One night, after attending an event, I realized I had no ride home. I needed to book a ride. I pulled out my phone to request a ride. Just as I opened the app, I received a message that "Your data has finished". For a moment, I panicked about how I would get home. Then I remembered that I could borrow data on MTN. Within a minute, I reconnected, and booked my ride.
In this blog, I'll explain detailed steps on how to borrow data from MTN, who is eligible, code to borrow data from MTN and different methods you can use. It's a comprehensive guide for users who don't know how to avail MTN XtraByte service. Let us start!
What is MTN XtraByte Service?
MTN XtraByte is an emergency data borrowing service available to prepaid users. With this feature, customers can borrow data on MTN whenever their bundle finishes. The borrowed data is credited immediately, and repayment is deducted from the next recharge with a small service fee.
Who is Eligible to Borrow Data on MTN?
If you want this service, you need to qualify for this. For that purpose, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria
- Only MTN prepaid users can enjoy this service (postpaid lines aren’t included).
- Your line must be active and properly registered on the MTN network.
- To qualify, the SIM should have been in use for more than three months.
- You’re expected to have spent at least ₦200 monthly within that period.
- When making the request, your airtime balance should be very low, usually not above ₦75.
- You also need to clear any unpaid XtraByte loan before you can borrow it again.
Two Ways to Borrow Data from MTN
There are two options to borrow credit on the MTN line. You can choose any of these once you are eligible for these criteria. Here are the methods!
- Through USSD code
- Using MyMTN app
Use USSD Code to Borrow Data on MTN
The code to borrow data on the MTN line is *303#. Wondering how it works? Here are the steps!
- Firstly, dial *303# on the MTN line
- A menu box will be displayed. Select the option "XtraByte"
- You will see a list of data bundles.
- If you are eligible for this service, you can go ahead and select the bundle you need
- After selecting it, you will get the confirmation message of receiving the credit immediately on your MTN line.
Reminder: 15% service fee will be deducted when you borrow data from MTN! For example, if you borrow 50MB at ₦50, then you'll be charged with ₦75 next time.
How to Borrow Data via MyMTN App?
Want a smarter and easier solution for borrowing data on MTN? You can access this service on MyMTN App. This is a convenient and user-friendly app with simple navigation and endless features. To avail this service, you can download it through the App Store or Google Play Store. Here are the steps that you need to follow
- Once you download the app, you can login to it using your mobile number.
- On the home page of the app, you'll see an option of "Borrow". Select this option.
- Then some more options will be displayed. Click on "Data". In the next step, click on proceed to continue
- Choose the bundle from the displayed list and get an instant message from MTN on your borrowed data confirmation. Note: Suppose your MTN network is out of service or your app is not working. Want a solution?? You can use Cardgoal to buy data from MTN within no time. If you have unused gift cards, you can sell them on Cardgoal and use that money to buy data anytime!!
Issues While Borrowing Data on MTN and How to Fix Them?
- If your SIM is new you can’t borrow data. Keep your line active so that you can avail this service easily in the future.
- Sometimes the borrowed data takes a few minutes to appear. Restart your phone and wait a bit, or contact MTN support if it still doesn’t show.
- If you haven’t paid back previous borrowed data, you can’t borrow data. Make sure to clear your previous amount first to avail this service
- Sometimes, when you enter the USSD code to borrow data on MTN, it doesn't work. This can be a temporary network issue and if it still persists, contact the MTN support team.
FAQ's
- What is MTN XtraByte?
MTN XtraByte is a service that lets prepaid users borrow data instantly when their bundle runs out.
2. Who can borrow data from MTN?
Only MTN prepaid users with an active, registered line that has been in use for over 3 months and has low balance can borrow.
3. How can I borrow data on MTN?
You can borrow data from MTN via the USSD code *303# or through the MyMTN app.
4. Is there a fee for borrowing data on MTN?
Yes, a 15% service fee is added and deducted when you recharge next.
5. What if the borrowed data from MTN doesnt appear?
Restart your phone and wait a few minutes. If it still doesn’t show, contact MTN support