That ₦50 monthly charge for SMS alerts adds up to ₦600 every year. Multiply that across multiple accounts, and you could be paying thousands of naira just for text messages
I used to pay ₦50 every month for SMS alerts until I discovered I could stop these charges completely.
If you’re tired of seeing deductions for text messages you didn’t ask for, or if you simply want to save that money, this guide is for you.
Let me show you exactly how to stop bank SMS alert charges and what alternatives you can use to stay updated about your account.
Stopping bank SMS alert charges is simple and can save you money every month.
Why Banks Charge For Sms Alerts
Before we talk about stopping the charges, it helps to understand why banks charge for SMS alerts in the first place.
Banks pay telecommunications companies to send you text messages every time you make a transaction. That cost is passed on to you, the customer.
In Nigeria, the Central Bank regulates this charge, and banks can charge up to ₦4 per SMS alert. By the end of the month, depending on how many transactions you make, this can add up to around ₦50.
When I first learned this, I realized I was paying for something I could live without, especially since I check my bank app regularly.
How To Stop Sms Alert Charges
Stopping SMS alert charges is straightforward, but the process varies slightly depending on your bank.
Here are the most common methods:
Method 1: Call Your Bank’s Customer Service
This is the easiest way to stop SMS alerts.
- Find your bank’s customer service number. It’s usually on the back of your debit card or on your bank’s website.
- Call the number and tell the representative you want to deactivate SMS alerts on your account.
- They’ll ask for some verification details like your account number, name, and possibly your BVN.
- Once verified, they’ll deactivate the service immediately.
I used this method with my bank, and the whole process took less than five minutes.
Method 2: Visit Your Bank Branch
If you prefer face-to-face communication, you can visit any branch of your bank.
- Go to the customer service desk and tell them you want to stop SMS alerts.
- They may ask you to fill out a form or simply verify your identity.
- Once processed, your SMS alerts will be deactivated.
This method is great if you have other banking issues to resolve and want to handle everything at once.
Method 3: Use Your Bank’s Mobile App
Some Nigerian banks allow you to manage SMS alerts directly through their mobile apps.
- Log in to your bank’s mobile app.
- Go to Settings or Profile.
- Look for options like ‘Manage Alerts’ or ‘SMS Notifications.’
- Toggle off SMS alerts and save your changes.
Not all banks offer this feature in their apps, so if you don’t see it, use one of the other methods.
Method 4: Send An Email To Your Bank
If you’re not in a hurry, you can send an email to your bank’s customer service.
Include your account number, full name, and a clear request to deactivate SMS alerts.
Most banks respond within 24 to 48 hours.
I’ve used this method before when I couldn’t get through on the phone. It worked, but it did take a couple of days.
Things To Consider Before Stopping SMS Alerts
While stopping SMS alerts can save you money, there are some things you should think about first.
- Security: SMS alerts help you detect unauthorized transactions immediately. Without them, you might not notice fraud until it’s too late.
- Tracking: SMS alerts make it easy to track your spending without logging into your app every time.
- Convenience: Getting instant notifications is convenient, especially if you’re making multiple transactions throughout the day.
Personally, I kept my alerts active for a while because I valued the security. But once I started checking my app regularly, I felt comfortable turning them off.
Alternatives to SMS Alerts
If you stop SMS alerts, you’ll need another way to monitor your account.
Here are some alternatives:
- Mobile app push notifications: Many banks send free push notifications through their apps. Enable these in your app settings.
- Email alerts: Some banks offer free email notifications for transactions. Check if your bank has this option.
- Regular app checks: Make it a habit to check your bank app daily. I do this every morning and evening.
- Transaction history: Review your transaction history weekly to spot any unusual activity.
These alternatives keep you informed without costing you anything.
Can You Reactivate SMS Alerts Later?
Yes, if you change your mind, you can reactivate SMS alerts at any time.
Just use the same methods you used to deactivate them: call customer service, visit a branch, or manage it through your app.
I turned my alerts back on once when I was traveling and wanted extra security. It’s a flexible service.
How Much Can You Save By Stopping Sms Alerts?
If your bank charges ₦50 per month for SMS alerts, that’s ₦600 per year.
It might not sound like much, but every naira counts, especially if you’re trying to save money or reduce unnecessary expenses.
If you have multiple bank accounts, the savings multiply. I have two accounts, so stopping alerts on both saved me ₦1,200 annually.
Final Thoughts
Stopping bank SMS alert charges is simple and can save you money every month.
Whether you call your bank, visit a branch, or manage it through your app, the process is quick and hassle-free.
Just make sure you have an alternative way to monitor your account, like push notifications or regular app checks.
With a little effort, you can keep your account secure while saving a bit of money on the side.