Glo Recharge via Bank USSD / *805# Guide
Many Glo subscribers recharge without ever touching a scratch card. They use their bank instead. Bank USSD recharge lets you buy airtime from your own account through a short code on your phone, with no data connection. It is handy when you run out of credit late at night or when no shop is open.
This guide explains how the bank route works in general, what you need to start, how to protect yourself and what to do when it fails. Every bank has its own menu and codes, and you will see a code like *805# mentioned in connection with this topic. Treat any code you read as something to verify with your bank or Glo before you use it.
- Make sure the SIM registered with your bank is in the phone.
- Dial the USSD code that your bank gives for its menu.
- Choose the airtime option.
- Choose Glo as the network.
- Enter the amount and the number to recharge.
- Confirm with your PIN and wait for the SMS.
How bank USSD recharge works
Your bank has its own USSD menu, which you open by dialling a short code. Inside that menu there is an airtime or recharge option. You pick the network, type an amount and confirm with your bank PIN. The bank debits your account and sends the order to the network, which credits your line. Because the menu belongs to your bank, the steps and names differ from bank to bank.
What you need
- A bank account with USSD banking switched on.
- The SIM linked to that account.
- Enough money in the account.
- Your USSD or transaction PIN.
- Network signal strong enough for USSD sessions.
About the code *805#
You may see *805# in lists of Glo-related codes. We do not tell you to rely on it. Codes can change, and some belong to a bank, not to Glo. Before you dial any code, check that it comes from your bank’s official materials, the Glo menu or the Glo Café app. If a code does not match what your bank says, do not enter your PIN.
Comparing the main ways to recharge
| Method | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Bank USSD | No data needed, any time | Bank limits and charges |
| Glo Café app | Seeing offers and balance | Needs data or WiFi |
| Scratch card | Cash buyers, simple | Used or damaged cards |
| POS agent | Quick when away from home | Check the amount credited |
Staying safe
- Never type your bank PIN into a session that did not start from your own dial.
- Do not share your PIN or OTP with anyone.
- Ignore messages asking you to send a code to claim airtime.
- Check the amount and number on the confirmation screen before you press confirm.
- If you lose your SIM, ask your bank to block USSD at once.
Common problems
Dial again from the start. Do not repeat the payment before you check your balance.
Wait a short while, then check *310#. If nothing arrives, report with the bank reference.
Recharging a wrong number can be hard to reverse. Check before you confirm.
Your bank may cap airtime or daily USSD amounts. Ask the bank about limits.
Your bank may not offer airtime in USSD. Use its app or another method.
How to check that the recharge worked
Wait for the SMS from your bank and from Glo. Dial *310# to see your airtime. If a bonus applies, check *323# or the offers section too. Keep the bank reference until you are sure the credit has arrived.
Fees and limits
Banks may charge a small fee for USSD sessions or set a daily limit. These details vary and change, so check your bank’s current rules. If a fee surprises you, ask the bank for its fee table.
Questions people ask
Many bank menus allow it. You enter the other number when asked. Check it twice.
Often, yes, once you know your bank menu.
No. USSD works over the normal network connection.
A calm routine for every bank recharge
Before you dial, check that your bank account has enough money and that you are in a place with good signal. Open the menu from your own phone and type each answer slowly. When the confirmation screen appears, read the number and amount aloud to yourself. Only then enter your PIN. After the SMS, check your airtime and save the reference. This routine takes a minute and prevents the most expensive mistakes.
Final advice
Bank USSD recharge is a good backup when you cannot reach a shop. Learn your bank’s menu before you need it, keep your PIN private and always check the amount and number on the confirmation screen.
