How to Check If a Bank Account Is Active
A bank account may be active even when you are not using it regularly, but an account can become dormant or restricted after a prolonged period of inactivity. If you need to confirm whether your Nigerian bank account is active, you can usually check through your bank’s digital or customer service channels.
How to Check If Your Bank Account Is Active
The quickest method is to try an available banking service, such as your mobile banking app, internet banking, USSD service or ATM. If you can successfully access your account and perform permitted transactions, this can indicate that the account is active.
Check Through Your Bank App
Open your bank’s official mobile application and sign in. If the account information, balance and transaction features are available, your account is generally accessible. If you receive an account-status or login-related message, contact the bank for clarification.
Use Your Bank’s USSD Service
If your bank supports USSD banking, dial its current official USSD code from the phone number linked to your account. Depending on the service available, you may be able to check your balance or access another account function. A failed USSD request does not always mean that the account is inactive because network or service problems can also cause errors.
Try an ATM
You can insert your debit card at an ATM and attempt a permitted service such as checking your balance. If the card or account is declined, the reason could be an inactive account, card issue, incorrect PIN, network problem or another restriction.
Contact Your Bank
For a definite account-status check, contact your bank through its official customer service channel or visit a branch when required. Provide the information needed to verify your identity and ask whether the account is active, dormant, restricted or subject to another status.
Signs That May Require Further Checking
| Situation | What It May Mean |
|---|---|
| App access works normally | The account may still be active |
| USSD service fails | Could be an account, network or service issue |
| ATM transaction is declined | Could involve the card or account status |
| Bank confirms dormancy | The account may require reactivation |
| Bank reports a restriction | Additional verification or action may be required |
Does Not Using an Account Make It Inactive?
Prolonged inactivity can result in a bank account becoming dormant under applicable banking procedures. However, the exact conditions and process depend on the bank and account type.
If you are unsure about your account status, the bank’s official customer service channel is the most reliable way to confirm it before attempting important transactions.
Banks That Allow Account Opening With Your Phone
How to Close a Bank Account in Nigeria