Ever been stuck without data, trying to check your airtime, or needing to buy a bundle ASAP? That’s where USSD codes come in—they’re like secret cheat codes for your phone that let you get things done in seconds, no app or internet needed!
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) might sound fancy, but it’s really just a simple way to talk to your mobile network using short number combos with * and #. Need to check your balance? There’s a code for that. Want to send a “Please Call Me” when you’re out of airtime? Yep, there’s a code for that too.
Even with mobile apps and online banking making recharges easier, USSD codes are still a lifesaver—especially when your internet is down or you’re in a hurry. Whether you’re on Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, or Cell C, knowing the right codes can save you time, money, and stress.
Below, we’ve gathered the must-know USSD codes for South Africa’s biggest mobile networks, so you’ll always be in control of your airtime, data, and more!
MTN South Africa USSD Codes (Short Codes)
| MTN South Africa USSD Codes | Description |
|---|---|
| *136# | Airtime balance summary |
| *136*0# | Master USSD Menu |
| *135*5# | Check WASP subscriptions |
| *#06# | View your device IMEI |
| *123*888# | View your MSISDN |
| *121*number# | Please Call Me |
| *136*1# | Detailed balances |
| *136*2# | Buy data, voice, or SMS bundles |
| *136*3# | Buy or send airtime to another user |
| *136*4# | Change Tariff |
| *136*5# | Check your account details |
| *136*10# | Recharge balance with bank card |
| *135# | International roaming, voicemail, SIM swap, RICA SIM card |
| *141*voucher number*cellphone number to be charged | Recharge another prepaid number using a voucher |
| *127*number# | Request reverse-charged call |
| *155# | Check digital subscriptions |
| *136*5*6622# | Out-of-bundle barring |
| *136*5*7852# | Usage limit management |
Vodacom USSD Codes (Short Codes)
| Vodacom USSD Codes | Description |
|---|---|
| *100# | Airtime balance summary |
| *135# | Master USSD menu |
| *120# | Check WASP subscriptions |
| *#06# | View your device IMEI |
| *111*501# | View your MSISDN |
| *136*01*Recharge voucher PIN# | Recharge Prepaid Airtime |
| *140#number# | Please Call Me |
| *140*02*MSISDN# | Request airtime from another user |
| *135# | Send airtime to another user |
| *135# | Change Tariff |
| *135*082# | Airtime Advance |
Cell C USSD Codes (Short Codes)
| Cell C USSD Codes | Description |
|---|---|
| *101# | Airtime balance |
| *147# | Master USSD menu |
| *133*1# | Check WASP subscriptions |
| *#06# | View your device IMEI |
| *147*100# | View your device MSISDN |
| *102*Recharge voucher PIN# | Recharge Prepaid Airtime |
| *111*recipient cellphone number# | Please Call Me |
| *147*01*cellphone number of other useramount# | Request airtime from another user |
| *147*333*cellphone number to be recharged# | Send airtime to another user |
| *147*8# | Change Tariff |
Telkom USSD Codes (Short Codes)
| Telkom USSD Codes | Description |
|---|---|
| *188# | Airtime balance summary |
| *180# | Master USSD menu |
| *#06# | View your device IMEI |
| *1# | View your device MSISDN |
| *188*Recharge voucher PIN# | Recharge Prepaid Airtime |
| *140*number# | Please Call Me |
| *180# | Request airtime from another user |
| *180# | Send airtime to another user |
| *180# | Change Tariff |
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