How To Check Airtime And Data Balance On MTN, Airtel, GLO, & 9Mobile

Do you need help checking your airtime and data balances? Maybe you no longer remember the codes, or they have refused to work.

Well, the codes have likely been changed. In 2023, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) directed all Telecos to harmonise their USSD code. That way, everyone uses the same code to check Airtime and data balances. 

In this article, I will update you on the latest ways to check your airtime, data balances, and related services across any network in Nigeria.

4 Ways To Check Your Airtime And Data Balance

There are several ways to check your balances across networks: USSD codes, SMS, chatbots, and mobile apps. 

While USSD codes may be the most common method, they are not the only one. You could send an SMS to a number, e.g., MTN’s 312, to receive your balance as a text.

You can also use chatbots on the network’s website or access your airtime or data balance from its mobile apps. 

The last option is to call customer service and request your balance. If you can remember the customer service line, you can also memorise the USSD code. 

How To Check Your Airtime And Data Balance On MTN

You can check your MTN airtime or data balance using the USSD code, SMS, the website or mobile app.

1. Use USSD Code: 

Previously, users could check their balances with a *556# USSD code, but not anymore. Here are the latest codes:

• Airtime balance check: *310#
• Data balance check: *323#
• Recharge airtime: *311* Voucher PIN #
• Borrow airtime: *303#
• Buy data: *312#
• Share airtime and data: *321#
• Value added services: *305#
• Link your NIN to your MTN line: *996#
• Check your mobile phone number*123*1*1#

2. Send a message to 312:

Alternatively, you can send “2” to 312 to retrieve your data balance.

3. Use the MTN app, Zigi Chatbot, MTN website and WhatsApp:

You can use the Zigi chatbot on the MTN website, MyMTN app, and WhatsApp. Then, request your airtime or data balance and follow the prompt; it will ask for your mobile number and display your balance. An OTP may be sent to your number to confirm the request.

How To Check Your Airtime And Data Balance On Airtel NG

You can check your Airtel NG airtime or data balance using the USSD code, SMS, or mobile app.

1. Use USSD Code: 

Previously, you could use the shortcode *124#, but not anymore. Here are the new codes:

• Airtime balance check: *310#
• Data balance check: *323#
• Recharge airtime: *311* Voucher PIN #
• Borrow airtime: *303#
• Buy data: *312#
• Share airtime and data: *321#
• Value added services: *305#
• Link your NIN to your Airtel line: *996#

2. Use the My Airtel app:

You can use the “My Airtel ” app to check your airtime and data balance. 

Once you’ve downloaded the app, you must register your number to get an OTP for verification before logging in to check your balance. You should find your airtime and data balance on the homepage.

How To Check Your Airtime And Data Balance On GLO

You can check your GLO airtime or data balance using the USSD code, SMS, website, or mobile app.

1. Use USSD Code: 

Formerly, users could dial *124# to check their airtime balance, but the code has changed. Here are the new USSD codes: 

• Airtime balance check: *310#
• Data balance check: *323#
• Recharge airtime: *311* Voucher PIN #
• Borrow airtime: *303#
• Buy data: *312#
• Share mobile data and airtime: *321#
• Value added services: *305#
• Link your NIN to your Airtel line: *996#

2. Send  “BAL” to 127:

You can text “INFO” to 127 to receive your data balance via SMS.

3. Use the Glo Café app:

Download and install the “Glo Café” from the Google Play and Apple Store, then log in to view your airtime and data balance.

4. Use the Glo Self-Care Portal:

Another option is to use the Glo self-care portal. If you’re a new user, you will need to log in or sign up, and then you can log in to check your airtime or data balance. 

How To Check Your Airtime And Data Balance On 9Mobile

You can check your 9Mobile airtime or data balance using the USSD code, SMS, or mobile app.

1. Use USSD Code: 

Remember “Etisalat”, which is now called 9Mobile? The USSD codes were formerly *232# and *228# for checking airtime and data balance, respectively. Here are the latest codes for actions on the 9Mobile network:

• Airtime balance check: *310#
• Data balance check: *323#
• Recharge airtime: *311* Voucher PIN #
• Borrow airtime: *303#
• Buy data: *312#
• Share airtime and data: *321#
• Value added services: *305#
• Link your NIN to your Airtel line: *996#

2. Send “BAL” to 228:

Another option is to use SMS. You will have to send BAL to 228. Once you have done so, you should receive a text message from 9Mobile with your current account airtime balance. To check your data balance, send INFO” to 228.

3. Use the 9Mobile app:

Alternatively, you could use the 9Mobile App (ig9ite), available on Google Play or the App Store. You should find your airtime and data balance on the homepage when you log in to the app.

Frequently Asked Questions About Checking Your Airtime And Data Balance

1. What If I Don’t Know The Ussd Code For My Network?

Telecos in Nigeria now have a harmonised code, i.e. *310# and *323#, for checking airtime and data balance. However, you can check their respective websites or call their customer care agents for additional support.

2. Are There Any Charges For Checking My Balance?

There are no charges for checking both airtime and data balances across any network in Nigeria. 

3. What Should I Do If I’m Unable To Check My Balance?

If you can’t check your balance, try restarting your phone or checking your network. If the problem persists, please contact your network’s customer care for assistance.

4. How Else Can I Buy Mobile Data Online?

Besides the USSD code, the Cardtonic app offers an easier way to purchase mobile data. You can also make other purchases, like buying airtime, paying utility bills, and even buying gadgets.

5. How Often Should I Check My Airtime And Data Balances

It all depends on the frequency of usage and preferred plans. If you are not a heavy user or often buy large airtime/data bundles, you may not need to check the balance often. Otherwise, you should check your balances at least daily.

Conclusion

Checking your Airtime and Data balance has become easier than before. With a unified code of *310# and *323#, you can check your airtime and data balance across any network in Nigeria.

Other alternatives, such as SMS, mobile apps, or chatbots, can also be used to check your airtime and data balance. If any of these options are out of reach, please contact customer care or visit their websites for more information.