Have you ever subscribed to an MTN data or call plan, only to wake up one day and realize your airtime just vanished? That’s auto renewal at work! MTN automatically renews your subscription once it expires, as long as you have enough credit. While this is great if you always want to stay connected, it can be frustrating when you don’t need the plan anymore.

Luckily, stopping MTN auto renewal is simple. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the easiest methods to cancel it—whether you prefer using USSD codes, SMS, or talking to a customer care representative. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to do to take control of your MTN subscriptions.

Method 1: Cancel Auto Renewal Using USSD Code (The Fastest Way)

The easiest and fastest way to cancel auto renewal is through USSD codes. Here’s how:

1. Dial *312# – This is the main MTN menu for managing services.
2. Select the option for “Data Plans” or “Bundles” – Depending on your subscription type, you’ll see a list of available plans.
3. Look for “Manage Auto Renewal” – Scroll through the options and select it.
4. Choose “Cancel Auto Renewal” – MTN will confirm that auto renewal has been turned off.
5. Receive a Confirmation Message – You’ll get an SMS from MTN confirming that auto renewal has been deactivated.

Why This Method Works:

• It’s fast (takes less than a minute).
• You don’t need internet access.
• You get instant confirmation.

Method 2: Cancel Auto Renewal via SMS (Great for Those Who Prefer Texting)

If you’d rather send a text message, follow these steps:

1. Open your messaging app.
2. Type “STOP” (without quotes).
3. Send the message to 131.
4. Wait for a confirmation SMS from MTN.

That’s it! MTN will send you a message confirming that auto renewal has been canceled.

Why This Method Works:

• No need to memorize USSD codes.
• Works even if your phone menu is slow or unresponsive.
• Provides clear confirmation via text message.

Method 3: Call MTN Customer Care (If You Need Extra Help)

If for some reason the above methods don’t work, you can always talk to a real person at MTN customer service. Here’s how:

1. Dial 300 on your MTN line.
2. Follow the voice prompts to speak to a customer care representative.
3. Tell them you want to cancel auto renewal.
4. They may ask for your details to verify your identity.
5. Wait for confirmation via SMS once they disable auto renewal.

Why This Method Works:

• Ideal if the USSD and SMS methods don’t work.
• Useful if you have multiple subscriptions and need clarification.
• You get direct assistance from MTN staff.

How to Check If Auto Renewal Is Off

After canceling, you might wonder: “Did it actually work?” To be sure, you can check your subscription status:

If auto renewal is still active, try canceling again or call customer care for help.

Pro Tips to Avoid Auto Renewal Issues

Here are some extra tips to make sure you don’t run into auto renewal problems in the future:

1. Always Read Subscription Messages – Before subscribing, check if auto renewal is enabled.
2. Opt-Out Immediately After Subscribing – If you don’t want renewal, disable it right away.
3. Keep Track of Your Active Subscriptions – Regularly check your status using the USSD or SMS methods.
4. Use MTN’s Self-Service Portal – If you have internet access, visit myMTN app to manage subscriptions.

FAQs About Stopping MTN Auto Renewal

1. Will canceling auto-renewal delete my remaining data or minutes?

No. Canceling auto renewal only stops automatic renewal—it won’t delete your remaining balance.

2. Can I turn auto-renewal back on after canceling it?

Yes. If you change your mind, just subscribe to a plan again and choose the “Auto Renew” option.

3. Does canceling auto-renewal work if I have no airtime?

Yes. Even if you have zero credit, you can still cancel auto renewal to stop future deductions.

4. How do I stop auto-renewal for a specific subscription?

Follow the same cancellation steps for each individual plan you want to remove from auto renewal.

5. Will I be charged for canceling auto renewal?

No. Stopping auto renewal is completely free.

Auto renewal can be convenient, but it’s frustrating when it eats up your airtime unexpectedly. Thankfully, stopping it on MTN is easy—whether through USSD, SMS, or customer service. Now that you know the steps, you have full control over your MTN subscriptions. No more surprise deductions!

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