Quick Answer
The main Vodacom USSD code for checking your data balance is *135#. Dialing *135# opens the primary Vodacom self-service menu where you can view a summary of your active data bundles, airtime, and promotional balances. For a direct, detailed breakdown of all individual data bundles, dial *135*502#. Prepaid users can also dial *136# for a rapid summary display on screen.
- Primary USSD Code:
*135# - Detailed Balance Shortcut:
*135*502# - Quick Prepaid Summary:
*136# - Last Verified Date: July 2026
Note: USSD balance checks require an active connection to the Vodacom network (cellular signal), but they do not consume mobile data or require an active internet connection.
What the Service Is and Who Can Use It
Vodacom’s Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) balance service is a zero-rated, text-based tool built into the mobile GSM network. It lets active subscribers query remaining mobile data allocations instantly without logging into an online portal or using active internet data.
Eligible Account Types
- Prepaid Subscribers: Full access to standard menu options (
*135#) and quick summaries (*136#). - Top Up / Hybrid Subscribers: Full access to
*135#and detailed balance checks. - Contract (Postpaid) Subscribers: Access to
*135#and direct contract summary shortcuts (*135*502#).
Prerequisites & Exclusions
To use the service, your SIM card must be active on the Vodacom South Africa network and inserted into a device capable of making network calls or running USSD string prompts. USSD codes cannot be dialed directly from data-only Wi-Fi routers, dongles, or tablets without a dialing keypad unless managed through an external app or secondary smartphone.
How to Check the Data Balance
Before You Start
- Ensure your mobile device displays at least 1 bar of Vodacom network signal.
- If you use a dual-SIM smartphone, confirm that your phone’s default calling SIM is set to your Vodacom SIM line.
- Turn off Airplane Mode if it was active.
Verified Step-by-Step Process
- Open the Phone App: Launch the native dialer or keypad application on your handset.
- Dial the Code: Enter
*135#(or*135*502#for direct bundle details). - Press Call: Tap the green Call/Send button on your device.
- Navigate the Menu (if using
*135#):- A pop-up menu will appear on your screen.
- Type the reply option corresponding to Balances or My Account and tap Send.
- View Your Summary: Your active data bundle balance will display on the screen or arrive via an instant notification SMS.
Confirmation or Expected Result
When successfully processed, your screen or notification drawer will show:
- Active Data Totals: Remaining megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB).
- Bundle Category Breakdowns: Individual totals for Anytime Data, Night Owl Data (12 AM–5 AM), Social Bundles, or Video Pass units.
- Expiration Details: Expiry dates and times for each active bundle.
If your request times out due to a temporary signal drop, re-dial the code or wait 30 seconds before submitting a new query.
Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times
| Feature | Details |
| Service Fee | Free (Zero-rated USSD session; no airtime or data balance deducted) |
| Daily Request Limit | Unlimited reasonable queries per day |
| Processing Time | Instant (typically 2 to 5 seconds depending on network load) |
| Network Requirement | GSM 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G signal required (Internet data connection not required) |
| Data Types Monitored | Anytime, Night Owl, Recurring Monthly, Daily/Weekly, Just4You, and Rollover Data |
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors
- “Connection Problem or Invalid MMI Code”: This error usually indicates temporary network congestion, a faint signal, or an incorrect SIM choice on a dual-SIM device. Toggle Airplane Mode on and off, ensure the Vodacom SIM slot is selected, and re-dial.
- “USSD Session Timed Out”: USSD sessions automatically close after 10–15 seconds of inactivity. Dial
*135*502#to bypass interactive menu steps and load detailed balances immediately. - SIM in a Router, MiFi, or Tablet: Dongles and routers cannot process interactive USSD pop-ups. Temporarily move the SIM to a cellphone to dial
*135#, or check usage via the web portal.
When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable
During scheduled network maintenance or service outages, USSD requests may fail or display temporary placeholder messages. If USSD is unavailable, use official online or app-based balance methods described below.
Official Alternatives
When USSD menus are down, or if you prefer a graphical interface showing real-time usage graphs, Vodacom offers several free official channels:
- VodaPay Mobile App: Download the official VodaPay app on Android or iOS. Log in to view live real-time balances for airtime, data, and active voice/SMS packages directly on the home dashboard.
- WhatsApp Self-Service Assistant (TOBi): Add Vodacom’s verified TOBi assistant on WhatsApp at 082 009 8624and send the message
"Balance". - My Vodacom Online Web Portal: Visit the official website at vodacom.co.za, log into your account profile, and view your Account Summary.
- Customer Care: Call 135 toll-free from your Vodacom line for automated interactive voice response (IVR) balance assistance.
Safety and Privacy
- Keep Credentials Private: Official USSD balance checks (
*135#or*136#) will never ask you to enter your SIM PIN, secret passwords, banking PINs, or One-Time PINs (OTPs). - Avoid Unverified Third-Party Dialers: Do not dial unknown extended USSD strings provided by unsolicited text messages or non-official channels.
- Scam Warning: If a menu prompt requests sensitive account details or prompts an unexpected airtime transfer during a balance check, terminate the session immediately by hanging up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current Vodacom USSD Code For Data Balance?
The main USSD code is *135#. You can select the balance option from the main menu or dial *135*502# directly to display a detailed breakdown of all active data bundles.
Which bundles are shown in the USSD balance response?
The USSD balance summary displays active Anytime data, Night Owl data, promotional bundles (such as Just4You deals), social media bundles, and video or streaming passes.
Does the result include expiry dates?
Yes. The detailed balance response (via *135*502# or the detailed menu option) lists remaining megabytes/gigabytes along with the specific expiry date for each active allocation.
Why can app and USSD balances differ?
USSD queries show instant live network allocations. The VodaPay app or web portal may occasionally lag by a few minutes if your device’s data connection is slow or background app sync hasn’t refreshed.
What should I do if the Vodacom USSD route does not work?
If USSD fails due to network issues or handset restrictions, check your balance using the VodaPay App, chat with TOBi on WhatsApp (082 009 8624), log in to the My Vodacom portal, or call 135.
Related Guides & Internal Links
- Learn more about account management on the central Vodacom network hub.
- Need to review total airtime? Check out the Vodacom Balance Check USSD Code guide.
- Need more data or airtime? See the Vodacom Recharge USSD Code step-by-step walkthrough.
- Want to send data to a friend? Follow the Vodacom Data Transfer USSD Code guide.
- Forgot your MSISDN? Use the USSD Code To Check Vodacom Number guide.
- Compare shortcuts across cellular providers on the Mobile Network USSD Codes overview page.
