Agent banking extends financial services through a network of trusted agents who act as cash-in/cash-out points for clients. Agents maintain a pre-funded float account; digital money transfers happen automatically when cash changes hands, so the organization's books stay in sync without manual entries.

How it works

1. A client is set up as an agent in Symba Portal, which assigns a unique agent identifier and automatically opens a dedicated float savings account.
2. Clients interact with the agent either by submitting a request via USSD or by visiting the agent in person.
3. When the request is accepted or the transfer initiated, Symba Payments moves money between accounts automatically and sends SMS confirmations to both parties.

Agent management

• Managing agents — Designate clients as agents and manage their status in Symba Portal

Transaction types

• Withdrawal requests — A client requests cash from an agent via USSD. The agent accepts (and hands over cash) or rejects.
• Deposit requests — A client pre-registers a deposit via USSD, then brings cash to the agent. The agent confirms receipt and the amount.
• Direct transfers — An agent initiates an immediate transfer from their float to any client account, without the client needing to submit a request first.

Agent USSD menu

Agents log in to the USSD system using their security code and see an Agent Services menu in addition to their regular account menus. From there they can:

• View and action pending withdrawal requests
• View and action pending deposit requests
• Initiate direct transfers to client accounts

Related Topics

• Managing agents
• USSD