We've all faced that frustrating moment where we have an urgent call to make, but zero airtime. Maybe you can't recharge immediately, or just need a small balance to tide you over. If you're an Airtel Nigeria user, there's good news. You can borrow airtime on Airtel instantly using the "Airtel Extra Credit" service and pay back later.
This Airtel's airtime loan service has become a lifesaver for millions of Nigerians since its introduction. It offers a smart solution whether you need to contact family in emergencies or simply stay connected between recharges. In this blog, we'll share with you exactly how to borrow airtime on Airtel in seconds and everything else you need to know about the Airtel Extra Credit feature.
Who Can Borrow Airtime from Airtel?
Before we get into the process, let us first see the eligibility criteria for borrowing credit from Airtel:
* First and foremost, you must be an active prepaid Airtel customer with a properly registered SIM card that's linked to your NIN. The service isn't available for postpaid users.
* Airtel looks at your usage history to determine eligibility. You need to have been using your Airtel line consistently for at least two months, with a minimum average monthly recharge of ₦200.
* Your repayment history is equally important. You can't have any outstanding airtime loans which means that all previous borrowings must be completely paid off before you can access new credit. Timely repayments also work in your favor, as they may increase your borrowing limit over time.
How to Borrow Airtime on Airtel Using a USSD Code?
Start by dialing *303# from your phone. When the menu pops up, tap the option for "Borrow Airtime" You'll see available loan amounts, pick what you need (₦50 to ₦3,000)Confirm your selection and within seconds, your balance will be updated.For faster borrowing without navigating menus, you can dial *303*amount# directly (e.g., *303*500# for ₦500).
How to Borrow Credit from Airtel Using My Airtel App?
Borrowing airtime on Airtel using the My Airtel app is another easy and user-friendly method available. It’s especially helpful for people who prefer apps over USSD codes and want a more visual and smooth experience. Here’s how to do it step by step:
1) Download and Install the My Airtel App and log in with Your Airtel Number
2) Navigate to the Borrow Airtime section from the app dashboard. The app will automatically check if you're eligible to borrow airtime and display the amount you can borrow.Choose the amount of airtime you’d like to borrow. You’ll also see the service fee that will be deducted when you repay.
3) Tap the confirm button, and within seconds, the borrowed airtime will be credited to your account. You’ll also receive an SMS notification confirming the transaction.
Things to Remember When You Borrow Credit from Airtel
* Whenever you borrow airtime using Airtel’s Extra Credit service, Airtel deducts a 15% service charge from the borrowed amount. For example, if you borrow ₦100, you’ll only receive ₦85 as usable airtime.
* The borrowed amount, along with the service fee, is automatically deducted from your next recharge. So, if you recharge ₦500 and had borrowed ₦100 earlier, Airtel will deduct ₦115 (₦100 + ₦15 service fee) instantly, and you’ll have ₦385 left.
* The amount you can borrow depends on your usage history. Airtel may allow you to borrow ₦50, ₦100, ₦200, ₦500, or more depending on how regularly you recharge and use your line.
You must repay any existing loan before borrowing another amount. The app or USSD system won’t approve a new loan if your previous one is unpaid.
FAQs
1. Can I borrow airtime from Airtel?
Yes! Airtel offers an Extra Credit service for eligible prepaid users. You can borrow between ₦50 to ₦3,000, depending on your usage history and repayment record.
2. How can I borrow more airtime from Airtel?
Your borrowing limit on Airtel increases based on:
Consistent recharges (minimum ₦200 monthly average)Timely repayments (no pending loans)Longer account history (3+ months preferred)
3. What is the code to borrow airtime from Airtel?
The official USSD code is *303#.
4. Why can’t I borrow credit from Airtel?
Several factors could prevent you from borrowing airtime.. If your SIM card is relatively new, you'll need to wait until it's been active for at least two months. Users who don't maintain sufficient usage may also find themselves ineligible. Another common barrier is having an existing unpaid loan.
5. Can I call other networks with borrowed airtime?
Yes, you can. The airtime you borrow functions exactly like regular credit.
6. Can I make international calls with borrowed airtime?
Yes, you definitely can.
7. Can I use borrowed airtime to browse the internet?
Yes, borrowed airtime can absolutely be used for internet access.
Conclusion:
Borrowing airtime from Airtel is a quick and reliable solution when you're in a tight spot. Whether you prefer USSD or the Airtel app, getting extra credit is just a few taps away.
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