how to share airtime on mtn

How to Share Airtime on MTN Using Code, SMS, or App (2025 Guide)

5 hours ago

In Nigeria, airtime sharing is more than just a mobile feature, it's a lifeline. From helping family members stay connected during emergencies, to quickly bailing out a friend who's run out of data mid-Instagram reels or facebook chats, we've all had those moments where every second counts. That's where MTN's share and sell service comes in to save the day.

In this guide, you'll learn exactly how to share airtime on MTN step-by-step without any stress or guesswork. We'll walk you through all the updated airtime sharing methods available in 2025:

The updated USSD code that works on any phone (even that small torchlight Nokia in your drawer)
The SMS method for those who prefer typing over dialing
The MyMTN App option for real-time transfers with a few taps

Plus, we'll share pro tips to avoid failed transactions, PIN issues, and network wahala. So, let's get you started on how to send airtime like a pro.

What Is MTN Share & Sell?

MTN Share & Sell is MTN's official airtime transfer service that lets you send airtime from your own MTN line to another MTN line instantly. Whether it's for family, friends, or that colleague who "just needs a small recharge to make one quick call," this service is your go-to way to share value.

Key Things You Need to Know:

MTN to MTN only - You can't transfer airtime to Glo, Airtel, or 9mobile lines
Works for both prepaid and postpaid MTN customers
Requires a Transfer PIN for security reasons (The default pin for transfer is 0000, but you should change it ASAP)
All transfers are final: Once sent, you can't reverse it
Limits apply: There's a maximum amount you can send per transaction and per day

If you've got your PIN ready and your balance is loaded, you're good to go.

How to Share Airtime on MTN Using USSD Code

IMPORTANT UPDATE: MTN has changed their airtime sharing code in 2025. The old *777# code no longer works. The new official code is *321#.

Method 1: Direct Dial (Quick Transfer)

New 2025 Code:

*321*RecipientNumber*Amount*PIN#

Example:

*321*08030000000*100*1234#

You'll get an instant confirmation message.
Your recipient should receive the airtime immediately the confirmation message comes in.

Tip: If you're still using the default PIN 0000, change it first (see our PIN section below).

Method 2: Menu Navigation (Step-by-Step Prompts)

Dial *321# on your MTN line
Select Airtime Share & Sell from the menu
Enter the recipient's number, amount, and PIN when prompted
Wait for the confirmation SMS

Why Use USSD?

Works on any phone ; from smartphones to old-school torchlight phones
No internet required
Quick and straightforward

Troubleshooting USSD Transfers

"Invalid PIN": This means you need to reset your PIN before trying again
"Transfer failed": Check if you have enough airtime and if the MTN network is stable from the network bar at the top of your phone

How to Share Airtime on MTN via SMS

If you prefer typing over using USSD codes, MTN's SMS method for airtime transfer is just as effective. All you need is your phone's messaging app and no internet is required for this.

How It Works

Open your phone's SMS app
Type your message in this format: Transfer RecipientNumber Amount PIN

Example:

Transfer 08030000000 100 1234

Send the SMS to 777
You'll receive a confirmation SMS from MTN if the transfer is successful

Why Use SMS for Airtime Transfer?

It is perfect if you don't remember the USSD code off-hand
Works even on older phones that sometimes glitch when dialing long USSD strings
Simple and easy to remember, just type: "Transfer, number, amount, PIN"

Tips for SMS Transfers

Double check the recipient's number before sending as airtime transfers are irreversible
Make sure you type only spaces between the details (no commas or extra punctuation)
If you get an "Invalid Command" reply, confirm that your SMS matches the format exactly

How to Share Airtime Using the MyMTN App

If you're a smartphone user, the MyMTN app is the easiest and most user-friendly way to share airtime. It's perfect for people who want a visual interface and extra features beyond just transfers.

Step-by-Step: Share Airtime via MyMTN App

Download the app
- For Android devices check the Google Play Store
- For iPhones, visit Apple App Store
Sign in with your MTN number and after signing in, you'll get an OTP (One-Time Password) for verification
Navigate to: Share & Sell. Click on Airtime
Enter recipient's number, the amount you want to send, and your Transfer PIN
Tap "Send" and wait for an in-app or SMS confirmation

Why Use the MyMTN App?

You can track your transaction history easily
Check airtime and data balances without dialing codes
Buy airtime/data bundles directly in the same app
Secure login with OTP verification

Tip: If you regularly share airtime, the app can save recipient numbers so you don't have to type them every time.

How to Change or Reset Your MTN Transfer PIN

Your Transfer PIN is key to keeping your airtime safe, without it, no one can send airtime from your line. The default MTN PIN is 0000, but you should change it immediately.

How to Change Your MTN Transfer PIN (USSD):

Updated 2025 Method:

*600*DefaultPIN*NewPIN*NewPIN#

Example:

*600*0000*1234*1234#

You'll get an SMS confirming your PIN has been updated.

Forgot Your Transfer PIN?

Call MTN Customer Care by dialing 300 from your MTN line
Or visit any MTN service centre with a valid ID for assistance
Some users can also reset PIN via the MyMTN app under "Settings", then click "Transfer PIN"

Tips for a Secure Transfer PIN

Avoid using date of birth or repeated digits (like 1111), or parts of your phone number
Use a combination that is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess
Update it if you suspect someone else knows it.

MTN Airtime Transfer Limits & Conditions

Before you start sending airtime, it's important to know the rules MTN has in place for Share & Sell. This helps you avoid failed transfers or unexpected errors.

Daily & Per-Transaction Limits

Minimum transfer amount: ₦50 per transaction
Maximum per transaction: ₦5,000
Daily limit: You can transfer up to ₦50,000 total per day (across multiple transfers)

Example: You could send ₦2,000 to one person in the morning, ₦5,000 to another in the afternoon, and keep doing this until you hit the ₦50,000 daily cap.

Who Can Use Share & Sell?

Only MTN to MTN transfers are allowed
Both prepaid and postpaid customers can use the service
You must have a valid Transfer PIN set up before your first transfer

Fee Structure

As of 2025, MTN does not charge a separate service fee for airtime transfers
You will be charged only the exact amount you send, deducted from your balance

Important Rules to Remember

Transfers are irreversible . Once sent, you can't get the airtime back unless the recipient sends it back to you
You must have enough balance to cover the transfer plus any minimum required airtime left in your account
International transfers are not supported, you can't send airtime from MTN Nigeria to MTN Ghana, for example
If your SIM is newly registered, MTN may temporarily restrict transfers for security reasons

Tip: If your transfer fails and you're sure you've not hit your limit, check your PIN, network connection, and whether your line is properly registered.

Common Issues & How to Fix Them

Even though MTN Share & Sell is straightforward, a few challenges can happen along the way. Here is how to quickly solve them so you don't get stuck.

1. "Invalid PIN" Error

Cause: You entered the wrong Transfer PIN, or you haven't changed the default PIN yet.

Fix:

Double check your PIN entry and it must be exactly 4 digits
If you're still using the default PIN (0000), change it first using: *600*0000*NewPIN*NewPIN#
If you've forgotten your PIN, see Section 6 for reset methods.

2. "Transfer Failed" Message

Cause: Your airtime balance is too low or there's a temporary network problem.

Fix:

Check your airtime balance by dialing *310# (updated 2025 code)
Make sure you have enough balance plus the minimum leftover airtime required by MTN
Try again when you have stronger network signal

3. "Recipient Not MTN"

Cause: You're trying to send airtime to a number on another network (Airtel, