Ackermans USSD Code

Quick Answer

The current official Ackermans USSD code in South Africa is *130*602#. Last verified: July 2026.

This toll-free self-service string allows existing and prospective Ackermans customers to access specific account services directly from their mobile phones without requiring mobile data or airtime. Primary tasks supported through this USSD string include applying for an A+ store credit limit increase, checking lay-by balance details, and participating in official store promotions or competitions.

For comprehensive account balance inquiries, monthly statements, or account payments, users are directed to use the official website, online portal, or customer service channels managed by Tenacity Financial Services.

What the Service Is and Who Can Use It

The Ackermans USSD service is a cellular self-service tool designed for Ackermans store account holders and lay-by customers in South Africa. It operates on basic feature phones as well as smartphones across all major South African mobile networks (Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, and Cell C).

Supported Tasks

• Credit Limit Increase: Request an evaluation for an increase on an active Ackermans A+ credit account.
• Lay-by Balance Check: View outstanding balances and payment details for active in-store lay-bys.
• Promotional Entries: Enter official Ackermans competitions using purchase or account details.

Eligibility & Prerequisites

• Registered Cellphone Number: You must dial the USSD code from the primary mobile phone number linked to your Ackermans A+ account or lay-by profile.
• Active Account or Lay-by: To request credit limit adjustments or check balances, you must have an existing profile with Ackermans / Tenacity Financial Services.
• South African Mobile Network: The code is designed for local SIM cards operating within South Africa.

How to Access the Service

Before You Start

• Ensure your SIM card is active and registered with the same mobile number recorded on your Ackermans store account or lay-by slip.
• Have your 16-digit Ackermans A+ account card number or South African ID number ready in case prompted for verification.
• Note that no data or airtime is required, as dialing *130*602# is free of charge.

Verified Step-by-Step Process

1. Open the phone/dialer app on your mobile phone.
2. Key in *130*602# and press the Call / Dial button.
3. Wait for the interactive USSD main menu to appear on your screen.
4. Select the desired menu option by entering the corresponding number:
   • Option 1: Credit Limit Increase Application.
   • Lay-by Service: Follow the prompts to check active lay-by balance.
   • Promotions/Competitions: Select the relevant competition option when campaigns are active.
5. Follow the step-by-step prompts to confirm your identity or submit your request.

Confirmation or Expected Result

• Limit Increase Request: A confirmation message will display on your screen indicating that your application has been received. You will subsequently receive an SMS detailing whether your limit increase was approved or if additional documentation (such as proof of income) is required.
• Lay-by Inquiry: An on-screen pop-up or SMS summary displaying your current outstanding lay-by balance and due dates.
• Recovery Route: If you do not receive an expected SMS confirmation or if the session disconnects mid-transaction, wait 5 minutes before retrying or contact Ackermans Customer Service at 0860 900 100.

Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors

• “Connection Problem or Invalid MMI Code”: This usually occurs due to poor signal or network congestion. Switch Airplane Mode on and off, or restart your handset and redial *130*602#.
• “Session Timed Out”: USSD sessions automatically terminate after 20–30 seconds of inactivity. Re-dial the code and enter your responses more quickly.
• “Number Not Recognized”: If the system states your cell number is not linked to an account, ensure you are using the exact SIM card registered when opening your Ackermans A+ account or starting your lay-by.

When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable

If *130*602# is temporarily down or undergoing maintenance:

1. Network Outages: Try changing your network mode (e.g., from LTE/5G to 3G/2G) to complete USSD requests.
2. Account Updates: If your mobile number has changed, visit an Ackermans store with your RSA ID to update your profile details before attempting USSD self-service.

Official Alternatives

When USSD self-service is unavailable or when completing tasks not supported in the USSD menu (such as full account statement downloads or making payments), use these official channels:

• In-Store Till Points: Visit any Ackermans store nationwide to check lay-by balances, pay account installments, or apply for credit limit increases.
• Ackermans Online Portal: Visit the official Ackermans Website to manage your profile or apply for accounts online.
• Ozow Instant EFT: Pay your Ackermans account securely online using your 16-digit store card number as the reference.
• Tenacity Financial Services Call Centre: Call 0860 900 100 (South Africa) or +27 21 928 1040 (International) for store card queries, limit reviews, and balance statements.
• Adjacent Payment & Retail Services: For related retailer and financial USSD services, refer to our guides on Payment USSD Codes, Foneyam USSD Code, DStv USSD Code, Mukuru USSD Code, Blu Voucher USSD Code, and Send Money USSD Codes.

Safety and Privacy

Important Security Warning:

Ackermans and Tenacity Financial Services will never ask for your ATM PIN, bank account password, or card CVV via USSD, phone calls, or SMS.

• Protect Sensitive Credentials: Never share One-Time PINs (OTPs), voucher PINs, or account login passwords with anyone calling or messaging you.
• Verify the String: Always double-check that you are dialing *130*602# and avoid dialing third-party or unverified numbers promising instant credit increases.
• Reporting Scams: If you suspect fraudulent activity on your account or received a suspicious message, contact Tenacity Fraud Support or Customer Care immediately at 0860 900 100.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current Ackermans USSD Code?

The current official Ackermans USSD code is *130*602#. It is a free-to-dial service used for credit limit increase requests, checking lay-by balances, and entering store competitions.

What is the current official code or menu?

Dialing *130*602# opens the primary Ackermans interactive self-service menu. From there, option 1 handles credit limit increases for A+ store account holders.

Which customers or account types can use it?

Any customer with a registered South African mobile number linked to an active Ackermans A+ store account or active lay-by profile can use the USSD service.

What tasks are available in the menu?

The USSD menu supports submitting limit increase applications, verifying lay-by balances, and entering official promotional campaigns. Full monthly statements and direct electronic account payments must be completed via bank EFT, Ozow, or in-store.

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

If the USSD code fails to connect, verify that you are using the mobile number registered to your account. Alternatively, contact Ackermans Customer Service at 0860 900 100, use the online account portal, or visit the customer service desk at any Ackermans store.