How to Reverse eWallet Payment on FNB App

How to Reverse eWallet Payment on FNB App

Complete guide for South African FNB customers

Last updated: November 2025

⚡ Quick Facts

  • You have only 24 hours to reverse an unclaimed eWallet
  • Reversal fee: R50 (if processed through call centre)
  • Cannot reverse if recipient has already withdrawn the money
  • Multiple methods available: App, USSD code, or phone call

Understanding FNB eWallet Reversals

Sending money to the wrong number happens to many South Africans. The good news is that FNB allows you to reverse eWallet payments under certain conditions.

An eWallet reversal is the process of cancelling a money transfer after you have sent it. This service helps you recover your money if you made a mistake with the recipient’s number or the amount.

Important: Not all eWallet payments can be reversed. Success depends on timing and whether the recipient has withdrawn the money.

⚠️ Key Point: FNB does not guarantee that reversals will always succeed. Each case is handled differently based on the circumstances.

🚨 Critical 24-Hour Time Limit

The most important rule about eWallet reversals is the 24-hour window. You can only reverse an eWallet payment within 24 hours from the time you sent it.

When You CAN Reverse:

  • The payment was sent less than 24 hours ago
  • The recipient has not claimed or withdrawn the money
  • You have the correct transaction reference number

When You CANNOT Reverse:

  • More than 24 hours have passed since sending
  • The recipient has already withdrawn the money
  • The eWallet has been claimed by the recipient

After 24 hours: You will need to contact the recipient directly and ask them to return the money. FNB cannot help you after this time.

✅ Method 1: Reverse Using FNB App

This is the fastest and easiest way to reverse an eWallet payment. You can do this from anywhere using your smartphone.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Open the FNB App on your phone and log in with your credentials
  2. Go to Payments in the main menu
  3. Select eWallet from the payments options
  4. Tap Transaction History to see your recent eWallet payments
  5. Find and select the specific transaction you want to reverse
  6. Click the Reverse button (this only appears if reversal is possible)
  7. Confirm the reversal when prompted
  8. Wait for SMS confirmation that the reversal was successful

💡 Pro Tip: If you do not see a “Reverse” button, it means the 24-hour window has passed or the recipient has already withdrawn the money.

Processing Time: When successful, the money returns to your account within a few minutes. You will receive an SMS confirmation.

Method 2: Reverse Using USSD Code

This method works on any phone, even basic feature phones without internet access. It is very convenient if you do not have the FNB app.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Dial *120*321# from your registered FNB cellphone number
  2. Select option 2 (Send Money) from the menu
  3. Select option 3 (eWallet Reversal)
  4. View the list of recent eWallet transactions
  5. Select the transaction you want to reverse by entering its number
  6. Follow the prompts to confirm the reversal
  7. Wait for SMS confirmation of the successful reversal

⚠️ Important: This service only works on the phone number registered with your FNB account. It will not work from a different number.

📞 Method 3: Contact FNB Call Centre

If you cannot use the app or USSD code, you can call FNB directly to request a reversal. This method takes longer and costs R50.

Contact Numbers:

eWallet Queries 087 575 9405
General Queries 087 575 9404
Complaints Resolution 087 575 9408 (Option 1)
From Outside SA +27 11 371 3711 then dial 087 number

What to Tell the Agent:

  • Your full name and FNB account number
  • The recipient’s cellphone number
  • The exact amount you sent
  • The date and time you sent the eWallet
  • Transaction reference number (if you have it)

Processing Time: Call centre reversals take between 4 to 15 business days. The agent will give you a reference number for tracking.

💰 Fees and Processing Times

Method Fee Processing Time
FNB App Usually Free* Few minutes
USSD Code (*120*321#) Usually Free* Few minutes
Call Centre R50 4-15 business days

*Note: While the reversal itself may be free when using the app or USSD, the original eWallet sending fee is usually not refunded. Always verify current fees with FNB as they may change.

💡 Remember: You pay the fee even if the reversal is not successful. FNB charges this fee for attempting the reversal, not for completing it.

Automatic Reversal After 15 Days

If you send money to an inactive eWallet (a number that is not registered for eWallet), FNB automatically returns the money after 15 business days. You do not need to do anything.

This safety feature protects you from permanently losing money sent to wrong or invalid numbers.

🚨 Critical Scam Warnings

Fraudsters in South Africa are using eWallet reversals as part of their scams. Protect yourself by knowing how these scams work.

Fake Reversal Fee Scams

How it works: Someone calls pretending to be from FNB. They say you need to pay a large fee to reverse a transaction.

The truth: The real FNB reversal fee is only R50 (when using call centre). Nobody will ever ask you to pay hundreds or thousands of Rand for a reversal.

Action: Hang up immediately and call FNB on 087 575 9444 to report the scam.

Overpayment Reversal Scams

How it works: Someone “accidentally” sends you too much money via eWallet. They then ask you to reverse part of it or send money back to another number.

The truth: The original payment is fraudulent. When the bank discovers this, they will reverse it and you will lose both the original amount and the money you “returned”.

Action: Never send money back without first verifying with FNB that the original payment is legitimate and cleared.

Fake OTP Requests

How it works: Someone calls saying they are from FNB and need your One-Time PIN (OTP) to help reverse a transaction.

The truth: FNB will NEVER ask you for your OTP over the phone. This is a common phishing scam to steal your banking details.

Action: Never share your OTP with anyone. End the call immediately and report it to 087 575 9444.

