First Bank USSD Code (*894#) Guide 2025: Transfers, Balance, Airtime & More

Ever been stuck in traffic in Lagos and suddenly remembered you forgot to send money to a friend? Or maybe you ran out of airtime in the middle of an important call? With First Bank’s USSD code (*894#), those little emergencies don’t have to turn into crises.

This guide is your one-stop manual for everything you need to know about the First Bank USSD code. Whether you’re trying to check your account balance, transfer money without an ATM card, or even apply for a quick loan, you’ll find clear, step-by-step instructions right here.

first bank ussd code

What is the First Bank USSD Code?

The First Bank USSD code is *894#. It’s a quick, simple, and secure way to carry out banking transactions directly from your mobile phone without an internet connection. This makes it especially useful in areas with poor data coverage or for people who don’t use smartphones.

With just a few taps, you can send money, check balances, buy airtime, pay bills, or request loans. It works 24/7, across all major GSM networks in Nigeria, and on both smartphones and basic feature phones.

Why Use First Bank’s *894# USSD Code?

Here’s why millions of Nigerians rely on the *894# First Bank code every single day:

  • No internet needed: Works perfectly offline, no data charges.
  • Secure and fast: Transactions are protected with your personal 4-digit PIN.
  • Accessible everywhere: Works across Nigeria, even in rural areas.
  • Multiple services in one code: From balance checks to loans and bill payments.
  • Supports financial inclusion: Gives the unbanked and underbanked easy access to banking.

How to Activate the First Bank USSD Code

Before you can use *894#, you need to activate the service. The process is quick:

  1. Dial *894*0# from the mobile number linked to your First Bank account.
  2. Enter your First Bank account number when prompted.
  3. Set a secure 4-digit transaction PIN. Make sure it’s something memorable but not easy for others to guess.
  4. Once confirmed, you’re ready to use *894# Quick Banking immediately.

Complete List of First Bank USSD Codes

Instead of memorizing multiple numbers, all you need is *894#. From there, you can access the menu or use shortcuts. Below is a handy table of common codes:

ServiceUSSD Code
Check Account Balance*894*00#
Transfer Money (First Bank & Others)*894*Amount*AccountNumber#
Buy Airtime (Self)*894*Amount#
Buy Airtime (Others)*894*Amount*PhoneNumber#
Get Started / Register*894*0#
Block Account (Emergency)*894*911#
Mini Statement*894*AccountNumber#
Loans (FirstAdvance)*894*11#
Receive Payments Instantly*894*99#

How to Check Account Balance Using First Bank USSD Code

If you ever wonder “What’s my balance right now?”, here’s the fastest way to find out:

  1. Dial *894*00# from your registered phone number.
  2. Enter your transaction PIN.
  3. Your current account balance will appear on your screen.

This works instantly and saves you from ATM queues or opening a banking app.

How to Transfer Money with First Bank USSD Code

Need to send cash to a family member or pay for a service? With the First Bank USSD transfer code, it’s straightforward:

  1. Dial *894*Amount*AccountNumber#.
  2. Select the destination bank from the options displayed.
  3. Enter your 4-digit PIN to authorize.
  4. You’ll get a confirmation message immediately after the transfer is successful.

Example: To send ₦5,000 to account number 1234567890, you’ll dial *894*5000*1234567890#.

How to Buy Airtime with First Bank USSD Code

Running out of airtime during an urgent call can be stressful. Thankfully, you can top up instantly:

  • For your own line: Dial *894*Amount#.
  • For someone else: Dial *894*Amount*Recipient’sNumber#.

It’s one of the fastest ways to recharge without scratching recharge cards or looking for POS agents.

How to Apply for a Loan Using First Bank USSD Code

Did you know you can request a loan straight from your phone without visiting a branch? First Bank offers FirstAdvance, a short-term digital loan, accessible with *894*11#. Here’s how:

  1. Dial *894*11# on your registered number.
  2. Follow the prompts to see your eligible loan amount.
  3. Confirm by entering your PIN.
  4. Funds are disbursed instantly into your account if you qualify.

This makes First Bank USSD loans one of the most convenient credit options in Nigeria today.

