USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data)

What is USSD?

Mobile banking has revolutionized the entire banking system and has brought the bank to our phones. We can now check the account balance, receive a mini statement and do a fund transfer using mobile banking.

However, you need to have access to a smartphone and internet to use mobile banking services. A large part of the Indian population does not have access to both of these. USSD is the solution for this population segment as they can just dial *99# from their mobile devices and enjoy the services of mobile banking without internet connection or a smartphone. All leading banks support USSD.

USSD codes connect directly to a bank’s server and provide access to your bank account and transaction execution. The criteria for entry is based on the mobile number you have registered with the bank. Therefore, all USSD transactions must happen through your registered mobile number.

The specific number *99# is fixed to access banking services via USSD. This number works across all banks.

USSD Codes for Different Languages

For customers' convenience, USSD code is available in many languages. Currently, USSD is available in 10 regional languages. The supported languages and their codes are as follows:

Services Performed through USSD

Charges and Transaction Limit for USSD Banking

The telecom service providers charge the customers for using NUUP services. The TRAI has set a maximum limit of ₹1.50 per transaction. However, you should contact your telecom service operator to confirm the exact charges. The transaction limit for NUUP is set to ₹5000 per transaction by RBI (Reserve Bank of India).

How To Use USSD Code for Banking?

To begin with USSD Banking, your mobile number has to be registered with the bank. If your mobile number is already registered, then you can directly dial *99#

Steps for USSD-based Banking

Step 1 : Dial *99# from your registered mobile number

Step 2 : Enter the three-letter abbreviation of your bank's name or the first four letters of bank's IFSC or the first two digits of the bank’s numeric code. Once you have done that, hit 'send' or press the 'call' button.

Step 3 : The options for the available services will be displayed. These options may vary from bank to bank, depending on the services that the concerned bank offers. Most banks provide the following options: