FNB eWallet arrives on Whatsapp

FNB has expanded its popular eWallet feature onto Whatsapp to make access easier for South Africans without a bank account.

The bank’s customers sent over R43 billion via eWallet in the past year alone and processed 69 million transactions on the platform.

Whatsapp was chosen due to being a low-data channel that’s popular amongst South Africans, and aims to make life easier for the ‘unbanked, underserved, and underbanked’ users, according to the bank.

“Previously, an eWallet could only be created when an FNB account holder sent money. Now, new customers can create their own eWallet on WhatsApp,” says FNB.

Customers can onboard themselves within minutes to get access to a host of financial services.

Once you send “hi” to 087 eWallet or 087 392 5538, you need to verify yourself with an OTP, add your name, surname, confirm you’re an adult, and accept the terms and conditions. Lastly, you can create a wallet PIN to access it securely.

You can then see the most basic features once logged in, such as your eWallet balance, the option to get a loan, send money or buy plus an additional “menu” button. Thereafter you can complete your transaction in a secure chat window as if you are chatting to a contact.

The service offers instant payments, prepaid purchases, cash withdrawals from a range of retailers, and cash advances from R50-R500.

FNB’s retail partners to get cash without the need to visit an FNB ATM includes Ackermans, Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, PEP and select Spar stores.

Customers can also use their eWallet to pay for fuel or items from attached convenience stores at garages like Shell, Sasol, Engen and Total Energies.

Lytania Johnson, CEO of FNB Personal Segment says for over a decade, eWallet has enabled millions of South Africans to send and receive money safely and conveniently.

“This evolution strengthens that foundation by introducing a more seamless, secure, and intuitive digital wallet for customers who need simple and affordable solutions. Our focus remains on expanding access to safe, modern ways of transacting and lowering barriers to entry into the formal financial system,” says Johnson.

Hema Morar, FNB eWallet Executive says the evolution is designed to be fast, secure, scalable and interoperable.

“At its core, eWallet is about dignity, access, and possibility. Every enhancement we’ve made is designed to make life a little easier for someone. When people can move their money simply and securely, it opens doors, reduces stress, and helps support the goals and responsibilities they carry every day.”

Key features of FNB eWallet

• Create your own eWallet on WhatsApp for new customers (Anyone can have an eWallet. No need to wait for an FNB customer or anyone to send you an eWallet, create own wallet on WhatsApp)​
• Cash Advance for new customers (borrow from R50 – R500)​
• eWallet using WhatsApp as a banking channel ​
• Send an eWallet from your eWallet on WhatsApp​
• Make, instant, real-time payments with PayShap ​
• Buy Electricity, Airtime & Entertainment Vouchers​
• Get your cash from Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, Pick n Pay, PEP, Ackermans, Selected Spar for new customers
• Managing bill payments and pay using eWallet @ Fuel Stations ​and selected Spar stores
• Pay and Get Paid from eWallet into any bank account​ (for new customers)
• Withdraw from a Spaza shop /Agency Plus​
• Customers can transact on USSD and the FNB App as well

eWallet Fees and Info

• eWallet number: 087 392 5538
• Monthly account fee: R0
• Sending and eWallet: R10
• Recipient pays no withdrawal fees
• PayShap payment to FNB Wallet or account: R1
• Payshap payment to non-FNB bank: R3.50
• EFT to FNB customer: R1
• EFT to a non-FNB customer: R2

Visit FNB eWallet for more.