Abstract: Methods and systems for providing credit through USSD are described. A user dials a short USSD code onto his or her mobile device, and is prompted to enter an authentication code to confirm his or her identity. Once authenticated, the user is presented with a USSD menu that includes an option to pay with credit. The user chooses this option, and is prompted to enter an amount for the credit. The service provider checks the credit score of the user, and approves or denies credit based on the score. When the credit score is acceptable, the user is asked to enter the merchant ID for the store and to confirm checkout. The amount for the purchase is then transferred to the merchant by the service provider.