You can do a lot with your Ecobank account aside from just sending and withdrawing cash. The reason is simple, Ecobank has a feature that allows users to recharge airtime with ease. Also, they can do other types of recharges with it as well.
Without restriction to the network type available in your location, you just need to dial a code then proceed to select the airtime you need then boom, your recharge will be successful. Airtime recharge can be done via different platforms like USSD, mobile applications, and more. But to use this service efficiently, here are some important highlights you should know about this service.
Ecobank account owner
To use Ecobank to recharge, you first need to have an Ecobank account. Then you also need a debit card that contains some details that will be essential in the entire process. Ecobank accounts be opened at the bank premises or through online platforms. Non-Ecobank account owners have to open an account with the bank first before they can recharge their lines from the account, The processes of creating the account are not tedious. There is also no restriction on the period of time that one has to own the account before they can use it for transactions. Even if the Ecobank account is one day old, it can be used for airtime recharge and other transactions so long as it is activated by some deposits and a debit card has been issued.
Debit card
Possession of a debit card is not just a ticket for accessing your bank account. It is also vital for both USSD and Internet banking because of the essential details that it contains. If bank account owners do not have a debit card, it will be difficult for them to access many financial services including airtime recharge. Both sides of the debit card contain information such as the Debit card number which is required to create a USSD pin or carry out some online transaction. In some cases, after inputting the internet ID pin, users may still be required to input their Card pins to authorize a transaction. This is very important because without correct card details the user risks debit card blocking by the bank.
Funding
Airtime recharge cannot be done from an empty bank account. Your account first has to be funded to be able to recharge your line with the airtime network of your choice. Like most bank accounts, it requires a minimum deposit before it can be used for other tractions. Also, the bank charges should also be considered when funding an Ecobank account. Airtime purchase often begins from N50 and above but some personalized options may be available through other bank services. Transaction for airtime recharge will be unsuccessful if there is insufficient balance in the account.
Account funding can be made at the bank during the account opening process. However, payment to the newly created account can be done through transfer from any account to the newly created Ecobank account.
Recharge via USSD Code
Most bank account owners are familiar with the USSD codes of their bank because of their importance in carrying out different exceptions. Ecobank has a standard code for its USSD services which serves other purposes too aside from just recharging your line. The USSD can be used for bill payments, transfers, and more.
To recharge your airtime using Ecobank USSD, follow these steps.
1. Dial *346# using a phone number linked to your account.
2. Next, follow the on-screen prompts to recharge. The prompts
The prompts often involve options that you can select from by typing the option number in the enter space provided. Also, the option to select is “airtime recharge” then proceed to enter the amount and input your pin to recharge.
Airtime recharge also provides for both personal and recharge and recharge of third-party phone numbers. It is all in the option for the user to select which is more appropriate. Airtime purchase can be easily done by dialing *326* airtime amount# if you are recharging your own number. However, to recharge for friends, there is a slight difference. Simply dial *326*500*08034555590# USSD is an easy way to go about recharging when compared to other forms of recharging.
Use your debit card
The Ecobank debit card allows you to withdraw funds from an Automated Teller Machine or POS. The debit card is actually the ticket to accessing online banking transactions and the USSD services. But it can be used to recharge from your Ecobank account. Simply slot in your debit card, enter your unique pin then select airtime recharge, you will choose whether to recharge for yourself or for others then the amount of airtime will be selected. Users will be notified of the status of their transactions.
Recharge by using the mobile app.
In case you are not a fan of dialing codes and following o screen prompts which takes some time and requires a fast response, apps may be the best bet for you. The Ecobank mobile app makes it possible for you to purchase airtime and even transfer airtime to your family and friends. Follow these simple steps to go about recharging from your Ecobank mobile app.
The first thing you need to do as a bank customer with Ecobank is to download and install the app to your phone (smartphone). This should be followed by login in with your mobile banking ID and password. Unlike the USSD way of recharging, your pin is not needed here.
In the app, there are menus outlining each of the services including recharge so just select as appropriate and input the amount you need and it will be credited. Also, the app allows users to choose between recharging their own lines or recharging for friends. and third parties.
In all cases, users will get a prompt saying that their transaction has been completed and they will receive a notification of the recharge purchase almost immediately. Although delays can occur due to network challenges, the status of the transaction will be shared so that the user can take the next action.
