Everything you need to know about Pay by USSD

What is Pay by USSD, how does it work, and how can merchants integrate this payment method into their e-commerce store?

Pay by USSD: a seamless bank payment solution

Pay by USSD allows Nigerian customers to make payments for goods and services using their bank’s USSD short codes. This convenient payment method enables direct transactions from bank accounts without requiring internet access, making it an essential solution in a country with a growing digital economy and varying levels of internet penetration.

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What is Pay by USSD?

Pay by USSD is a payment solution that enables users to transfer money or pay for goods and services by dialing a specific USSD short code provided by their bank. It operates on a GSM network, allowing any mobile phone to access the service, even without internet connectivity. This payment method is widely used in Nigeria, where mobile banking is popular, offering a secure and reliable way to complete transactions.

 

How does Pay by USSD work?

Pay by USSD works by linking a customer’s bank account to their mobile number. To make a payment, the customer dials the USSD code for their bank and follows simple prompts to authorize the transaction. Once approved, the payment is processed instantly, and both the customer and merchant receive confirmation. The system eliminates the need for cash or cards, providing a quick and efficient alternative for payments.

 

Why do merchants and consumers use Pay by USSD?

Merchants and consumers in Nigeria benefit from Pay by USSD due to its accessibility and convenience. For consumers, it offers a straightforward way to make payments without needing internet or a smartphone. For merchants, it reduces reliance on cash transactions and provides a secure, fast, and affordable payment option. Additionally, the widespread adoption of USSD payment methods in Nigeria has helped increase financial inclusion by reaching underserved populations.

 

How can I start accepting Pay by USSD?

To start accepting Pay by USSD, merchants need to work with a payment gateway or bank that supports USSD transactions. This typically involves integrating the bank’s USSD payment solution into their business systems. Once set up, merchants can display the USSD codes for payments at checkout or on invoices, making it easy for customers to complete transactions. Many banks and payment providers in Nigeria offer guidance and support to help businesses get started with this efficient payment method.

Pay by USSD FAQ (4)

In which countries is Pay by USSD used?

Pay by USSD is widely used in Nigeria and several other African countries.

What are the benefits of using Pay by USSD as a payment method?

Pay by USSD offers several advantages: accessibility,convenience, affordability, speed and financial inclusion.

Is it easy to use the Pay by USSD service for online payments?

Yes, Pay by USSD is user-friendly and straightforward. Customers simply dial a specific USSD code provided by their bank, follow prompts to authorize the transaction, and confirm the payment.

Are there any security measures in place when using Pay by USSD for online transactions?

Yes, Pay by USSD incorporates strong security measures to protect users. Transactions are typically secured with personal identification numbers (PINs) or two-factor authentication (2FA), ensuring only authorized users can access their accounts.

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