Last Updated: November 2025
Disclaimer: nigeriaussdcodes.com is an independent information site. Polaris Bank is a separate entity. All USSD codes and procedures in this article are verified from Polaris Bank’s official documentation and other reliable sources.
Why the *833# Code Matters
For many Nigerians having an account with Polaris Bank but limited or no internet access, the USSD code *833# opens up a wide range of banking services directly from any mobile phone. This means you can transfer money, check your balance, buy airtime, pay bills, block your account — all without a smartphone or data connection
In 2025, with financial inclusion and mobile banking still growing, knowing how to use your bank’s USSD code fast and securely is a big advantage. This guide covers everything you need to know about Polaris Bank’s USSD — how to activate it, how to make transfers, self-service tips, error fixes, and security best practices.
Polaris Bank USSD Code at a Glance
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Main Short-Code:
*833#— this is branded as Polaris Bank’s “Smart Code”. -
Works across all mobile networks (MTN, GLO, Airtel, 9mobile) on any phone.
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Key functions include: balance check, transfers (within Polaris and to other banks), airtime purchases (self & others), bills payment, BVN verification, account blocking.
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Security feature: Polaris has codes like 8334# for card hotlisting, etc.
How to Register & Activate the Polaris Bank USSD Service
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Ensure your mobile number is linked to your Polaris Bank account (the number you used when opening your account).
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From that mobile number, dial
*833#. -
Follow the on-screen prompts — you may be asked to:
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Provide your 10-digit account number.
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Create or enter your 4-digit USSD PIN.
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Accept terms and conditions.
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Once completed, you’ll receive a confirmation SMS saying your USSD banking is activated and ready to use.
Note: If you try the code from a number not linked to your account, you may see “Registration required” or “Number not linked”.
How to Use Polaris Bank USSD Code — Key Functions & Examples
Here are common service commands and how you use them:
| Service | USSD Command Format | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Check balance | *833*6# |
Dial → enter PIN → get balance pop-up. |
| Transfer to Polaris account | *833*1*AccountNumber*Amount# |
e.g., *833*1*1234567890*5000# → enter PIN → confirm. |
| Transfer to other bank accounts | *833*Amount*AccountNumber# or through menus. |
e.g., *833*2500*0987654321# → select other bank → PIN. |
| Self airtime recharge | *833*Amount# |
e.g., *833*1000# → PIN → airtime credited. |
| Airtime for others / third-party | *833*Amount*PhoneNumber# |
e.g., *833*500*08012345678# → network → PIN. |
| Open account (for non-customers) | *833*1# (or through menu option 1) |
Dial and follow steps to open. |
| Pay bills | *833*2# |
Choose account → choose biller → enter amount → PIN. |
| Cardless Withdrawal / Hotlist card | *833*4# or specific option. |
Dial, follow prompts to block card or generate code. |
Self-Service Tips to Maximize Your USSD Experience
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Keep your phone’s airtime above ₦10 to avoid “Insufficient balance” when USSD session begins.
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Always enter your USSD PIN carefully — three wrong attempts may lock the service.
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Verify account numbers before transfers — wrong digit = wrong person.
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Use direct command format when you know the service (e.g., for transfers) to skip menus and reduce time.
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If you have more than one Polaris Bank account, you can link them under one USSD profile — check “Add account” option when you dial *833#.
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Check your SMS inbox for confirmation messages after every transaction to have a record.
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If your phone uses more than one SIM, ensure you dial from the number linked to your Polaris Bank account.
Common Errors & How to Fix Them
| Error Message | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| “Registration required” | Phone number not linked | Visit branch or call customer care to link the number |
| “Invalid PIN” | Wrong USSD PIN entered | Reset PIN via branch or customer care |
| “Insufficient Funds / Balance” | Airtime or account balance too low | Recharge phone airtime and/or ensure account has funds |
| “Transfer failed” | Network glitch or wrong bank code | Wait a few minutes and retry; check account and bank code |
| “Service temporarily unavailable” | Bank’s backend or USSD gateway issue | Try again later or visit branch |
| “Account blocked” after multiple wrong PINs | Security lock triggered | Visit branch or call customer care to unblock |
Security & Fraud Protection for Polaris Bank USSD
Polaris Bank has built several safety features into *833# Smart Code.
Personal Security Tips:
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Never share your USSD PIN or OTP with any caller — genuine banks will never ask.
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Avoid using shared phones for banking.
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After a sensitive transaction, log out and close the session quickly.
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Ensure you use the code only from the mobile number registered with your Polaris Bank account.
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Monitor your SMS alerts — any transaction you didn’t initiate should raise alarm.
Why Choose USSD Banking with Polaris Bank?
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Works on any mobile phone (basic or smartphone).
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No internet data needed; works even with weak networks.
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24/7 access — weekend or holiday, you can still transact.
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Wide range of services beyond transfers: open account, airtime, bills, cardless withdrawal.
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Ideal for users in rural or low-connectivity areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Polaris Bank USSD code?
Dial *833# from the mobile number linked to your Polaris Bank account.
Can I transfer money to other banks via *833#?
Yes — you can transfer to other banks using *833# or the menu option “Transfer to other banks.”
How do I check my account balance using USSD?
Dial *833*6# → select account → enter PIN to view your balance.
Is there a charge to use *833#?
Yes — each session may incur the standard USSD service fee (₦6.98) plus any bank-transaction charge. (Check your bank’s fees.)
How do I open a new Polaris Bank account using the code?
Dial *833*1# and follow the steps. Ensure your mobile number is not yet linked or you’ll need a branch.
What should I do if my Unity Bank USSD code (*7799#) is not working?
If you dial *7799# and get “Connection problem” or “Invalid MMI code,” check your phone’s network signal first. Ensure you’re dialing from the number linked to your Unity Bank account. If it still fails, try restarting your phone or contact Unity Bank customer care for reactivation.
Can I use *7799# on multiple phones?
No. Unity Bank’s USSD code is tied to your registered SIM card, not the phone itself. You can use any phone that has your registered SIM inserted — but the code will not work from another person’s number.
Is there a limit on how much I can transfer using *7799#?
Yes. For security and CBN regulation purposes, Unity Bank allows up to ₦200,000 per day via USSD (for most accounts). You can raise this limit by linking your BVN or upgrading your account at any Unity Bank branch.
How can I reset or change my USSD PIN?
If you forget your PIN, dial *7799# and select “Reset PIN” under the menu options. You may be asked to provide basic verification information. If you can’t access the menu, visit a Unity Bank branch for assistance.
Does using *7799# require data or internet connection?
No. The *7799# service is fully offline — it works on any phone, even without mobile data. You only need a small amount of airtime (₦6.98) for the USSD session fee as mandated by NCC.
Conclusion
The *833# USSD service from Polaris Bank is a powerful tool for managing your money anytime, anywhere — without needing WiFi or mobile data. Whether you’re sending money, checking your balance, buying airtime, or paying bills — it’s all accessible via one short code.
Make sure you register properly, keep your PIN safe, stay aware of the commands, and use the code only from your registered number. With these practices, you’ll harness the full convenience of Polaris Bank’s USSD service while keeping your finances secure.