How to Identify Real FNB Communications:

  • FNB will never ask for your PIN, password, or OTP
  • FNB will never ask you to download software to “help” with reversals
  • FNB will never send you links via SMS or email to “reverse” transactions
  • All legitimate FNB numbers start with 087 or +27 11

✅ How to Avoid Needing Reversals

Prevention is always better and cheaper than trying to reverse payments. Here are practical tips to avoid mistakes.

Before You Send Money:

  1. Double-check the cellphone number before pressing send
  2. Verify the amount is correct
  3. Save recipient numbers in your phone contacts to avoid typing errors
  4. Ask the recipient to confirm their number via WhatsApp or call
  5. Start with small amounts when sending to someone new
  6. Use FNB’s account verification feature when possible

After Sending Money:

  • Check your transaction history immediately
  • Contact the recipient to confirm they received it
  • Keep all SMS confirmations and reference numbers
  • Act quickly if you notice any mistake

💡 Pro Tip: Enable transaction notifications on the FNB app. You will get instant alerts for every payment, helping you catch mistakes immediately.

What If You Missed the 24-Hour Window?

If more than 24 hours have passed, FNB cannot reverse the transaction through their system. However, you still have some options.

Option 1: Contact the Recipient Directly

Call or send an SMS to the number where you sent the money. Politely explain the mistake and ask them to return the money.

What to say: “Hello, I accidentally sent you R[amount] via FNB eWallet on [date]. This was a mistake. Please can you return the money to my number [your number]?”

Many people will understand and help you. Be patient and polite.

Option 2: Request Recipient Details from FNB

FNB can help you get contact details for the recipient so you can reach them. This service costs R313.

Call 087 575 9404 and request this service. FNB will try to get the recipient’s contact information, but they cannot force the recipient to return your money.

Option 3: Legal Action (Large Amounts Only)

If the amount is significant and the recipient refuses to return it, you can consider legal action.

  • Small Claims Court (for amounts up to R20,000)
  • Open a case of theft at your local police station
  • Consult with a lawyer for larger amounts

Note: Legal action can be expensive and time-consuming. Only consider this for significant amounts.

🚨 If You Were Scammed or Defrauded

Do NOT use the normal reversal process if you were scammed. This is a fraud case and requires different action.

Immediate Actions:

  1. Call FNB Fraud Line immediately: 087 575 9444 (available 24/7)
  2. From outside SA: +27 11 369 2924
  3. Explain that you were scammed and give all details
  4. Write down the reference number they give you
  5. Complete and submit the FNB Fraud Claim Form within 3 days
  6. Open a case at your local police station
  7. Report the scam to SABRIC (South African Banking Risk Information Centre)

⚠️ Time is Critical: The faster you report fraud, the better chance FNB has of recovering your money. Do not wait even one hour.

📞 Important FNB Contact Numbers

Service Phone Number
eWallet Queries & Reversals 087 575 9405
General Customer Service 087 575 9404
Fraud Reporting (24/7) 087 575 9444
Complaints Resolution 087 575 9408 (Option 1)
Lost/Stolen Card 087 575 9406
International (Outside SA) +27 11 371 3711 (then dial 087 number)
Fraud Line (Outside SA) +27 11 369 2924
Email care@fnb.co.za

💡 Secure Chat: You can also use Secure Chat on the FNB App to speak directly to bankers 24/7. This is a safe and convenient way to get help.

❓ Common Questions About eWallet Reversals

Can I reverse an eWallet if I just made a mistake with the amount?

Yes, as long as it is within 24 hours and the recipient has not claimed the money. Use the FNB app or USSD code to reverse it.

What if the recipient already withdrew part of the money?

You cannot reverse any eWallet once the recipient has claimed or withdrawn it. You will need to contact them directly to ask for the money back.

Do I get a refund of the eWallet sending fee?

No, the original eWallet sending fee is usually not refunded even if the reversal is successful. Check with FNB for current policies.

Why can I not see a reverse button on my FNB app?

This means either more than 24 hours have passed, the recipient claimed the money, or there is a technical issue. Try updating your app or contact FNB customer service.

Can I reverse an eWallet sent to someone outside South Africa?

The same 24-hour rules apply. However, international eWallet policies may vary. Contact FNB customer service for specific guidance on international reversals.

How do I know if my reversal was successful?

You will receive an SMS confirmation from FNB. The money will also appear back in your account. Check your transaction history on the app to confirm.

What happens if I send money to a number that does not exist?

If the number is not registered for eWallet service, FNB will automatically return the money to your account after 15 business days. You do not need to request a reversal.

📌 Our Final Recommendations

Reversing FNB eWallet payments is possible but comes with strict conditions. The 24-hour window is the most important rule to remember.

Always act immediately if you send money to the wrong number. Use the FNB app or USSD code (*120*321#) for the fastest reversals.

Prevention is your best protection. Double-check every cellphone number and amount before you press send. Save recipient numbers in your phone contacts to avoid typing mistakes.

Stay alert for scams. Never share your PIN, password, or OTP with anyone claiming to help with reversals. FNB will never ask for these details.

If you were scammed, report it immediately to the FNB Fraud Line on 087 575 9444. Do not wait – time is critical for recovering your money.

Need to Report a Banking Complaint?

If you are unhappy with how FNB handled your reversal request, you can escalate your complaint to these independent bodies:

National Financial Ombud (NFO) 011 712 1800
Banking Ombudsman 0860 800 900
Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) 0800 110 443
National Credit Regulator (NCR) 0860 627 627

These services are free and independent. They can help resolve disputes between you and your bank.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and was last updated in November 2025. Financial regulations, fees, and requirements may change. Always verify current information with FNB directly before making financial decisions.

For complaints or disputes, contact the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) at 0800 110 443 or visit www.fsca.co.za

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