Sending money no longer requires visiting a banking hall or logging into a mobile banking app. With First Bank’s USSD banking service, you can transfer money, buy airtime, pay bills, and perform many other banking transactions directly from your mobile phone. Whether you’re using a smartphone or a basic feature phone, the service works without an internet connection, making it one of the fastest ways to manage your account.
If you’ve been searching for the First Bank transfer code, this article covers everything you need to know. I’ll explain how to register for First Bank USSD banking, transfer money to First Bank and other Nigerian banks, understand transaction limits and charges, reset your USSD PIN, troubleshoot common problems, and use the service securely.
Last Updated: July 2026 — This article has been updated with the latest First Bank USSD banking information.
Quick Answer: What Is the First Bank Transfer Code?
The official First Bank transfer code is:
*894#
To transfer money:
- Dial
*894#using the phone number linked to your First Bank account. - Select Transfer Money.
- Choose whether you’re sending money to a First Bank account or another Nigerian bank.
- Enter the recipient’s account number.
- Select the recipient’s bank (if required).
- Enter the transfer amount.
- Confirm the recipient’s details.
- Enter your USSD PIN to authorize the transaction.
Once the transaction is successful, both you and the recipient will receive an SMS confirmation.
What Is First Bank USSD Banking?
First Bank USSD Banking is a mobile banking service that allows customers to carry out banking transactions simply by dialing *894# on the mobile number linked to their account.
Unlike internet banking or the FirstMobile app, USSD banking works without mobile data or Wi-Fi.
With First Bank USSD Banking, you can:
- Transfer money.
- Buy airtime for yourself.
- Buy airtime for others.
- Check your account balance.
- Pay utility bills.
- Purchase mobile data.
- Open an account (where available).
- Block your ATM card.
- Manage your USSD profile.
Because the service operates through the GSM network, it’s available on Android phones, iPhones, and feature phones.
Requirements Before Using the First Bank Transfer Code
Before you can transfer money using *894#, make sure you meet these requirements:
- You have an active First Bank account.
- Your mobile number is linked to the account.
- You have registered for First Bank USSD Banking.
- You have created your USSD PIN.
- Your phone has network coverage.
- You have sufficient funds in your account.
If you haven’t registered yet, you won’t be able to complete a transfer.
How to Register for First Bank USSD Banking
Registration only takes a few minutes.
Step 1
Using the phone number linked to your First Bank account, dial:
*894#
Step 2
Select the option to register for USSD Banking.
Step 3
Verify your identity by following the prompts.
Depending on your account, you may be asked to:
- Enter your debit card details.
- Confirm your account number.
- Verify your date of birth.
- Complete another security verification.
Step 4
Create your preferred 5-digit USSD PIN.
Choose a PIN that’s easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess.
Step 5
Confirm your new PIN.
Once registration is complete, your First Bank USSD profile will be activated, allowing you to transfer money and access other banking services.
How to Transfer Money Using the First Bank Transfer Code
Once you’ve registered, sending money is straightforward.
Step 1
Dial:
*894#
Step 2
Select Transfer Money.
Step 3
Choose the destination:
- First Bank account.
- Another Nigerian bank.
Step 4
Enter the recipient’s account number.
Step 5
If you’re transferring to another bank, select the recipient’s bank from the list.
Step 6
Enter the amount you wish to transfer.
Step 7
Review the recipient’s name displayed on your screen.
Always verify the details carefully before proceeding.
Step 8
Enter your USSD PIN to authorize the transaction.
If the transfer is successful, you’ll receive an SMS confirmation immediately.
Can I Transfer Money to Other Banks?
Yes.
First Bank’s USSD service supports transfers to most commercial banks in Nigeria.
Depending on the current network configuration, you can transfer funds to banks such as:
- Access Bank
- GTBank
- Zenith Bank
- UBA
- Union Bank
- Fidelity Bank
- Sterling Bank
- Wema Bank
- Polaris Bank
- Stanbic IBTC Bank
- Keystone Bank
- FCMB
- Ecobank
- Providus Bank
- Jaiz Bank
- Lotus Bank
- Parallex Bank
- Optimus Bank
As additional banks join the national payment network, they may also become available through the USSD menu.
How Long Does a First Bank Transfer Take?
Most transfers are processed within a few seconds.
However, the exact processing time depends on:
- Network availability.
- The recipient’s bank.
- Interbank settlement systems.
- Temporary maintenance on banking platforms.
If a transaction is delayed, wait a few minutes before trying again or contacting First Bank Customer Care.
First Bank Transfer Limit
For security reasons, First Bank places limits on the amount customers can transfer through its USSD banking service.
The exact transfer limit available to you depends on factors such as:
- Your account type.
- Whether your USSD profile has been fully activated.
- The security level of your account.
- First Bank’s current transaction policy.
