Have you ever tried making a quick call, only to find out that your MTN airtime disappeared without notice? It has happened to almost everyone: the balance drops, bundles silently renew, or the network stops indicating how much airtime is left. The real frustration isn’t the missing airtime itself but rather not knowing why it happened and just how much you have left before the next top-up.

Interestingly, MTN has provided various methods for users to check their airtime balance in seconds, whether you are using a feature phone, smartphone, or even while roaming abroad. Once you know these tools (USSD, SMS, the MyMTN app, and via online portal method) you can monitor your airtime usage like a pro and escape unexpected disconnections. This guide will show you exactly how to stay in control of your airtime balance. 

Why You Should Regularly Check Your MTN Airtime Balance 

Check your MTN airtime balance

Your balance is not just about the number but also about the level of communication. Checking your balance regularly can save you from disrupted calls, expired data sessions, failed deliveries of SMS, and urgent moments when you suddenly can’t dial out.

If you are subscribed to any auto-renewal services like MTN data tariff  plans, social bundles, caller tunes, or value-added services, your airtime will occasionally get deducted without prior notice. Checking your airtime frequently allows you to track usage, with that, you can estimate billing patterns and identify unauthorized deductions. Monitoring of airtime will also enable parents, business owners, or people who share many lines to manage their expenses.

This implies that frequent checking of your MTN balance keeps you in control, helps you avoid surprises, and teaches you how to manage your airtime like a professional.

How to Check MTN Airtime Balance With USSD Codes

USSD is the most reliable and fastest way. It works on all phones without the need for the Internet, and responses are immediate.

Primary USSD Code

  • Dial: *310#
  • You will instantly see the remaining airtime on your screen. This works for prepaid lines across all MTN coverages.

It works on even weak mobile data, making USSD the most reliable option.

How to Check MTN Airtime Balance via SMS

You will be able to check your balance through SMS whenever the USSD network is congested or temporarily unavailable.

  • Simply send: “BAL” to 131
  • MTN will respond with an SMS, showing your current airtime balance, its validity period, and any attached bonuses.

This is useful for those who like to see confirmation in writing that they can look at again.

Checking Airtime Balance with MyMTN App

The MyMTN App allows you to manage your airtime, data, bundles, and subscriptions in an up-to-date, digital-friendly manner. It gives an instant, visibly clean breakdown of your remaining balance.

Follow these Steps:

  • Download the MyMTN app on the Google Play Store or App Store.
  • Open the application and log in with your MTN number.
  • Your airtime balance is displayed on the home screen instantly.
  • Tap “Balance” for detailed usage history.

Along with the balance available, users will be able to get access to more: usage insights, settings for auto-renewal, and purchase history.

How to Check MTN Airtime Balance Online (Web Portal)

MTN allows checking the balance online through its official self-service portal.

Steps: 

Once you log in, the balances for airtime, data, and bundles will appear on your dashboard.

This option is ideal in cases when you check your balance from a laptop or desktop, or when you are managing many MTN lines.

How to Check the Airtime Balance When Roaming

This depends on the roaming partner; so, when abroad, some of your usual USSD codes may not work. Fortunately, MTN has roaming-compatible methods.

Try these first: 

  • Dial *556# works in most countries
  • Dial *131#, for the roaming self-service menu.
  • Use the MyMTN app via Wi-Fi.
  • Log in to the MTN web portal.

If none of these respond due to issues in roaming compatibility, then connect to an alternate local network manually through your phone’s mobile network settings.

How to Check MTN Airtime Balance for Another Number

If you manage airtime for family, employees, or a second SIM, MTN lets you check another number’s balance using:

1, The MyMTN App

Add several numbers under “Manage Accounts.” You can see each balance separately.

2. The Web Portal

Click on multi-SIM management to switch your profiles.

3. Linked SIM Services (Region-specific)

Some MTN regions provide special USSD codes for balance inquiries of registered child lines that are included in family plans or enterprise accounts.

Why Your MTN Balance Isn’t Showing

When your USSD, SMS, or application fails to give you your balance, it is usually because of one of the following:

1. Network Issues

In addition, the heavy traffic could block the response from USSD, as well as tower congestion and temporary outages. Sometimes it loads indefinitely or returns “Connection problem.” You can try again in a few minutes, or switch to SMS or the MyMTN app.

2. Invalid USSD Entry

Entering *556 instead of *556# or forgetting the hash symbol often activates a response indicating an invalid code. You must ensure to double-check the USSD string before dialing.

3. App Login or Account Errors

These may occur due to an expired password, an inactive MTN account, an older version of the application, or due to server issues.

That’s normally fixed by an app update or by resetting your password. Solutions and Workarounds Use alternative channels: SMS, app, portal. Restart the phone to refresh the network registration. Turn airplane mode on/off. Try checking the balance at a later time during low-traffic hours. Update the MyMTN app or reinstall it. If neither of these works, contact MTN support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Checking Your MTN Airtime Balance 

What is the fastest way to check my MTN airtime balance? 

USSD is the fastest, particularly *556#, instantly working and not needing the internet. 

How can I check my airtime balance without a smartphone? 

Yes, USSD and SMS methods work on all phones, including basic feature phones. 

Is checking my airtime balance free? 

No, MTN doesn’t charge for any balance inquiry via USSD or SMS. 

Why does my balance reduce automatically? 

This could be due to autorenew bundles, background data usage of applications, or value-added services you had subscribed to. You can check all your subscriptions using either *447# or *123#, depending on your region. 

Can I check my balance when my SIM has no airtime? 

Yes, for balance checks (via USSD or SMS Method) neither airtime nor data is required. 

Can I check someone else’s MTN balance? 

Yes, provided you have access to their MyMTN app profile or even a linked account. MTN does not allow unauthorized access to another user’s balance. 

Why does USSD sometimes not respond? 

That is usually network congestion. Please try again, or switch to SMS or the app. 

Conclusion 

Checking your MTN airtime balance in 2025 doesn’t have to be confusing—whether you prefer USSD, SMS, the app, or the online portal, MTN provides multiple easy tools to keep you in control. Once you understand each method and how to troubleshoot common issues, managing your airtime will turn out to be quite simple. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay connected-your airtime should always work for you, not against you.