MTN is one of the largest telecommunications networks in Nigeria and Africa, offering millions of subscribers various services, including calls, SMS, data bundles, and more. One of the most convenient features MTN provides is the ability to gift airtime to friends and family. If you’ve ever wondered how to share or transfer airtime with someone on the MTN network, this comprehensive guide will walk you through all the methods and processes involved.
Whether you want to surprise a loved one, help out a friend, or share some of your extra airtime balance, gifting airtime on MTN is fast, simple, and efficient. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including:
- How to gift airtime on MTN using USSD codes
- How to use MTN Share (formerly MTN Me2U)
- How to transfer airtime using the MTN mobile app
- Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about MTN airtime gifting.
By the end of this guide, you will be able to transfer airtime effortlessly to any MTN number.
1. What is MTN Share?
Before diving into the steps, it is essential to understand what MTN Share is and how it works. MTN Share, formerly known as MTN Me2U, is a service that allows MTN subscribers to send or gift airtime from their balance to another MTN user. This service is free of charge and works seamlessly as long as you have sufficient airtime.
Key highlights of MTN Share include:
- It works only between MTN-to-MTN numbers.
- You need to change your default transfer PIN before you can use the service.
- You can transfer airtime in amounts ranging from N50 to N5,000 per transaction.
- Daily limits apply; you can transfer up to N10,000 per day.
Now that you understand the basics, let’s move on to the various methods for gifting airtime on MT
2. How to Gift Airtime on MTN Using USSD Codes
The easiest and most popular way to gift airtime on MTN is by using USSD codes. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Change Your Default Transfer PIN
To use MTN Share, you must first change the default transfer PIN (usually set to 0000). Here’s how:
- Dial
*321*default PIN*new PIN*new PIN#
.- For example, if you want to change your PIN to 1234, dial
*321*0000*1234*1234#
.
- For example, if you want to change your PIN to 1234, dial
- You will receive a notification confirming that your PIN has been successfully changed.
Important: Choose a PIN that is easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess.
Step 2: Transfer Airtime to Another MTN Number
Once your transfer PIN is set, you can gift airtime to any MTN subscriber. Here’s how:
- Dial
*321*Recipient’s Number*Amount*PIN#
.- For example, to transfer N200 to 08031234567 with a PIN of 1234, dial
*321*08031234567*200*1234#
.
- For example, to transfer N200 to 08031234567 with a PIN of 1234, dial
- You will receive a confirmation message indicating the success of the transaction.
Step 3: Confirm the Transfer
- After the transfer is completed, both you and the recipient will receive SMS notifications.
- Double-check your airtime balance by dialing
*310#
to ensure the correct amount was deducted.
That’s it! The airtime transfer is complete.
3. How to Use MTN Share (Me2U) to Gift Airtime
The MTN Share (Me2U) feature works similarly to the USSD code method but focuses specifically on sharing airtime between two MTN numbers.
Here’s how to gift airtime using MTN Share:
- Change your default transfer PIN if you haven’t already.
- Dial
*321*0000*new PIN*new PIN#
.
- Dial
- Share airtime using this format:
- Dial
*321*Recipient’s Number*Amount*PIN#
.- Example: To send N500 airtime to 08123456789 using a PIN of 1234, dial
*321*08123456789*500*1234#
.
- Example: To send N500 airtime to 08123456789 using a PIN of 1234, dial
- Dial
- You will receive an SMS confirmation, and the recipient will get the airtime instantly.
Key Things to Note About MTN Share:
- You cannot transfer airtime to users on other networks (e.g., Glo, Airtel, or 9mobile).
- Ensure you enter the recipient’s number correctly to avoid gifting airtime to the wrong person.
- You can reset your transfer PIN anytime by dialing
*321*default PIN*new PIN*new PIN#
.
4. How to Gift Airtime on MTN Using the MyMTN App
If you prefer a modern and user-friendly approach, the MyMTN App is the perfect tool for gifting airtime. The app is available for download on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Steps to Gift Airtime Using MyMTN App:
- Download and Install the MyMTN App:
- Search for “MyMTN App” on your app store and install it.
- Log In to Your Account:
- Launch the app and log in using your MTN phone number.
- Navigate to the Airtime Transfer Section:
- On the home screen, look for the “Share Airtime” or “MTN Share” option.
- Enter Transfer Details:
- Input the recipient’s phone number, the amount you want to send, and your transfer PIN.
- Confirm the Transaction:
- Review the details and confirm the transfer.
- You and the recipient will receive SMS notifications for successful transfers.
The MyMTN App makes gifting airtime more seamless and efficient. Plus, it offers additional features like data gifting, balance checks, and tariff plan management.
5. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Gifting Airtime on MTN
Q1: Is there a charge for gifting airtime on MTN?
No, MTN does not charge any fee for airtime transfers using MTN Share.
Q2: What is the minimum and maximum amount I can transfer?
- The minimum amount per transfer is N50.
- The maximum amount per transaction is N5,000.
- You can transfer up to N10,000 per day.
Q3: Can I transfer airtime to other networks like Airtel or Glo?
No, MTN Share only works for MTN-to-MTN airtime transfers.
Q4: What happens if I send airtime to the wrong number?
Unfortunately, airtime transfers are non-reversible. Always double-check the recipient’s number before confirming the transaction.
Q5: Can I reset my transfer PIN if I forget it?
Yes, you can reset your PIN by contacting MTN customer care or visiting an MTN service center.
Q6: How do I check my MTN airtime balance after a transfer?
Dial *310#
to check your airtime balance instantly
6. Tips for Gifting Airtime on MTN
Here are a few tips to make your airtime gifting experience smooth and hassle-free:
- Always ensure you have sufficient airtime before initiating a transfer.
- Change your default PIN to a secure and memorable number immediately.
- Use the MyMTN App for a more convenient and visual way to send airtime.
- Confirm the recipient’s number to avoid accidental transfers.
- Keep track of your daily transfer limit to avoid errors.
7. Why Gifting Airtime on MTN is Beneficial
Gifting airtime on MTN comes with numerous advantages, such as:
- Convenience: You can transfer airtime anytime, anywhere, without visiting a physical store.
- Helping Others: It allows you to support friends, family, or colleagues when they run out of airtime.
- Emergency Situations: Airtime sharing can be a lifesaver when someone urgently needs to make a call.
- No Extra Charges: The service is free of cost, making it a budget-friendly option for sharing airtime.
Whether you’re gifting airtime to help someone stay connected or simply sharing as a gesture of goodwill, MTN makes the process straightforward and accessible to everyone.
Conclusion
Gifting airtime on MTN is an incredibly useful feature that allows you to share your airtime balance with other MTN subscribers effortlessly. Whether you use the USSD code, MTN Share (Me2U), or the MyMTN App, the process is fast, simple, and free.
To summarize the steps:
- Change your default transfer PIN using
*321*default PIN*new PIN*new PIN#
. - Gift airtime using
*321*Recipient’s Number*Amount*PIN#
. - Use the MyMTN App for a more user-friendly experience.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can now transfer airtime like a pro and keep your friends and family connected on the MTN network.
Have you tried gifting airtime on MTN? Share your experience in the comments below!