How To Borrow Data From Airtel

Greetings and welcome to popup.com.ng, in today’s article we’ll be taking you through the step-by-step process on how to borrow data from airtel.

In March 2023, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) directed all telecommunications providers to harmonize USSD codes across all Nigerian mobile networks, resulting in new codes being introduced. As of May 17, 2023, these new codes have come into effect. Amidst these changes, staying connected and having access to data is crucial in today’s digital age. However, there are times when we run out of data at the most inconvenient moments, such as when working on an urgent project, streaming an important event, or trying to meet a deadline.

In situations like these, Airtel’s Data Credit Loan Service offers a convenient solution. This service allows eligible subscribers to borrow data and pay later, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity when needed most. In this guide, we will walk you through the simple process of borrowing data from Airtel.

I want you to be rest assured that this guide will cover the following related search queries below;

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What Is Airtel Data Loan Service And It Benefits

Airtel’s Data Credit Loan Service, also known as Airtel Thanks Data Loan, is a convenient option for prepaid users who run out of mobile data but urgently need to access the internet. It essentially allows you to borrow a small data bundle and repay it on your next recharge.

Here are some key benefits of this service:

  • Instant Data Access: If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve used up all your data, borrowing data allows you to continue browsing, streaming, or using apps immediately.
  • No Need for Immediate Recharge: You don’t have to rush out to buy airtime immediately. The borrowed data and any service charge will be deducted from your next recharge.
  • Flexible Options: Airtel typically offers a variety of data loan packages with different data allowances. You can choose the one that best suits your needs.

However, it’s important to consider these points as well:

  • Service Charge: There’s a service charge associated with borrowing data. This means you’ll end up paying slightly more than the actual data amount.
  • Repayment Requirement: The borrowed data and service charge are deducted from your next recharge. Make sure you’ll have enough balance to cover it to avoid any service interruptions.
  • Limited Amounts: The maximum data you can borrow depends on your recharge history. Users with a good recharge record will likely be eligible for larger data loans.

What Is The Requirements To Be Eligible for Airtel’s Data Borrowing Service

The exact requirements for Airtel’s Data Borrowing Service (Airtel Thanks Data Loan) might not be publicly available due to their internal policies. However, based on personal experience and few information from various sources, here’s what you’ll likely need to be eligible:

  • Be a Prepaid Airtel Customer: This service is not available for postpaid users.
  • Active SIM Registration: Your Airtel SIM card must be registered with your National Identification Number (NIN).
  • Minimum Recharge History: You’ll need to have a history of recharging your Airtel line. The specific minimum recharge amount or duration of recharge activity is not officially confirmed, but due to personal experience, I suggest an average monthly recharge of N200 (Nigerian Naira) for at least 2-3 months.
  • No Outstanding Loans: You shouldn’t have any pending airtime or data loan balances on your Airtel number.

What Is The Code To Borrow Data From Airtel

In March 2023, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) directed all telecommunications providers to harmonize USSD codes across all Nigerian mobile networks. As a result, new codes have been introduced, and the old codes have been deactivated.

The new code to borrow data from Airtel (and all other networks) is *303#. Please note that the previous code, *500#, is no longer valid and has been deactivated since 2023.

Other Updated USSD Codes for Airtel and All Networks

Here are the updated codes for various services:

How To Borrow Data From Airtel In Nigeria

Discard other sources that are informing you that you can borrow data from airtel through MyAirtel App or Airtel website. The only way to borrow data from airtel is only

  • Via Calling Of Customer Care
  • Via Ussd Code.

We’ll explain a detailed step-by-step guide on how to achieve this.

How To Borrow Data From Airtel Via Customer Care

  1. Dial Airtel Customer Care Number: You can find the latest Airtel customer care number on their website or app. As of May 2024, a common number is likely 111 (subject to change).
  2. Follow the Interactive Voice Response (IVR): The IVR system will guide you through various options. Listen carefully and select the option related to “Borrowing Data” or “Data Loan.”
  3. Speak to a Customer Care Representative: Once connected, explain to the representative that you want to borrow data. They will guide you through the available options and process your request.

