I still remember that frustrating afternoon in 2019 when I found myself stranded in downtown Lagos, unable to make an urgent call because I had no idea how to check my MTN balance. After fumbling with my phone for an eternity, a kind stranger showed me a simple USSD code that would become second nature over the next decade. That small interaction sparked my interest in mobile telecommunications, and today, I am writing an article for those who are traveling and using MTN services across multiple African countries and beyond.
Whether you’re a new MTN user or someone who occasionally forgets the balance check methods (we’ve all been there!), this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about checking your MTN balance quickly and efficiently.
MTN Balance Checking Options
MTN, one of Africa’s largest mobile network operators with a significant presence in many countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and Uganda, offers several ways to check your account balance. Before diving into the specific methods, it’s a good idea to first understand what we mean by “balance checking.”
When we talk about checking your MTN balance, we’re typically referring to one of several balances:
- Airtime balance: The credit available for making calls, sending SMS, or using data (if you’re on a prepaid plan)
- Data balance: Your remaining internet data allocation.
- SMS balance: The number of text messages you have left in your plan.
- Bonus balance: Any promotional credit or rewards you’ve earned.
Each of these balances can be checked using similar methods, though the specific codes might differ slightly. Having clarity on which balance you need to check will help you use the right method.
Furthermore, in the past six months alone, MTN has enhanced its digital platforms. In January 2024, significant updates to its mobile app streamlined the balance-checking process. The MyMTN app now features a prominently displayed balance on the home screen, eliminating the need to navigate through multiple menus. However, users’ reviews of the app are not good, and it seems most of them are unsatisfied with it.
Additionally, MTN has been gradually rolling out AI-powered chatbots across its markets, allowing users to check balances through conversational interfaces on WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. These developments reflect the industry’s broader shift toward more intuitive, accessible customer service options.
How to Check MTN Balance: 5 Proven Methods
1. Using USSD Codes (The Quick Method)
In my experience, USSD codes remain the fastest and most reliable way to check your MTN balance, especially when you’re in a hurry or have limited internet connectivity.
To check your main airtime balance:
- Open your phone’s dialer
- Enter
*310#(This is the universal MTN balance code in most regions) - Press the call button
- Wait for a response showing your balance
Note: MTN USSD – *556# is no longer working
Latest MTN USSD Codes in Africa (March 2025)
MTN periodically changes or updates the USSD code, which also varies by country. Below are the updated codes for Nigeria and South Africa based on NCC and MTN updates:
Nigeria MTN Codes
| Service | Code | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Airtime Balance Check | *310# | Instantly view remaining airtime. |
| Airtime Recharge | *311*Voucher PIN# | Recharge using voucher PIN (e.g., *311*1234567890#). |
| Data Purchase/plans | *312# | Browse data bundles. |
| Data Balance Check | *323# | Check remaining data. |
| NIN Link/Update | *785# | Mandatory SIM-NIN linking per NCC regulations. |
| Number Check | *123# → Account Info → My Number | Retrieve your phone number. |
| DND Management | 2442 | Activate/deactivate “Do Not Disturb” for unsolicited messages. |
| VAS | *305# | For Value Added Services |
| Borrow Airtime | *303# | Get emergency airtime (eligibility applies). |
South Africa MTN Codes
| Service | Code | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Balance Check | *136# | View airtime, data, and SMS balances. |
| Data Purchase | *136*2# | Buy data bundles. |
| Airtime Transfer | *136*6328*[Number]*[Amount]# | Send airtime to another number (e.g., *136*6328*0812345678*50#). |
| Roaming Activation | *135# | Enable international roaming. |
| Customer Care | 135 | Directly connect to MTN support. |
| IMEI Check | *#06# | Display device IMEI number. |
| Cancel Data Subscription | *136*5# | Opt out of auto-renewing data plans. |
Key Notes:
- Nigeria’s Codes:
- Old codes (e.g., *556# for data) no longer work.
- Mandatory use of
*785#for NIN linking to avoid SIM restrictions
- South Africa Updates:
- Use
*136#as the primary menu for most services. - Bank-integrated recharges (e.g., Capitec:
*120*3279#)
- Use
- Regional Variations:
- Ghana/Uganda/Kenya: Codes differ; always confirm via MTN’s local website.
For real-time updates, dial *130*0# (South Africa) or *123# (Nigeria). MTN periodically updates codes for compliance or service improvements.
What I love about the USSD method is its reliability. Even when you’re in an area with poor internet connectivity, USSD usually works without a hitch. I’ve found myself in remote villages where this was my only option, and it never failed me.
2. Using the MyMTN App (The Comprehensive Method)
The MyMTN app is your best bet if you’re looking for detailed information about all your balances in one place.
