The primary Ecobank USSD code is *326#, which allows customers to carry out banking transactions directly from their mobile phones without internet access. By dialing *326#, you can access a menu-based service to transfer money, buy airtime, check account balance, pay bills, and more.
For example, dial *326*0# to check your account balance, *326*Amount# to buy airtime for yourself, or follow the on-screen menu after dialing *326# to transfer money to any bank in Nigeria.
Ecobank USSD works on all mobile phones and Nigerian networks, making it ideal for offline banking.
Popular Ecobank USSD Codes and Their Functions
| Service | USSD Code |
|---|---|
| Ecobank Main Menu | *326# |
| Check Account Balance | 3260# |
| Transfer Money | *326# → Transfers |
| Buy Airtime for Self | 326Amount# |
| Buy Airtime for Others | 326Amount*PhoneNumber# |
| Pay Bills | *326# → Pay Bills |
| Open Ecobank Xpress Account | *326# → Open Account |
| Block Account | *326# → Security Options |
These codes allow quick management of your Ecobank account without internet. Always dial from your registered phone number and keep your PIN secure.
About Ecobank
Ecobank Nigeria is part of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, one of Africa’s largest banking groups operating in over 30 countries. The bank offers retail, corporate, and digital banking services including transfers, bill payments, savings, loans, and mobile banking.
While the Ecobank Mobile App provides advanced features, *Ecobank USSD (326#) remains a reliable alternative when internet access is poor or unavailable.
This guide explains all Ecobank USSD codes, how to activate USSD banking, charges, common errors, security tips, and everything you need for seamless offline transactions.
What Is Ecobank USSD?
Ecobank USSD is a mobile banking service that allows customers to perform financial transactions by dialing short codes on their phones, without using mobile data.
USSD banking is ideal when you:
- Have no or slow internet connection
- Need urgent money transfers
- Want quick airtime recharge
- Cannot access the Ecobank app
- Use a basic feature phone
USSD is fast, secure, and works on all Nigerian SIM cards.
Main Ecobank USSD Code in Nigeria (2026)
The official Ecobank USSD code is *326#.
After dialing *326#, you can access Ecobank’s USSD menu for transfers, airtime purchases, bill payments, balance checks, and account services.
Most used Ecobank USSD codes:
- *326# — Main USSD menu
- 3260# — Check account balance
- 326Amount# — Buy airtime for yourself
- 326Amount*PhoneNumber# — Buy airtime for others
- *326# → Transfers — Send money
- *326# → Pay Bills — Utility payments
- *326# → Open Account — Ecobank Xpress account
How to Activate Ecobank USSD Banking
To use Ecobank USSD:
- Have an active Ecobank account (or open one via *326#)
- Use the phone number linked to your account
- Ensure good network signal
- Dial *326#
- Set up a 4-digit USSD PIN when prompted
Once activated, you can carry out transactions anytime without internet.
Full Breakdown of Ecobank USSD Codes and Their Uses
1. Ecobank Code for Transfers
To transfer money:
- Dial *326#
- Select Transfers
- Choose Ecobank or other banks
- Enter amount and recipient details
- Confirm with your PIN
Transfers work with all Nigerian banks including Access, GTBank, Zenith, First Bank, UBA, and others.
2. Ecobank Code for Airtime
For Self:
Dial 326Amount#
Example: 326300# to recharge ₦300
For Others:
Dial 326AmountPhoneNumber#
Example: 32650008012345678#
Airtime is credited instantly.
3. Ecobank Code for Account Balance
To check your balance:
Dial *326*0#
Enter your PIN if prompted.
4. Ecobank Code for Utility and Bill Payments
Dial *326# and select Pay Bills to pay for:
- Electricity (DISCO/PHCN)
- DSTV, GOTV, Startimes
- Mobile data subscriptions
- Other supported services
Follow the prompts to complete payment.
5. Code to Block Ecobank Account
If your phone is lost or stolen:
- Dial *326#
- Select Security / Block Account
- Follow the instructions
This immediately secures your account against fraud.
Why Ecobank USSD Is Popular
Ecobank USSD is widely used because it:
- Works without internet
- Is fast and reliable
- Supports MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9Mobile
- Works on all phones
- Is secured with PIN protection
- Is available 24/7
How to Set or Reset Your Ecobank USSD PIN
First-time setup:
- Dial *326#
- Choose Create PIN
- Enter a 4-digit PIN
- Confirm
Reset PIN:
- Dial *326#
- Select Forgot PIN
- Verify your identity
- Set a new PIN
Always keep your PIN private.
Ecobank USSD and Transaction Charges
- Dialing *326# is free
- Network providers may charge a USSD fee (₦6–₦7 per session)
- Transfer fees apply based on standard bank charges
- Airtime purchases usually have no extra charges
Common Ecobank USSD Errors and How to Fix Them
- USSD code not working: Check network or use registered SIM
- Incorrect PIN: Reset via *326#
- Insufficient funds: Fund your account
- Transaction timeout: Retry in a stronger network area
- Transaction failed: Confirm details and retry
How to Use Ecobank USSD Without the App
If the Ecobank app is unavailable:
- Dial *326# from your registered number
- You can still:
- Check balance
- Send money
- Buy airtime
- Pay bills
- Open an account
- Secure your account
USSD is a reliable backup to the mobile app.
Is Ecobank USSD Safe?
Yes. Ecobank USSD is secured with:
- 4-digit PIN
- SIM-based authentication
- Account blocking options
Safety tips:
- Never share your PIN
- Do not allow strangers use your phone
- Block your account immediately if phone is lost
- Always use your registered SIM
Benefits of Using Ecobank USSD
- Works offline
- Fast transactions
- No app required
- Works on any phone
- Useful during emergencies
- Ideal for rural areas
Limitations of Ecobank USSD
- Some advanced features require the app
- Network USSD charges may apply
- Sessions may timeout during peak hours
- Cannot manage complex services like investments
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main Ecobank USSD code?
*326#
Why is my Ecobank USSD not working?
Network issues, wrong SIM, or service downtime
How do I check my Ecobank balance?
Dial 3260#
Can I transfer money without the app?
Yes, dial *326# and select Transfers
How do I block my Ecobank account?
Dial *326# and choose security options
Does Ecobank USSD work on all networks?
Yes — MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9Mobile
Is Ecobank USSD free?
Dialing is free; network charges may apply
Conclusion
Ecobank USSD codes make offline banking simple and reliable in Nigeria. With *326#, you can transfer money, buy airtime, check balances, pay bills, and manage your account without internet access.
Whether you’re using a basic phone, experiencing poor network, or your app isn’t working, Ecobank USSD remains a fast and secure way to bank in Nigeria (2026).
