Tired of long queues or slow banking apps? Access Bank has made financial transactions easier than ever through its innovative USSD codes, allowing customers to perform a variety of banking activities directly from their mobile devices.
USSD banking can save you a lot of stress. With Access Bank USSD (*901#), you can send money, buy airtime, pay bills, and check your balance straight from your phone. No data. No smartphone needed.
You only need the phone number linked to your Access Bank account and a simple code. This guide breaks down how *901# works, the main USSD codes for common transactions, and how to stay safe while using them.
Whether you need to check your account balance, transfer funds, or pay bills, the simple dialing of *901# opens up a world of banking possibilities at your fingertips.
If you like banking on the go, this is for you.
Read: How to register for Access bank internet banking and accessmore mobile app
What Is Access Bank USSD and Why Use *901# for Transactions?
USSD banking uses short codes on your phone to talk to your bank. You dial a code, see a menu on your screen, reply with simple numbers, and your transaction goes through. It feels a bit like sending a text, but everything happens in real time.
For Access Bank customers, the main code is *901#. It works on most Nigerian networks, such as MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile. You do not need an internet connection, which makes it useful if your data is off or your area has poor network for browsing.
The biggest advantage is speed. You can send money or buy airtime in less than a minute. That helps when you are in a bus, at the market, or dealing with an emergency.
USSD banking also helps people who do not use smartphones. As long as your phone can call and send texts, you can use *901#. This includes basic “torchlight” phones.
Access Bank USSD is safe if you use it the right way. The bank uses a personal USSD PIN to protect your account. As long as you keep that PIN secret and use it on your own phone, your money stays secure.
You can use *901# anytime, 24/7, even on weekends and public holidays. So when the banking hall is closed and your app is misbehaving, your USSD banking is still ready.
How Access Bank *901# USSD Banking Works on Any Phone
Here is what usually happens when you dial *901# on the phone number linked to your Access Bank account:
- You dial *901# and press the call button.
- A menu appears on your screen. It contains options like:
- Transfers
- Airtime
- Pay bills
- Balance inquiry
- Other services
- You reply by typing the number for the service you want. For example, reply 1 for transfers.
- The next screen asks for more details. That could be amount, account number, or phone number.
- You confirm the details, then enter your USSD PIN.
- You get a success message. In some cases, you also get an SMS alert.
Normal network charges may apply, depending on your mobile provider. The cost is usually small, but it is good to keep some airtime on your line.
The menus can change from time to time, but the process stays the same. Dial *901#, choose an option, confirm details, and enter your PIN.
Read: How to Register for Access bank ussd code
Key Benefits of Using Access Bank USSD for Daily Transactions
USSD banking with *901# comes with several useful benefits:
- Speed: You can complete a transaction in a few seconds. No waiting for pages to load.
- No data needed: Your phone can be offline, and it will still work.
- Works on simple phones: You do not need a smartphone. Any phone that can make calls can use *901#.
- Useful in poor internet areas: Even if mobile data is slow, USSD often still works, since it runs on the voice network.
- Good in emergencies: Imagine your child needs airtime to call you, or you must send money for quick treatment. You pick up your phone, dial the code, and the money or airtime moves fast.
USSD is like having a small branch of the bank in your pocket. It fits busy workers, students, traders, and anyone who wants quick control over their money.
All Access Bank USSD Codes for Common Transactions with *901#
This is where *901# becomes very practical. Once you know a few common codes, your daily banking becomes much easier.
Note: Banks sometimes update their USSD menus and fees. If a screen looks different from what you expect, follow the prompts or confirm with Access Bank.
How to Activate Access Bank USSD (*901#) on Your Phone
Before you use *901#, you need to activate USSD on the phone number that is linked to your Access Bank account.
Follow these steps:
- Make sure your SIM card is the one registered with your Access Bank account.
- Dial *901#.
- From the menu, select the option related to registration or “create PIN.”
- Enter your account number when asked.
- Create a 4 to 6 digit USSD PIN. Pick something you can remember but others cannot guess.
- Confirm the PIN.
After activation, you will use this PIN to approve your USSD transactions.
Avoid simple patterns like 1234, 1111, 0000, or your birth year. Do not share this PIN with anyone, not even bank staff or family members.
Read: How to register for Wells Fargo Online Banking and Mobile App
USSD Code for Checking Access Bank Account Balance and Mini Statement
To check your Access Bank balance quickly, use:
- *901*00#
Dial the code from your registered phone line. You will be asked to enter your USSD PIN. After that, your current account balance will show on the screen, and in some cases you might receive an SMS too.
Network or USSD fees may apply, based on your mobile operator.
For a mini statement or recent transactions, dial *901# and look for a menu option like:
- “Other services” or “Additional options”
- Then “Mini statement” or “Transaction history”
Select the option, enter your PIN, and follow the prompts. The bank may send recent transactions to you by SMS.
USSD Codes for Sending Money from Access Bank to Any Bank
You can send money using Access Bank USSD to both Access Bank accounts and other banks in Nigeria.
Common patterns are:
Transfer to an Access Bank account
Simply dial *901*AMOUNT*NUBAN Account Number# (e.g: *901*1000*1234512345#) from your phone number. Authenticate using a four (4) digit security code. You can create a security code using the Menu option.
