How to Borrow Airtime and Data from Airtel in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Running out of airtime or data when you need it most can be frustrating. Thankfully, Airtel offers a convenient service called Airtel Credit Loan (Extra Credit) that allows you to borrow airtime and data and pay it back later. Whether you’re stranded, low on balance, or urgently need to renew a subscription, this guide will walk you through how to use the service correctly, eligibility requirements, and how to repay what you borrowed.
Eligibility for Airtel Credit Loan
Before you can borrow airtime or data from Airtel, you must meet certain criteria:
- Active Airtel SIM: You must have been using your line for at least 3 months.
- Frequent Recharge History: You should recharge frequently (usually N200 or more monthly).
- Low or No Balance: You must have less than N100 in your account.
- No Outstanding Loan: If you already owe, you must repay it before borrowing again.
How to Borrow Airtime from Airtel
Follow these simple steps:
- Dial the USSD Code
• Dial *303# on your Airtel line.
• Select option 2 to borrow airtime.
- Choose the Amount
• You will see options like N50, N100, N200, N500, or N1000 depending on your eligibility.
• Select the amount you wish to borrow.
- Confirmation
• A confirmation message will be displayed.
• Once you accept, the airtime will be credited to your main balance (minus a service fee of 15%).
Example: Borrow N100, receive N85 (N15 service charge).
How to Borrow Data from Airtel
Borrowing data follows a similar process:
- Dial *500#
• Select option 3 for a data loan. - Choose a Data Plan
• Available options vary, such as 40MB, 100MB, 200MB, or 1GB.
• Each comes with a small fee and validity (e.g., 1 day, 2 days).
- Confirm Your Request
• You’ll receive a message once the data is activated.
How to Repay Airtel Loan
Repayment is automatic. The next time you recharge, Airtel deducts the loan and service fee first before crediting the remaining balance to your phone.
Note: If you recharge N500 and owe N100, Airtel takes N100 and leaves you with N400.
Important Tips
- Service Fee: Always consider the 15% fee before borrowing.
- Repay Quickly: Failure to repay quickly may prevent you from borrowing again.
- Check Loan Balance: Dial *303#, then select “Repay Credit” to check how much you owe.
Common Issues & Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Not eligible to borrow | Recharge more frequently and ensure your SIM is older than 3 months |
| Airtel says you owe when you don’t | Contact Airtel customer care on 111 or via social media |
| Airtime deducted after recharge | It’s likely loan repayment. Check loan history via *303# |
Conclusion
Airtel’s airtime and data loan service is a helpful backup in urgent situations. By understanding how it works and how to use it responsibly, you can avoid unnecessary service restrictions and enjoy uninterrupted communication. Always ensure you repay your loan on time to keep the service available when you need it next.
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