*99# is a mobile banking service launched by NPCI to help users without internet access to banking through simple mobile phones. By dialing *99#, users can check their bank balance, send money, set or change UPI PIN, and more—all without needing a smartphone or data.
What is *99#?
The *99# mobile banking service is designed to help people who do not have internet access. It uses USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) technology, which works on basic phones too. This service helps people across India do banking just by dialling *99# from their mobile.
Launched by NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India), *99# was introduced in 2012 and got a major boost in 2014 under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. In 2016, it became part of the UPI (Unified Payments Interface) system and is now called USSD 2.0.
Who Can Use *99#?
- Anyone with a basic or smartphone using a GSM network.
- Customers of banks that support *99# service (83+ banks as of now).
- People with or without internet connection.
Features of *99# Mobile Banking
- Works on all GSM phones, even without the internet.
- Easy-to-use menu in 13 Indian languages including Hindi and English.
- Works 24×7, even on holidays.
- No need to install any app.
- Accessible by simply dialling *99# from your mobile.
Services You Can Use on *99#
Financial Services
| Service Type | What You Can Do |
|---|---|
| Send Money | Using mobile number, UPI ID, or account+IFSC |
| Request Money | Using UPI ID or mobile number |
Non-Financial Services
| Service Type | What You Can Check or Set |
|---|---|
| Balance Enquiry | Know your current bank balance |
| Set/Change UPI PIN | Secure your UPI transactions |
| Last 5 Transactions | View your recent activity |
How to Use *99# Step-by-Step
- *Dial 99# on your GSM phone.
- A list of menu options will appear.
- Choose the option like “Send Money”, “Balance Enquiry”, etc.
- Follow the instructions shown on your screen.
- Enter your UPI PIN to complete the action.
Why *99# Is it Important?
- Brings banking to rural and remote areas.
- Helps people without smartphones or internet.
- Encourages financial inclusion in India.
- Acts as an alternate method to use UPI and BHIM services.
FAQs
What is *99#?
*99# is a USSD-based mobile banking service by NPCI that lets users access banking without internet or smartphone.
Who can use *99# service?
Any GSM mobile user with a bank account linked to UPI can use *99#, even if they don’t have internet access.
Is *99# available in regional languages?
Yes, *99# is available in 13 languages including Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, and more.
Can I send money using *99#?
Yes, you can send money using a mobile number, UPI ID, or bank account + IFSC.
Do I need a smartphone or internet for *99#?
No. *99# works even on basic feature phones without internet.
How do I check my bank balance using *99#?
Just dial *99#, choose “Check Balance”, enter your UPI PIN, and your balance will be shown.
Is *99# service available 24/7?
Yes, it is available 24x7, even on holidays.
