Absa Bank USSD Code is *224# (UPDATED for 2025 and 2026)

The Absa Bank USSD code *224# is a direct and reliable way to access your bank account using any mobile phone. It does not require an internet connection or a smartphone app. You can use this service for essential banking tasks, including checking your balance, sending money, paying bills, or buying airtime.

This guide provides clear instructions to help you use the *224# service for your banking needs.

How to Activate the Absa USSD Code Service

Before using the service, you must first activate it on your phone. The registration process links your mobile number to your Absa bank account for security. You will need to be the account holder and have access to the phone number registered with the bank.

Follow these steps for self-registration:

1. Dial *224# on your phone and press the call button.
2. The system will ask you to enter your National ID number.
3. Next, you will need to enter the last four digits of your Absa debit card.
4. You will then be prompted to create a new, secret mobile banking PIN. This is the PIN you will use every time you access the *224# service.
5. Confirm your new PIN to complete the activation process.

If you encounter any issues during this process, you may need to visit your nearest Absa branch for assistance.

How to Check Your Absa Account Balance from Mobile Phone

Getting a quick update on your account funds is the most direct function of the Absa USSD service. This feature is free to use and provides a real-time snapshot of your available money. It is useful for verifying a recent transaction or simply checking your financial position before making a purchase.

Here is the process for viewing your balance:

1. Begin by dialing *224# on your phone.
2. You will need to authenticate the session by entering your secret mobile banking PIN.
3. From the list of options presented, select 'Balance Inquiry'.
4. If you hold multiple accounts (e.g., a current and a savings account), the service will ask you to choose which one you wish to view.
5. Your current account balance will be displayed directly on your screen.

Sending Money from Absa to M-Pesa via USSD Code

The *224# service provides a reliable link between your Absa bank account and the M-Pesa mobile money platform. This allows you to transfer funds directly to any Safaricom user without needing the Absa mobile app. It is a secure method for paying individuals or moving money to your own M-Pesa wallet.

To complete a transfer, follow these steps:

1. Dial *224# and enter your PIN to access the main menu.
2. Look for and select the 'M-Pesa' option.
3. Inside the M-Pesa menu, choose the 'Send to M-Pesa' function.
4. You can send to your own registered number or to someone else. Select 'Another Number' if the recipient is not you.
5. Carefully enter the recipient’s Safaricom phone number and the amount you wish to send.
6. A final confirmation screen will show all the details. It is important to verify the phone number and amount are correct before you confirm the transaction.

How to Settle Utility and Other Bills using ABSA Mobile Banking

The USSD service is a convenient tool for settling common household and business bills without visiting a bank or agent. You can pay for services like KPLC (both postpaid bills and prepaid tokens), Nairobi Water, DStv, and other subscriptions directly from your account.

Before you start, make sure you have the correct business number (Paybill) for the company and your specific account number (e.g., your KPLC meter number or water account number). Having these details ready makes the process much faster.

1. Dial *224# and authenticate with your PIN.
2. From the main menu, find and select the 'Bill Payments' option.
3. The service will present a list of categories. Choose the one that fits your bill, such as 'Utilities' or 'Pay TV'.
4. Select the specific company you intend to pay from the list provided.
5. The system will then ask for your account number with that company. Enter it carefully.
6. Input the exact amount you wish to pay.
7. A summary screen will appear. Review all details to ensure they are correct before you confirm the payment.

Purchasing Airtime with the Absa USSD Code

Running out of airtime is inconvenient. The *224# service lets you top up your phone directly from your bank account, avoiding the need to find a shop or use a scratch card. This feature allows you to purchase airtime for your own number or for another person's line, across any network in Kenya (Safaricom, Airtel, or Telkom).

The process is straightforward:

1. Access the service by dialing *224# and entering your PIN.
2. Choose the 'Airtime Top-up' option from the menu.
3. You will be asked if you are buying for 'My Number' or 'Another Number'. Select the appropriate option.
4. If you chose 'Another Number', you must enter the full phone number you want to top up.
5. Enter the amount of airtime you want to buy.
6. Confirm the transaction after verifying the phone number and amount are correct.

How to Request a Mini-Statement

A mini-statement is a useful feature for tracking recent activity on your account. It provides a summary of your last few transactions, typically between three to five, directly on your phone. This is helpful for confirming whether a payment has gone through or for quickly reviewing your recent spending without needing to visit a branch or use an ATM.

The statement is delivered to you via an SMS message for your records.

1. Dial *224# and enter your PIN to begin.
2. Navigate through the menu to find the 'Statements' or a similarly named option.
3. Select 'Mini Statement' from the sub-menu.
4. Choose the account for which you want to see the transaction history.
5. Confirm your request. The system will process it and send the transaction details to your phone's inbox shortly.

Common Issues and Important Information

While the USSD service is generally reliable, you might occasionally run into issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions.

• Forgotten PIN: For security, you cannot reset your mobile banking PIN using the *224# code. If you forget your PIN, you must visit your nearest Absa branch with your National ID to have it reset by a bank official.
• "Connection Problem" Error: This message typically indicates a poor mobile network signal, not a problem with the bank's system. Try moving to an area with better network coverage and attempt the transaction again.
• Transaction Fees: Be aware that while services like balance inquiries are often free, most transactions, such as money transfers and bill payments, will attract a small service fee. The fee is usually deducted from your account along with the transaction amount.