Telkom Data Balance Check USSD Code

Last verified: July 2026

Quick Answer

To check your remaining Telkom mobile data or bundle usage via USSD in South Africa, dial *188# or dial *180# from your Telkom mobile device:

• Direct Balance Check: Dial *188# to instantly trigger a pop-up display or SMS breakdown showing your active data balances (including Anytime and Night Surfer data) and airtime credit.
• Master Self-Service Menu: Dial *180# and follow the on-screen options for balance queries, bundle management, and usage limits.

Note: USSD requests are free when dialled directly from an active Telkom SIM card.

What the Service Is and Who Can Use It

The Telkom Data Balance Check USSD service is a self-service feature designed to display real-time network allowance metrics without needing an active internet connection.

• Supported Account Types: Prepaid, TopUp (Hybrid), and Postpaid/Contract Telkom Mobile SIM cards.
• Requirements: A handset connected directly to the Telkom Mobile cellular network (with active signal bars) containing a valid Telkom SIM card.
• Exclusions: This service cannot be accessed using another operator’s SIM card (e.g., Vodacom, MTN, or Cell C). Data-only devices, routers, or tablets without phone dialler support must use alternative methods like the MyTelkom App or Web Portal.

How to Check the Data Balance

Before You Start

1. Ensure your Telkom SIM card is inserted into SIM Slot 1 (if using a dual-SIM phone) or selected as your primary line for voice calls.
2. Check that your device has basic network reception (2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G signal).

Verified Step-by-Step Process

Method 1: Direct USSD Code (*188#)

1. Open the phone app dialler on your mobile device.
2. Key in *188#.
3. Press the Call / Send button.
4. Wait a few seconds for the USSD prompt or response SMS.

Method 2: Self-Service Menu (*180#)

1. Open your device dialler and dial *180#.
2. Select the option for Balances or Check Usage by entering the corresponding number.
3. View the current data category breakdowns directly on your screen.

Confirmation or Expected Result

When the USSD request completes successfully, your screen will show a summary (or you will receive an SMS) containing:

• Anytime Data Balance: Standard data available for general usage during peak/off-peak hours.
• Night Surfer / Night Owl Data: Midnight-to-morning bundle allocation (typically valid between 00:00 and 07:00).
• Promotional / Social / Mo’Nice Balances: Dedicated allocations for specific apps or promotional deals.
• Expiry Dates: The exact date and time individual data bundles expire.

Recovery Step: If your data depletion seems inaccurate or a recently purchased bundle does not appear immediately, restart your handset or turn Airplane mode on and off to refresh the active network session.

Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors

• “Connection problem or invalid MMI code”: Re-enter *188# without spaces. Verify that the Telkom SIM is designated for dialing on dual-SIM phones. Toggle Airplane Mode or restart the phone.
• “Session Timed Out”: USSD sessions automatically close after extended inactivity. Re-dial *188# and execute choices promptly.
• No Balance Returned: Network congestion during peak times can delay response messages. Wait a few minutes and dial again.

When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable

• SIM in a Router or MiFi: Routers usually do not support interactive USSD dialing. Remove the SIM and insert it into a smartphone, or log in to your router’s administration portal (e.g., 192.168.8.1) to check inbox messages or dial USSD commands.
• Roaming Issues: If your phone displays “Telkom – R”, you may be roaming on a partner network. Dial *180# to verify whether your current bundle permits roaming data.

Official Alternatives

When USSD menu services are down or unavailable, Telkom provides several official self-service routes:

1. MyTelkom Mobile App: Download the official MyTelkom App (iOS / Android / Huawei AppGallery) to monitor live data charts, bundle validity, and usage history.
2. WhatsApp Self-Service: Send a WhatsApp message with “Balance” to Telkom’s official line at 081 160 1700.
3. Web Portal: Log into the official portal at telkom.co.za to view account breakdowns.
4. Telkom Support Call Center: Contact customer care by calling 180 from a Telkom SIM or 081 180 from any network.

Safety and Privacy

• Never Share Sensitive Data: Telkom self-service USSD codes will never ask for your SIM PIN, banking PIN, internet passwords, or OTPs (One-Time PINs).
• Beware of Scams: Only use verified USSD shortcodes (*188#, *180#, *1#). Do not follow unverified third-party instructions asking you to dial complex numbers with embedded passwords or PINs.
• Lost or Stolen SIMs: Contact Telkom Customer Support immediately at 081 180 to block your SIM card if your phone is compromised.

Internal Links

• Telkom — Return to the primary Telkom overview hub.
• Telkom Balance Check USSD Code — Check overall airtime and core account balances.
• Telkom Recharge USSD Code — Learn how to load airtime or data vouchers via USSD.
• Telkom Data Transfer USSD Code — Instructions on transferring data allowances to other Telkom numbers.
• Telkom Internet Settings USSD Code — Configure APN and mobile data settings.
• Mobile Network USSD Codes — View shortcode guides for Vodacom, MTN, and Cell C.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current Telkom Data Balance Check USSD Code?

The direct code to check your Telkom data balance is *188#. You can also access data usage and buy additional bundles through the main self-service menu by dialing *180#.

Which bundles are shown in the balance response?

The response displays active Anytime Data, Night Surfer Data, Mo’Nice promotional allocations, and social or app-specific bundle balances linked to your phone number.

Does the USSD result include expiry dates?

Yes. Detailed balance alerts generally output both the remaining megabytes/gigabytes and the specific expiration dates for active allocations.

Why can app and USSD balances differ?

The MyTelkom App reads real-time server balances, while USSD data summaries may occasionally experience slight delays during continuous active data sessions. Disconnect active mobile data briefly to sync billing counters.

What should I do if the Telkom USSD route does not work?

If USSD dialing fails due to network maintenance or signal issues, check your balances via WhatsApp (081 160 1700), log in to the MyTelkom App, or sign in to the web portal at telkom.co.za.