- To transfer to another Access Bank account: *901*1*Amount*AccountNumber#
- To transfer to other banks: *901*2*Amount*AccountNumber#
For example, to send ₦2,000 to an Access Bank account 0123456789, you dial:
- *901*1*20000*123456789#
After this, you will see a screen asking you to choose the destination bank (if needed) and confirm the receiver’s name. Always read the name carefully. If the name is wrong, cancel the transaction.
Dial *901*AMOUNT*NUBAN Account Number# (e.g *901*1000*1234512345#) from your phone. Authenticate using a four (4) digit security code. You can create a security code using the Menu option.
Once you confirm the details, enter your USSD PIN. You will get a message that the transfer is successful.
Access Bank, like other banks, has daily transfer limits on USSD. These limits help protect your account in case someone gets your PIN. If you need to move a very large amount, you may have to use the app, internet banking, or visit a branch.
USSD Codes for Buying Airtime and Data from Your Access Bank Account
Buying airtime with *901# is one of the fastest features.
Here are the common codes:
- To buy airtime for your own number (the registered line): *901*Amount#
- To buy airtime for another phone number: *901*Amount*PhoneNumber#
For example:
- To buy ₦500 airtime for yourself: *901*500#
- To buy ₦1,000 airtime for a friend using 08031234567: *901*1000*08031234567#
It works for major networks in Nigeria, such as MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile.
Some USSD menus also support data bundles. In that case, dial *901#, pick “Airtime/Data,” then choose the network and data plan you want.
Airtime and data purchases are usually instant and non refundable. Always double check the phone number and amount before you enter your PIN.
Paying Bills and Other Services with Access Bank USSD
You can also pay bills through the *901# menu. This includes:
- TV subscriptions like DSTV, GOtv, and StarTimes
- Electricity bills from different DisCos
- Some betting or online service wallets
The steps usually look like this:
- Dial *901#.
- Select “Pay bills” or a similar option.
- Choose the type of bill, such as “Cable TV” or “Electricity.”
- Pick the biller, for example DSTV, GOtv, or your power company.
- Enter your customer ID, smartcard number, or meter number.
- Confirm the customer name or address shown on the screen.
- Enter the amount (if required).
- Enter your USSD PIN to complete payment.
Have your smartcard number, customer ID, or meter number ready before you start. That saves time and reduces mistakes.
Read: Absa Cellphone Banking : How to register , buy airtime and data and transfer money
How to block access bank account
To block your Access Bank account instantly, dial the USSD code *901*911# from any mobile phone. This service allows you to lock your account if your ATM card, phone, or banking details are compromised.
Steps to Block Your Access Bank Account
- From any phone, dial: ∗901∗911#
- Select the option to block your account.
- Enter your phone number linked to the account.
- Confirm the action.
- Account is Blocked
- Once confirmed, your Access Bank account will be locked immediately.
- This prevents unauthorized transactions until you visit a branch to reactivate.
How to Open An Access bank Account using ussd
You can open an Access Bank account instantly using USSD on any mobile phone, without needing internet access.
Steps to Open an Access Bank Account via USSD
- On your phone, dial: *901*0#
- This works on all networks in Nigeria.
- Select the option to open an account.
- Enter your first name, last name, and date of birth.
- Provide your BVN (Bank Verification Number) if you have one (this helps link your identity).
- If you don’t have a BVN, you can still open a basic account but with transaction limits.
- After completing the steps, your new Access Bank account number will be sent to you via SMS.
- Activate and Fund Your Account
- Deposit money into the account at any Access Bank branch, agent, or via transfer.
- You can also request a debit card at the branch.
You can check your Access Bank statement of account through several convenient channels depending on whether you prefer mobile, online, or physical access:
1. USSD Code
- Dial: *901*5#
- Follow the prompts to view your mini statement (recent transactions).
- Works on any phone, no internet required.
2. Access More Mobile App
- Download the Access More App (Android/iOS).
- Log in with your account details.
- Navigate to Accounts → Statements.
- You can view, download, or email your statement directly.
3. Internet Banking
- Visit Access Bank Internet Banking.
- Log in with your credentials.
- Go to Accounts → Account Statement.
- You can generate statements for specific dates and download them as PDF.
4. Branch Request
- Visit any Access Bank branch.
- Request a printed statement of account from customer service.
- Useful if you need a stamped copy for official purposes.
5. Email Statement Service
- Access Bank can send monthly e-statements to your registered email.
- You can request activation of this service at a branch or via customer care.
Access bank cardless withdrawal
You can make a cardless withdrawal from Access Bank ATMs using your phone, without needing your debit card. This is very useful if you forgot your card or it was lost.
Steps for Access Bank Cardless Withdrawal
Dial: *901#
- Select “Cardless Withdrawal”.
- Enter the amount you want to withdraw.
- You’ll receive a Paycode (transaction code) via SMS.
2. At the ATM
- Visit any Access Bank ATM.
- Press Enter or select Paycode/Cardless Withdrawal option.
- Enter your Paycode, amount, and phone number.
- The ATM dispenses your cash instantly.
Important Safety Tips for Using *901# USSD Banking
Keep these safety points in mind:
- Never share your USSD PIN with anyone, not even someone who claims to be from the bank.
- Use a strong PIN that others cannot guess. Avoid birthdays, phone numbers, or repeated digits.
- Always read and confirm the receiver’s name before you send money.
- Do not enter your PIN when someone is watching your screen closely.
- Keep your phone locked with a password, pattern, or fingerprint.
- Do not save your USSD PIN in your phone contacts or notes.
Treat your USSD PIN like the key to your house. If it gets into the wrong hands, your money is at risk.