Sterling Bank USSD Code: Transfer, Balance & Airtime (*822#)
Sterling Bank's USSD code is *822#. Dial it to transfer money, check your balance, buy airtime, and pay bills without internet. To transfer: dial *822# and select Transfer in the menu.
Sterling Bank USSD codes — reference
| Operation | Method (always correct) | Direct shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Base code (USSD) | Dial *822# | *822# |
| Transfer | Dial *822#, then select Transfer from the menu | — menu only |
| Balance | Dial *822#, then select Balance from the menu | — menu only |
| Airtime | Dial *822#, then select Airtime purchase from the menu | — menu only |
Sterling Bank publishes the base code *822# but no reliable direct shortcut for sub-operations — the always-correct method is to dial *822# and navigate the menu. This is deliberate: Sterling Bank's direct shortcuts vary by customer tier. Sterling Bank's sub-codes are flagged "medium confidence": confirm via the menu rather than memorising a shortcut.
How do I transfer money with the Sterling Bank USSD code?
- Dial *822# from the phone number linked to your Sterling Bank account.
- Select "Transfer" from the USSD menu.
- Enter the recipient's 10-digit NUBAN account number.
- Enter the destination bank code (or pick from the displayed list).
- Enter the amount to transfer.
- Verify the displayed recipient name, then enter your Sterling Bank USSD PIN to confirm.
Why is the Sterling Bank USSD code not working?
- Wrong phone number : bank USSD only works from the phone number linked to your Sterling Bank account. If you've changed your number, update your bank profile first.
- USSD service not activated : new accounts — activate Sterling Bank USSD via a branch or the mobile app before first use.
- Insufficient telco airtime : the USSD session fee is ~₦6.98, charged by your telco. Without airtime, the code fails silently.
- Weak network : USSD needs a stable cellular signal; retry with better coverage.
- Code changed : dial the base code *822# and use the menu — the menu always reflects current operations, unlike an old direct shortcut. Contact Sterling Bank to confirm.
Fees and security
USSD fees : ~N6.98 USSD session fee + bank fees. The USSD session fee is charged by your telco operator (NCC regulation), not by the bank. Compare against MoMo fees in our Nigeria calculator.
Security : NEVER share your Sterling Bank USSD PIN with anyone — including someone claiming to be a bank agent. Sterling Bank will never ask for your PIN via call, SMS, email or WhatsApp. Lock your SIM card (SIM PIN) so a phone thief cannot access USSD. If your phone is lost or stolen, call Sterling Bank immediately to block USSD.
Note : All sub-operations via menu.