To check your balance using the app:
- Download the MyMTN or MyMTN-NG app from your device’s app store. (Android or iOS)
- Register or log in with your MTN number
- Your main balance will be displayed on the home screen
- Tap on “Balance Details” for a breakdown of all your balances
The app offers much more than balance checking. You can view your usage history, purchase bundles, and even take advantage of personalized offers. Over the years, one of my friends travelling to Nigeria has saved thousands of Naira by spotting discounted data bundles through the app that he wouldn’t have known about otherwise.
3. MTN Website (The Desktop Method)
The MTN website proves invaluable if you are working on my laptop and need to check your MTN balance without picking up the phone.
To check your balance on the MTN website:
- Visit the official MTN website for your country
- Log in to your account (or create one if you haven’t already)
- Navigate to the “My Account” or “Dashboard” section
- Your balance information will be displayed prominently
The website also offers detailed usage analytics that can help you understand your consumption patterns better.
4. SMS Method (The Low-Tech Option)
SMS checking is a reliable alternative for those times when you’re using a basic phone or the USSD service is congested.
To check your balance via SMS:
Create a new message and send it according to your region given below:
Nigeria:
- Airtime Balance: Text
BALto 556. - Data Balance: Text
INFOto 123.
South Africa:
- Airtime/Data Balance: Text
BALto 136.
Ghana:
- Airtime Balance: Text
0to 1244. - Data Balance: Text
2to 1244.
Kenya:
- Airtime Balance: Text
BALto 456. - Data Balance: Text
DATAto 456.
Note: Codes may vary by country. Confirm via MTN’s local SMS shortcodes.
This method is particularly useful when traveling internationally and using an MTN roaming service, as USSD codes sometimes behave differently across borders.
5. Customer Service (The Human Touch)
Sometimes, nothing beats speaking with a real person, especially if you have questions beyond just your balance.
To check your balance through customer service:
- Dial 135 or 100 (varies by country).
- Follow the IVR prompts to reach a customer service representative
- Provide any necessary verification information
- Ask about your current balance
Codes may vary by region. Confirm via MTN’s official website or local outlet for specific issues. Alternatively, checking the MTN website or contacting them directly using the provided numbers is recommended. Momo MTN users can have full list on the MTN website’s contact us page
| Country | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| South Africa | 135 |
| Benin | 111 |
| Cameroon | 8400 |
| Cote D’Ivoire | 555 |
| Congo Brazzaville | 105 |
| Eswatini | 922 |
| Guinea Conakry | 8800 |
| Guinea Bissau | 8800 |
| Ghana | 100 |
| Liberia | 111 |
| Rwanda | 100 |
| Uganda | 100 |
| Zambia | 215 |
| Afghanistan | 779 |
Common Questions About Checking Your MTN Balance
The difference typically occurs because some channels show your multiple balances separately (main account, bonus account, etc.), while others might display only your primary balance. The MyMTN app generally provides the most comprehensive breakdown of all your balances.
In most countries, checking your balance via USSD or the app is completely free. However, when roaming internationally, standard roaming rates might apply when using USSD codes.
Network congestion is the most common culprit. During high-traffic periods (like holidays or major events), USSD services might be slower or temporarily unavailable. In these cases, try using the app or SMS method instead. System maintenance can also cause temporary disruptions, typically resolved within a few hours.
Simply put, you can’t—at least not directly. For privacy and security reasons, MTN doesn’t allow users to check another person’s balance without their permission. If you need to know a family member’s balance, you’ll need access to their phone or their account credentials.
USSD and SMS balance checks don’t use your data allocation. However, checking via the app or website will consume a small amount of data. In my experience, the app uses a few MBs per session, which is negligible unless you’re on a very limited data plan.
Balance information is generally updated in real time for prepaid accounts, but some transactions, especially for postpaid accounts, can be delayed by up to 24 hours. Also, international calls or roaming data usage sometimes take longer to reflect in your balance.
Yes! Even with zero credit, you can still check your balance using USSD codes or the app (if you’re connected to Wi-Fi).
Use the Right Method for Your Needs
Each balance checking method has its strengths:
- If you need a quick check with no data connection, use USSD
- For detailed breakdowns of all balances, use the app
- When you need historical usage information, the website is best
- If you have additional questions, call customer service
Understand Regional Differences
The codes might differ slightly if you travel between countries where MTN operates. I always make a point of saving the relevant codes for countries I frequently visit. For instance, while *136# works in South Africa, in Ghana, you might need to use *124# instead.
Conclusion: Staying Connected with Confidence
Checking your MTN balance is essential if you are traveling to countries where this telecom provider is active. It is necessary to keep track of your SIM balance, and it also helps you manage your communication resources effectively. Whether you prefer the simplicity of USSD codes, the comprehensive information provided by the app, or the personal touch of customer service, MTN offers multiple ways to stay informed about your account status.
If you think the codes mentioned in this article are not working and you have an updated one, I would like to know what that is. Please share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s help each other navigate the world of mobile telecommunications more effectively.