How To Borrow Data From Airtel Using The New USSD Code

  1. Dial *303#: This is the new universal USSD code for borrowing services across all Nigerian mobile networks, including Airtel.
  2. Navigate the Menu: Once you dial *303#, you’ll see a menu with various options. Look for the option related to “Borrow Data” or similar wording.
  3. Select Borrow Data: Choose the option to borrow data. You might need to navigate through sub-menus depending on the specific network interface.
  4. Choose Data Bundle: You’ll likely see a list of available data loan packages with different data allowances and service charges. Select the one that best suits your needs.
  5. Confirm Transaction: Confirm your selection to borrow the chosen data bundle. You’ll typically receive a confirmation message once successful.

Things to Remember:

  • There might be a service charge associated with borrowing data. Make sure you understand the charges before confirming the loan.
  • The amount of data you can borrow depends on your Airtel recharge history. Users with a good recharge record are likely eligible for larger data loans.
  • The borrowed data and service charge will be deducted from your next recharge. Ensure you have enough balance to avoid service interruptions.

How Much Does Airtel Charge For Borrowed Data

Airtel charges a service fee on borrowed data, which is usually a percentage of the data bundle amount. Based on my personal experience, it seems the service charge for Airtel is around 15%.

Here’s a breakdown of the cost:

  • Data Borrowed: 100MB
  • Regular Price: 100 Naira (assumed)
  • Service Charge: 15% (of 100 Naira) = 15 Naira
  • Total Cost: 100 Naira (data) + 15 Naira (service charge) = 115 Naira

Frequently Asked Questions On How To Borrow Data From Airtel

How To Borrow Data From Airtel When You Are Still Owing

If you are still owing Airtel for a previous data loan, you won’t be able to borrow more data until you repay the outstanding loan. Airtel’s data borrowing service is designed to ensure that customers repay their loans before borrowing more data.

But there are some Airtel subscribers who have maintained a very good history with Airtel. Airtel might allow borrowing additional data as long as you stay within a specific credit limit.

How To Borrow Data From Airtel Without Using *500#

The old USSD code *500# for borrowing data from Airtel is no longer functional due to the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) standardization initiative Here are two alternative methods to borrow data from Airtel without using *500#:

Dial *303#: This is the new universal USSD code for borrowing services across all Nigerian mobile networks, including Airtel.

  1. Navigate the Menu: Once you dial *303#, you’ll see a menu with various options. Look for the option related to “Borrow Data” or similar wording.
  2. Select Borrow Data: Choose the option to borrow data. You might need to navigate through sub-menus depending on the specific network interface.
  3. Choose Data Bundle: You’ll likely see a list of available data loan packages with different data allowances and service charges. Select the one that best suits your needs.
  4. Confirm Transaction: Confirm your selection to borrow the chosen data bundle. You’ll typically receive a confirmation message once successful.

Why can’t I borrow data from Airtel?

There could be a few reasons why you can’t borrow data from Airtel. Here are some of the most common:

Eligibility Requirements Not Met:

  • Prepaid Customer: Borrowing data is typically only available for prepaid Airtel customers, not postpaid.
  • Active SIM Registration: Your Airtel SIM card must be registered with your National Identification Number (NIN).
  • Minimum Recharge History: You might need a history of recharging your Airtel line with a minimum amount or frequency (details not officially confirmed by Airtel).
  • No Outstanding Loans: You shouldn’t have any pending airtime or data loan balances on your Airtel number.

Technical Issues:

  • New USSD Code Confusion: As of May 2024, the old code *500# is no longer valid. Try using the new universal code *303# for borrowing services.
  • Network Issues: Occasionally, temporary network issues might prevent the USSD service from working correctly.

Other Possibilities:

  • Airtel Policy Changes: Airtel’s policies and eligibility criteria for borrowing data can change. It’s always best to check their website or app for the latest information.
  • Account-Specific Issues: In rare cases, there might be issues specific to your account that prevent borrowing data. Contacting Airtel customer care can help clarify the situation.

Popup NG Conclusion On How To Borrow Data From Airtel

Thanks for reading this guide on how to borrow data from Airtel! We hope this information helps you stay connected when your data runs low.

Airtel’s Data Credit Loan Service offers instant data access, eliminates the need for immediate recharge, and provides flexible data bundle options. However, remember to borrow responsibly! Service charges apply, and the borrowed amount is deducted from your next recharge.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments section below.

We encourage you to share this guide with friends and family who use Airtel. If anyone you know encounters difficulties borrowing data, this guide can be a helpful resource.

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