If you need to transfer an amount above your available USSD limit, consider using the FirstMobile App or Internet Banking, where higher transaction limits may be available after the necessary security verification.
Does First Bank Charge for USSD Transfers?
Yes.
Like other Nigerian banks, First Bank applies transaction charges to USSD transfers.
The total amount deducted from your account may include:
- The transfer amount.
- The applicable transfer fee.
- Electronic Money Transfer Levy (where required by regulation).
- The USSD session fee charged by your mobile network, where applicable.
Before you confirm a transaction, the system normally displays the amount to be debited so you know exactly what you’re paying.
How to Change or Reset Your First Bank USSD PIN
Your USSD PIN protects your account against unauthorized transactions. If you think someone knows your PIN or you’ve forgotten it, you should change or reset it immediately.
To Change Your PIN
- Dial
*894#. - Select Settings or Manage PIN.
- Choose Change PIN.
- Enter your current PIN.
- Create a new 5-digit PIN.
- Confirm the new PIN.
Your new PIN will become active once the process is completed successfully.
If You Forgot Your PIN
If you can’t remember your PIN, you can reset it by following the recovery option available on the USSD menu.
Depending on your account, First Bank may ask you to verify your identity using information such as your debit card details or other registered account information before allowing you to create a new PIN.
What Should I Do If My Transfer Fails?
Most failed transfers are temporary and can be resolved without visiting a branch.
Here are some common causes and solutions.
Insufficient Account Balance
Ensure your account contains enough money to cover:
- The transfer amount.
- Bank charges.
- Any applicable statutory levy.
Poor Network Connection
USSD banking relies on your mobile network.
If the signal is weak, move to an area with better network coverage and try again.
Incorrect Recipient Details
Before confirming a transfer, always verify:
- The account number.
- The recipient’s name.
- The selected bank.
Entering the wrong details could send money to the wrong account.
Incorrect USSD PIN
Entering the wrong PIN will prevent the transaction from being completed.
If you’ve forgotten your PIN, reset it before trying again.
Temporary Banking System Maintenance
Occasionally, First Bank or the national payment network performs maintenance.
If this happens, wait a few minutes before repeating the transaction.
Safety Tips When Using the First Bank Transfer Code
USSD banking is secure, but you should still follow good security practices.
Never Share Your USSD PIN
Your PIN is private.
Don’t disclose it to anyone, including people claiming to represent the bank.
Verify Recipient Details
Always confirm the recipient’s name before authorizing a transfer.
This simple step can help prevent costly mistakes.
Keep Your Phone Secure
Protect your phone with:
- A screen lock.
- Fingerprint authentication.
- Facial recognition.
- A strong password or PIN.
Report a Lost Phone Immediately
If the phone linked to your First Bank account is lost or stolen, contact First Bank immediately to protect your account and disable unauthorized access. You can as well check out: How to Block First Bank ATM Card: Step-by-Step Guide for 2026
Benefits of Using the First Bank Transfer Code
Many customers prefer USSD banking because of its convenience.
Some of the key advantages include:
- No internet connection required.
- Works on smartphones and feature phones.
- Available 24 hours a day.
- Quick money transfers.
- Simple registration process.
- Easy access from almost anywhere with network coverage.
- Multiple banking services through a single USSD code.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the First Bank transfer code?
The official First Bank transfer code is:
*894#
Can I transfer money to another bank using *894#?
Yes.
You can transfer money from your First Bank account to most commercial banks in Nigeria through the USSD service.
Do I need internet to use the First Bank transfer code?
No.
USSD banking works over your mobile network and doesn’t require Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Can I use the code on any phone?
Yes.
The service works on Android phones, iPhones, feature phones, and most GSM devices.
What if I forgot my USSD PIN?
You can reset your PIN through the USSD menu after completing the required identity verification.
Is First Bank USSD banking available 24/7?
Yes.
The service is generally available at any time, although occasional maintenance may temporarily affect transactions.
Why is my transfer pending?
Pending transfers are usually caused by temporary network delays or banking system processing.
Wait for the transaction notification before attempting another transfer.
Can I reverse a completed transfer?
If you’ve transferred money to the wrong account, contact First Bank Customer Care immediately.
While successful transfers cannot always be reversed, reporting the issue promptly gives the bank the best opportunity to assist.
Is there a daily transfer limit?
Yes.
Your available limit depends on your account profile and First Bank’s current security policies.
Is the First Bank transfer code safe?
Yes.
When used correctly and with a secure PIN, First Bank’s USSD banking platform provides a convenient and secure way to transfer money.
The First Bank transfer code makes sending money simple, fast, and accessible from almost any mobile phone. Whether you’re transferring funds to another First Bank customer or sending money to a different Nigerian bank, *894# allows you to complete transactions without an internet connection. Remember to keep your USSD PIN confidential, verify recipient details before confirming any transfer, and monitor your account regularly to ensure every transaction is authorized.
