USSD Code for Airtime – Access Bank (Nigeria & South Africa Context)
Access Bank customers can conveniently buy airtime and manage basic transactions using USSD codes directly from their mobile phones. This guide explains the USSD code for airtime on Access Bank Nigeria, how USSD works generally in South Africa, and what to know when using these services.
What Is a USSD Code?
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a quick, text-based way to interact with your bank or mobile network. It works on any GSM mobile phone (smartphone or basic handset) without needing data or an app.
Key points:
- Works via short codes starting with
*and ending with# - Does not need mobile data or Wi‑Fi
- Ideal for airtime top-up, balance checks, transfers, and bill payments
- Widely used across Nigeria and South Africa for basic mobile banking
USSD Code for Airtime – Access Bank Nigeria
For Access Bank Nigeria customers, you can buy airtime from your Access Bank account using the bank’s official USSD short code.
1. Register for Access Bank USSD (*901#)
Before you can buy airtime, you must be registered for Access Bank’s USSD banking on the phone number linked to your account.
- Dial
*901#on the phone number registered with your Access Bank account - Follow the on-screen instructions to:
- Select your preferred account
- Create a 4–6 digit USSD PIN
- Your PIN will be used to authorise most transactions
You can confirm and learn more about Access Bank’s USSD banking on their official mobile banking page:
https://www.accessbankplc.com/personal-banking/ways-to-bank/mobile-banking
2. USSD Code to Buy Airtime for Yourself
To recharge the same phone line you registered with your Access Bank account:
- Dial:
*901*Amount#
Example: To buy ₦500 airtime for your own phone:
*901*500#
The airtime amount is debited from your Access Bank account and credited to your mobile line instantly.
3. USSD Code to Buy Airtime for Another Number
To recharge another mobile number (your family, friend, or a second line):
- Dial:
*901*Amount*RecipientNumber#
Example: To send ₦1,000 airtime to 08031234567:
*901*1000*08031234567#
You will usually be prompted to confirm the transaction and enter your USSD PIN.
4. Supported Networks (Nigeria)
Access Bank’s airtime USSD service generally works with the major Nigerian GSM networks, including:
- MTN
- Glo
- Airtel
- 9mobile
Availability may depend on current bank or network arrangements; always check the most current information directly with Access Bank or via the menu after you dial *901#.
5. Daily Limits and Charges
When using *901# for airtime:
- Daily limits: There is usually a limit to how much airtime you can buy per day via USSD, which may vary by account type or regulations.
- Service fees: Many banks do not charge extra for airtime top-up, but standard USSD or session charges from your mobile network may apply.
For exact limits and fees, refer to Access Bank’s official documentation or contact the bank through verified channels listed on their website:
https://www.accessbankplc.com
Access Bank and USSD Codes in South Africa
The website URL provided (https://www.ussdcode.co.za/`) indicates a **South African** context, where USSD is also widely used for airtime and banking. However, **Access Bank’s USSD airtime code described above (*901#`) is for Access Bank Nigeria.**
In South Africa:
- Airtime top-ups are typically done using:
- Your mobile network’s USSD code (e.g. for Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, Cell C)
- Banking apps
- Card-based top-ups and vouchers
- Some banks and services operate through local South African USSD short codes.
If you are in South Africa and searching for USSD codes for airtime, check:
- Your specific mobile network’s official website
- Your South African bank’s official website or app
Each institution publishes its own USSD short code and menu options.
How to Use USSD Codes Safely
Whether you’re using Access Bank Nigeria or a South African provider, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Protect your USSD PIN
- Never share your PIN with anyone.
- Avoid entering it when someone else is watching.
- Check the code carefully
- Ensure you dial the correct official code (
*901#for Access Bank Nigeria). - Use only numbers published on your bank’s official website or official communication.
- Ensure you dial the correct official code (
- Verify recipient details
- For airtime to another number, confirm the mobile number and amount before final confirmation.
- Monitor your account
- Check your account balance regularly via USSD or mobile banking app.
- Report any suspicious transactions immediately to the bank through verified channels.
Common Issues and How to Resolve Them
1. USSD Code Not Working
Possible reasons:
- You are not dialling from the registered phone number
- Temporary network issues with your mobile operator
- Bank system maintenance or downtime
Try the following:
- Retry later, preferably in an area with stronger mobile signal
- Make sure you’re using the registered SIM card
- If the issue persists, contact Access Bank through details listed on
https://www.accessbankplc.com
2. Airtime Not Credited
If your account has been debited but airtime is not received:
- Wait a few minutes for any delayed processing
- Check that you entered the correct phone number
- If still unresolved, report to Access Bank with:
- Date and time of the transaction
- Amount
- Recipient phone number
Use only the official channels published on the bank’s website for complaints and support.
Summary: USSD Code for Airtime – Access Bank
- Main USSD code (Access Bank Nigeria):
*901# - Buy airtime for your line:
*901*Amount# - Buy airtime for another number:
*901*Amount*RecipientNumber# - Works on major Nigerian mobile networks, as long as the phone number is linked to your Access Bank account and registered for USSD.
For the most accurate and current information, always refer to Access Bank’s official site:
https://www.accessbankplc.com/personal-banking/ways-to-bank/mobile-banking
USSD remains one of the fastest ways to recharge airtime, making it particularly useful when you have no data or access to a mobile app.