation. Keep it until you have checked that the balance, bundle, recharge, subscription, account change, or support request has updated correctly.
Important Notes Before You Use the Code
Check network and account status
A USSD code may fail if the phone has weak signal, the wrong SIM is selected, the SIM is inactive, the code belongs to another provider, or the service is not available on your account type.
Before retrying, check:
| Check | What to do |
|---|---|
| Signal | Move to a place with better reception |
| Dual-SIM setting | Make sure the correct SIM is selected |
| Provider | Confirm the code is for your network or service |
| Code format | Check every *, number, and # |
| Account status | Make sure your SIM, bank profile, or service account is active |
| Menu timing | Respond before the session expires |
Retry safely
If a USSD code does not work, do not keep repeating a paid action. Retry once after checking the code and signal. If the code still fails, use /ussd-code-not-working/ for troubleshooting.
Common reasons USSD codes fail include weak signal, expired menu sessions, wrong provider codes, inactive SIMs, overloaded network menus, or changed menu paths.
Stop if the menu looks suspicious
USSD is useful, but it can also be used in scams. The Banking Association South Africa warns that criminals may use fake USSD menus, social engineering, SIM-swap tactics, and other methods to steal personal or banking information. It specifically warns users not to share PINs, OTPs, or passwords, and to avoid USSD codes received from untrusted sources. (The Banking Association South Africa)
Cancel the session if:
| Warning sign | Safer action |
|---|---|
| The code came from a stranger, forwarded SMS, WhatsApp message, or social post | Verify it through the official provider |
| The menu promises free money, refunds, prizes, jobs, or grants | Treat it as suspicious until verified |
| The menu asks for a banking PIN, OTP, password, or sensitive detail unexpectedly | Stop and contact the official provider |
| The wording looks rushed, threatening, or designed to create panic | Cancel and verify |
| The code does not match the official provider source | Do not continue |
Be careful with banking and personal-information actions
For banking, grants, identity checks, tax, UIF, or any service involving personal information, use only verified official channels. Do not use a third-party number, screenshot, or copied code as proof that a USSD route is safe.
A safe USSD session should be expected, clearly branded, and consistent with the provider’s own guidance. If you are unsure, use the official app, website, branch, store, or support route instead.
Check costs, limits, and expiry rules before confirming
Opening a USSD menu may be different from completing an action inside the menu. A menu may lead to a paid bundle, recharge, transfer, subscription, emergency airtime option, bank action, or account change.
Before confirming, check:
| Item | Why to verify |
|---|---|
| Fee | Some actions may carry charges |
| Bundle price | Prices can change |
| Validity | Data, voice, SMS, or promo bundles may expire |
| Eligibility | Some offers only appear for qualifying customers |
| Transfer limit | Airtime or data transfer rules may apply |
| Subscription status | Some content services may renew |
| Support route | You need the official route if something goes wrong |
MTN’s published pages show that some services and bundles are accessed through USSD routes such as *136*2#, while Telkom’s official pages show *180# and *188# being used for self-service, bundles, recharge, and balance-related actions. These examples show why users should read each menu screen before accepting. (MTN)
Escalate through the right route
If a USSD issue involves billing, lost airtime, failed bundles, poor service, network problems, or unresolved mobile-service complaints, contact the service provider first.
ICASA says it handles complaints against telecommunications service providers, including quality-of-service complaints and complaints about billing of data, voice, and international roaming services. ICASA also says consumer complaints must be in writing and can be lodged directly on its website or by using its complaint form. (ICASA)
Keep proof before escalating, including screenshots, SMS confirmations, dates, times, reference numbers, the number dialled, and the provider’s response.
Related Codes and Alternatives
USSD is not always the best option. Choose the safest route for the task.
| Need | USSD route | Safer or clearer alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Learn the basics | /what-is-a-ussd-code/ | Provider help page |
| Find South African codes | /ussd-codes-south-africa/ | Official provider website |
| Fix a failed code | /ussd-code-not-working/ | Provider app, store, or support |
| Check airtime or data | Verified provider USSD | Provider app, SMS, IVR, or website |
| Buy bundles | Verified provider menu | App, website, bank app, ATM, store |
| Manage subscriptions | Official provider route | Provider app or customer care |
| Handle bank actions | Official bank USSD only | Banking app, branch, card support |
| Escalate telecom complaints | Provider support first | ICASA, where applicable |
Vodacom, Cell C, and Telkom all list non-USSD alternatives such as apps, web self-service, IVR, SMS, WhatsApp, customer support, or online portals for some account and balance tasks. (Vodacom)
FAQs
What is how to use USSD codes used for?
This guide is used to learn how to dial a USSD code, how to enter a USSD code correctly, how to follow the menu, and how to avoid unsafe actions. It helps South African users use USSD more confidently without turning this page into a full code directory.
How do I dial a USSD code?
Open your phone dialler, type the full code exactly as shown, press the call button, wait for the menu, then reply with the number that matches the option you want.
How do I enter a USSD code?
Enter the code using the phone keypad. Most USSD codes begin with * and end with #. For example, Vodacom uses *135#as a self-service USSD route, MTN lists *136# routes, Cell C lists *101# and *147# routes, and Telkom lists *180# and *188#routes for common self-service or balance tasks. (Vodacom)
Is there one code for how to use USSD codes?
No. There is no single universal USSD code for all services. Each provider, bank, retailer, or public-service route has its own code or menu. Always check the latest official source before using or publishing a code.
Does a USSD code need airtime or data?
USSD does not work like normal web browsing, but charges and access rules can differ by provider and by action. Telkom says its *180# USSD journey can be used with no airtime or data for that specific route, but users should still check the current provider terms before confirming any purchase, subscription, recharge, or account action. (Telkom InTouch)
Can I use USSD codes on a basic phone?
Yes. USSD is entered through the normal phone keypad, so it can be used on many basic phones as well as smartphones. The important step is to enter the full code correctly and follow the menu before the session expires.
What should I do if the USSD code does not work?
Check your signal, SIM selection, code format, provider, and account status. Retry once if it is a simple menu request. If the problem continues, read /ussd-code-not-working/ and then use the provider’s official support route.
Are USSD codes safe?
USSD codes can be safe when they are verified and used carefully. They become risky when they come from fake messages, social posts, unknown callers, or phishing attempts. Do not enter an OTP, banking PIN, password, or sensitive personal detail into an unexpected USSD prompt. The Banking Association South Africa warns that criminals can use fake USSD menus and social engineering to steal information. (The Banking Association South Africa)
Where can I find related USSD codes?
Use /ussd-codes-south-africa/ for a broader South African directory. Use /what-is-a-ussd-code/ for a plain-language explanation. Use /ussd-code-not-working/ if a code times out, fails, or gives an error.
Are there costs, limits, or eligibility rules for USSD codes?
Sometimes. A USSD menu may lead to a paid product, subscription, transfer, emergency airtime option, bank action, or account change. Costs, limits, expiry periods, and eligibility rules must be checked with the official provider before publishing or confirming the action.
What is the safest way to use USSD codes?
Use only verified codes, read every screen, avoid rushed confirmations, keep SMS receipts, and stop if the menu asks for unexpected personal or banking information. For risky actions, use the official app, website, branch, store, or support channel instead.