How to Block Your First Bank Account with USSD

Lost your phone or suspect fraudulent activity? Don’t panic. With the First Bank account blocking USSD code, you can secure your funds immediately. Simply dial *894*911# from any phone. This feature allows you to block or unblock your account instantly, giving you peace of mind in emergencies.

How to Increase Transfer Limit on First Bank USSD Code

By default, First Bank sets a daily transfer limit for security reasons. However, if you need higher limits for business or personal reasons, you can increase it:

  1. Visit the nearest First Bank branch and request a limit upgrade.
  2. You may be asked for valid identification and proof of need (e.g., business transactions).
  3. Once approved, your daily USSD transfer limit will be increased.

Currently, most accounts allow transfers up to ₦100,000 per day via USSD, but limits can be adjusted for eligible customers.

How to Unblock Your First Bank USSD Code

If your USSD service is blocked due to incorrect PIN attempts or security reasons, you can restore access:

  1. Dial *894*0# to re-register.
  2. Follow the prompts to reset your USSD PIN.
  3. If issues persist, visit a First Bank branch for assistance.

Remember, never share your PIN with anyone, not even First Bank staff.

First Bank USSD Code for Mini Statement

Need to quickly review your last few transactions? Just dial *894*AccountNumber# and select the Mini Statement option. This gives you a snapshot of your recent activity without needing a printed statement.

First Bank USSD Code for Receiving Payments

Want to receive money faster? With *894*99#, you can generate a unique code to accept payments instantly. This is particularly useful for small business owners who want quick and secure transactions without a POS terminal.

Tips for Safe USSD Banking

While *894# banking is secure, you should still take precautions:

  • Always keep your USSD PIN secret.
  • Immediately dial *894*911# if your phone is lost or stolen.
  • Beware of fraudsters asking for codes or PINs via calls or SMS — First Bank will never do this.
  • Use strong, unique PINs instead of obvious choices like your date of birth.

Troubleshooting Common First Bank USSD Issues

Sometimes you may face challenges using the service. Here’s how to fix them:

  • USSD not working: Ensure you’re dialing from your registered phone number.
  • Service unavailable: Try again after a few minutes — it may be a temporary network issue.
  • PIN blocked: Reset via *894*0# or visit a branch.
  • Transaction failed: Double-check account numbers and confirm you have enough balance.

Frequently Asked Questions About First Bank USSD Code

What is the USSD code for First Bank in Nigeria?

The official First Bank USSD code is *894#. From this menu, you can check balances, transfer money, buy airtime, apply for loans, and more.

How can I check my First Bank account balance without internet?

Simply dial *894*00# from your registered phone number and enter your PIN. Your balance will be displayed instantly.

Can I transfer money without an ATM card?

Yes. With *894*Amount*AccountNumber#, you can transfer funds directly from your account without needing an ATM card or app.

What is the USSD code to buy airtime on First Bank?

Dial *894*Amount# for self-recharge or *894*Amount*PhoneNumber# to recharge another number.

How do I block my First Bank account if my phone is stolen?

Dial *894*911# immediately to block your account and prevent unauthorized transactions.

Can I get a loan using First Bank USSD code?

Yes. Dial *894*11# to access the FirstAdvance loan service, check eligibility, and receive funds instantly.

Final Thoughts: Why First Bank USSD Banking is a Game-Changer

The First Bank USSD code *894# has transformed banking for millions of Nigerians. From checking balances without internet to buying airtime instantly and even securing emergency loans, it’s more than just a code — it’s financial empowerment in your pocket.

Whether you’re a student on campus, a trader in the market, or a professional in the city, *894# ensures your money is always within reach. With security, convenience, and accessibility at its core, it’s no wonder First Bank’s USSD service continues to grow year after year.

Pro tip: Save the key codes like *894*00# (balance), *894*Amount*AccountNumber# (transfer), and *894*911# (block account) on your phone. That way, you’ll never be caught unprepared.

Now that you know how to use First Bank USSD codes in 2025, you can bank smarter, safer, and faster — anytime, anywhere.

 

Also read FCMB Transfer Code: The Complete Guide to Using *329# in 2025

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