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• Muna Tengi
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How To Borrow Airtime And Data On Airtel

Borrowing airtime or data on Airtel can be a lifesaver when you're in need and don’t have access to recharge or data purchase options immediately. Airtel offers a service called Airtel Credit Loan (commonly known as Airtel Extra Credit) that allows users to borrow both airtime and data, which is deducted from your next recharge. This service is convenient and quick, especially when you’re in an emergency.

Here's a comprehensive guide on how you can borrow airtime and data from Airtel.

Eligibility Criteria for Airtel Borrowing Service

Before diving into how to borrow airtime or data, it's essential to understand the criteria for using this service:

1. Active SIM for at least 3 months: Your Airtel SIM card must have been in use for at least 90 days.

2. Recharge History: You must have a consistent recharge history, though the minimum amount may vary depending on your region.

3. Debt-Free: You must repay any previously borrowed airtime or data before borrowing again.

How to Borrow Airtime on Airtel

If you run out of airtime and need a quick loan, here are the steps to borrow airtime:

Using USSD Code:

1. Dial *303# on your phone.

2. A menu will appear showing different loan amounts you can borrow based on your eligibility.

3. Choose the amount of airtime you need (the available amounts will depend on your recharge history and usage pattern).

4. Confirm the loan request.

Once you confirm, you’ll instantly receive the requested airtime, and an SMS will be sent to notify you of the transaction. The borrowed amount will be deducted from your next recharge along with a service fee (usually between 10%-15%).

How to Borrow Data on Airtel

Borrowing data is equally straightforward and follows a similar process:

Using USSD Code:

1. Dial *303# and select the option for data (which will be labeled "Borrow Data" or "Extra Data").

2. A list of available data loan options will be shown, each with its data size and price.

3. Choose the data bundle that best suits your immediate needs.

4. Confirm the request to receive the data.

Just like with airtime, you will receive a confirmation SMS once the data is credited to your account. The cost will be deducted during your next recharge, along with any applicable service fee.

Service Fees and Repayment

When borrowing airtime or data from Airtel, it's essential to be aware of the associated service fee, which typically ranges from 10%-15% of the borrowed amount. For instance, if you borrow ₦100 of airtime, you may receive ₦85 or ₦90, with the remainder covering the service fee. This fee structure also applies to data borrowing.

Upon your next recharge, Airtel automatically deducts the borrowed amount and the service fee from your balance. For example, if you borrowed ₦100 and recharge ₦200, Airtel will automatically deduct ₦115 (assuming a 15% fee), leaving you with ₦85 as your usable balance.

Alternative Ways to Borrow Airtime/Data

If the above USSD method doesn’t work for you, there are a few other ways you can access the borrowing service:

1. Airtel Mobile App: If you have the Airtel Thanks App, you can use it to borrow airtime or data. Simply open the app, go to the "Services" or "Loan" section, and follow the prompts.

2. Customer Service: In some cases, you can reach out to Airtel’s customer service by dialing 111 or visiting an Airtel store for assistance with borrowing airtime or data.

Benefits of Airtel Extra Credit Service

• Convenience: You can borrow airtime or data anytime, even when you're out of cash or can’t get to a recharge outlet.

• Quick and Easy: The process is fast, with no waiting time. It provides instant relief during emergencies.

• Flexible Repayment: The borrowed airtime or data is deducted from your next recharge, so you don't have to worry about making separate payments.

Key Points to Remember

• Airtel charges a service fee for every airtime or data loan, usually ranging between 10%-15%.

• You can only borrow airtime or data if you have no outstanding loans with Airtel.

• The loan repayment happens automatically with your next recharge.

Conclusion

Airtel’s borrowing service is a lifesaver for many users, offering quick access to airtime and data when you're short on balance. By dialing *303#, you can quickly borrow what you need and repay it with your next recharge. The process is simple, user-friendly, and designed to help you stay connected at all times.