Customers of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) will begin to pay more for SMS transaction alerts as the bank has announced an upward review of its charges. Effective Thursday, May 1, 2025, the fee for receiving transaction alerts via text message will rise from N4 to N6.
The increment, which comes as part of the bank’s service adjustment policy, was communicated to customers through official notifications. According to GTBank, the change reflects “current market realities and operational costs” involved in delivering timely transaction notifications.
This adjustment means that for every debit or credit alert received via SMS, GTBank account holders will now be charged N6 instead of the previous N4. While customers can still opt for free in-app push notifications or email alerts, those relying on text message alerts particularly customers with limited internet access will be most affected.
The move has sparked mixed reactions, with some customers expressing concern over the cumulative financial impact, especially in a period marked by economic hardship and rising inflation. Others argue that digital alternatives such as the bank’s mobile app and email alerts provide cost-effective substitutes, even though they depend on data and stable internet service.
GTBank joins a growing list of Nigerian banks adjusting various service charges amid increasing operational costs in the banking sector. Financial analysts believe that such marginal adjustments may become more common as banks respond to regulatory pressures and cost constraints.
For customers who wish to avoid the higher SMS charges, the bank advises switching to its mobile app or internet banking platform, where real-time alerts are available at no extra cost.