Have you ever needed your Access Bank account number urgently but had no internet, no bank app, and only your phone in hand? Many people face this problem every day, especially when filling forms, receiving payments, or transferring money.
The good news is that Access Bank provides a simple solution through their USSD code system. With just a few taps on your phone, you can quickly retrieve your account number without visiting a branch or using data. In this guide, we will walk you through exactly how to use the Access Bank USSD code for account number retrieval, along with useful tips, alternative methods, and precautions to make the process smooth and secure.
Why You Might Need to Retrieve Your Access Bank Account Number
Common Scenarios you May Need Your Access Bank Account Number
It’s easy to forget your account number (NUBAN) if you rarely need it. You might need it when:
- Filling online or offline forms that require your bank account.
- Receiving salary or payments from employers, clients, or friends.
- Making transfers to other banks.
- You are using a feature phone without access to apps or internet banking.
Why USSD Retrieval is Practical
Using USSD to retrieve your Access Bank account number is practical because:
- You do not need internet or data.
- The process is fast and can be done anywhere.
- It works even on basic phones without smartphones.
- It is officially supported by Access Bank.
What is Access Bank’s USSD Code and How It Works
Overview of *901# Banking Platform
Access Bank’s main USSD platform is *901#, which allows customers to perform banking transactions directly from their mobile phones. Through this code, you can:
- Check account balance
- Transfer funds to other accounts
- Buy airtime and data
- Open new accounts
- Retrieve your account number
Other Common USSD Functions
Besides retrieving your account number, *901# lets you do:
- Balance Inquiry: *901*00#
- Transfer Money: *901*Amount*Account#
- Open New Account: *901*0#
- Buy Airtime/Data: *901*2#
Step-by-step Guide: How to Get Your Access Bank Account Number via USSD
Requirements
Before you start, make sure you have:
- A phone number linked to your Access Bank account.
- A 4-digit USSD PIN (set during registration).
- A small amount of airtime (≈ ₦6.98 per session).
Actual Steps
- Dial *901# from the phone number linked to your account.
- Select Other Services from the menu.
- Choose Enquiry Services or Account Number Enquiry.
- Enter your 4-digit USSD PIN when prompted.
- Your 10-digit Access Bank account number (NUBAN) will be displayed on the screen.
- Optionally, you may receive an SMS with your account number.
What Happens After
Once retrieved, write down your account number in a safe place or save it on your phone securely. Avoid sharing it with anyone to prevent fraud or unauthorized access to your account.
Costs, Limitations and What to Watch Out For
USSD Charges
Each session using *901# incurs a small fee of approximately ₦6.98, depending on your telecom provider. This covers all USSD banking activities, including account number retrieval.
Requirements
- The USSD service works only if the phone number is linked to your Access Bank account.
- You must have a USSD PIN set up. If you forgot it, you may need to visit a branch to reset it.
When USSD May Not Work
- Using a SIM not registered with your bank account.
- Incorrect PIN entry.
- Temporary network or service issues.
Alternative Ways to Retrieve Access Bank Account Number
Using AccessMore Mobile App
Download the AccessMore app on your smartphone. Log in with your credentials, and your account number is displayed on the home screen or account section. Learn more on How to Check Bank Balance on Phone in Nigeria (2025 Guide)
Internet / Online Banking
Access Bank’s online banking platform shows your account number once you log in with your credentials.
ATM / Bank Statement / Branch
- ATM: Insert your card, enter PIN, select “Account Information” → “Account Number”.
- Bank Statement: Your account number appears at the top of every statement.
- Branch Visit: Go to any Access Bank branch with valid ID, and a teller can provide your account number.
Customer Care / Bank Support
Call Access Bank customer care at 0700 522 522 522 for assistance with account number retrieval if USSD is not convenient.
Step-by-step Comparison Table: USSD vs App vs ATM vs Branch
| Method | Internet Required? | Time | Cost | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USSD (*901#) | No | 2–3 min | ≈ ₦6.98 per session | Very convenient for feature phones or low-data areas |
| AccessMore App | Yes | 1–2 min | Free | Convenient for smartphone users |
| ATM | No | 3–5 min | Free / depends on bank policy | Convenient but requires card and location access |
| Bank Branch | No | 10–30 min | Free | Least convenient but secure |
Tips for Secure and Hassle-Free Account Number Retrieval
Ensure Correct Phone Number & SIM
Always use the phone number linked to your Access Bank account. A wrong number will prevent you from retrieving your account number via USSD.
Set a Strong USSD PIN
Pick a PIN that is not easy to guess and never share it with anyone. This prevents unauthorized access to your account info.
Save Account Number Securely
After retrieval, write it down in a secure place or save it in a secure note on your phone. Avoid storing it in easily accessible locations to prevent fraud.
FAQs
Is it free to retrieve my Access Bank account number using *901#?
No, it costs approximately ₦6.98 per USSD session.
What if I changed my SIM or phone number?
You must use the phone number linked to your bank account. If you changed your number, update your bank records first.
Can USSD send my account number via SMS?
Yes, in some cases the system also sends an SMS with your account number.
Can I use USSD to retrieve someone else’s account number?
No, USSD retrieval only works for accounts linked to your phone number for security reasons.
What should I do if I forgot my USSD PIN?
You need to visit a branch or contact customer care to reset your USSD PIN before you can retrieve your account number.
Are there alternatives if I don’t have a smartphone?
Yes, you can use USSD (*901#), visit an ATM, or go to a branch.
Is USSD safe to use for banking?
Yes, it is secure as long as you do not share your PIN and always use the phone linked to your account.
Using Access Bank USSD code for account number retrieval is simple, fast, and convenient, especially for customers without internet access. Whether you choose USSD, the mobile app, ATM, or branch, always follow security precautions to protect your account.
For official details, visit the Access Bank USSD page.