Quick Answer
Last Verified: July 2026
The official TFG Airtime USSD code for TFG Connect users is *135#.
Dialing *135# from your active TFG Connect SIM opens the primary self-service menu, which allows you to purchase airtime and data using your TFG Money account, check balances, request Airtime in Advance, convert airtime to data, and transfer airtime to other TFG Connect numbers. If you are redeeming a 1Voucher to load airtime, dial *130*3621*3*PIN#.
What the Service Is and Who Can Use It
The TFG USSD service provides self-service features for TFG Connect SIM card holders and active TFG Money Account holders.
- Who Can Access It: Anyone using an active TFG Connect SIM card inserted into a mobile phone.
- TFG Money Account Holders: If your TFG Money account is up to date and has available credit, you can charge airtime and data directly to your store credit account through the USSD menu.
- Network Scope: The
*135#menu is exclusive to the TFG Connect network. Standard MTN airtime/data vouchers will not work on TFG Connect SIMs, even though the service operates on network infrastructure. - Exclusions: Non-TFG network SIMs (Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Telkom) cannot dial
*135#to buy TFG products directly unless using external banking apps or official digital channels.
How to Access the Service
Before You Start
- Insert your TFG Connect SIM into your handset (must be RICA-registered).
- Ensure you have signal coverage on your mobile device.
- If purchasing on account, verify that your TFG Money account is active and in good standing.
Verified Step-by-Step Process
- Open your phone’s dialler keypad.
- Dial
*135#and press the call/send button. - Select your desired option from the main menu:
- Balance Check: View current airtime, data, or SMS balances.
- Recharge / Buy Airtime: Choose to pay via your TFG Money Account.
- Airtime in Advance: Request a quick airtime advance.
- Convert Airtime to Data: Exchange active airtime for data bundles.
- Transfer Airtime: Send airtime to another TFG Connect number.
- Follow the prompt on screen to confirm the transaction amount or recipient number.
Note for 1Voucher Users: To load a purchased 1Voucher PIN, dial
*130*3621*3*PIN#directly from your phone keypad.
Confirmation or Expected Result
Once your request is submitted, you will receive an on-screen pop-up confirmation, followed by a formal SMS transaction message.
- Successful Airtime Purchase: SMS confirming the added airtime balance or updated TFG Money account charge.
- If Charged but Unsuccessful: If your TFG Money account is billed or voucher redeemed without airtime reflecting, restart your device to refresh your network session, or contact customer support with your transaction timestamp.
Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times
| Variable | Details / Rules |
| USSD Session Fee | Free of charge when dialled from a TFG Connect SIM. |
| Monthly TFG Account Airtime Limit | Up to R500 per month when charged to a TFG Money Account. |
| Airtime in Advance Requirement | Must have recharged with at least R20 in the previous 30 days to qualify for an advance (e.g., R10 advance). |
| Processing Time | Near-instant (typically within 30 to 60 seconds). |
| Account Eligibility | Your TFG Money account must not be overdue or blocked. |
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors
- “Connection Problem or Invalid MMI Code”: Often caused by weak signal or sending input on an expired menu session. Move to a better signal area and dial
*135#again. - “Account Restricted / Purchase Declined”: Occurs if your TFG Money account is behind on payments or if you have exceeded the R500 monthly purchase limit via USSD.
- “Voucher Invalid / MTN Voucher Error”: MTN recharge PINs are incompatible with TFG Connect. You must use TFG Connect vouchers, Eezi Airtime (from Flash shops), 1Voucher, or buy via
*135#.
When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable
If the USSD route experiences a network outage or service upgrade:
- Turn airplane mode on and off to re-register on the network tower.
- Verify that your TFG SIM is in Slot 1 on dual-SIM devices.
- Switch to an official alternative channel (Bash App or Web).
Official Alternatives
When USSD is unavailable or if you prefer digital management, use these verified routes:
- Bash App / Website: Purchase TFG Connect bundles or airtime using card payments or linked TFG Money accounts on the Bash mobile app or website.
- TFG Stores: Buy physical TFG Connect vouchers at till points in any TFG retail outlet (Foschini, Markham, Sportscene, Totalsports, etc.).
- Flash Shops & 1Voucher: Purchase Eezi Airtime at any Flash spaza outlet or buy a 1Voucher at participating retailers.
- TymeBank App: Purchase TFG Connect bundles directly through the TymeBank mobile banking application.
- Customer Support Contact:
- Free Call from TFG SIM: Dial
135. - General Helpline:
0860 663 663. - WhatsApp Support:
060 016 1026. - TFG Money Account Desk:
0860 834 834.
- Free Call from TFG SIM: Dial
Safety and Privacy
- Never Share One-Time PINs (OTPs): TFG support staff or automated systems will never call or SMS asking for your account PINs, full credit card numbers, or passwords.
- Verify USSD Strings: Only enter voucher PINs into official network USSD strings (such as
*135#or*130*3621*3*PIN#). Avoid entering PINs into third-party dialler prefixes. - Lost SIM / Suspicious Activity: If your SIM card is lost or you spot suspicious account charges, report it immediately to Customer Service at
0860 663 663or the Fraud Line at0860 834 834.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current TFG Airtime USSD Code?
The main USSD menu code for TFG Connect airtime and account management is *135#. To redeem a 1Voucher for TFG Connect airtime, dial *130*3621*3*PIN#.
What tasks are available in the TFG USSD menu?
By dialling *135#, you can check account/airtime balances, buy airtime/data using your TFG Money Account, request Airtime in Advance, convert airtime to data, transfer airtime, or start a port request.
Which customers or account types can use the USSD menu?
Any customer with an active TFG Connect SIM card can access the menu. To buy airtime on credit, you must also hold an active TFG Money account in good standing.
Can I use MTN airtime vouchers on TFG Connect?
No. MTN vouchers do not work on TFG Connect SIMs. You must use TFG Connect vouchers, 1Voucher, Eezi Airtime, or buy directly via *135# or the Bash app.
What should I do if the TFG USSD route does not work?
If USSD fails, top up via the Bash app/website, purchase a voucher at a TFG store till point, or call TFG Connect customer support free at 135 from your TFG SIM.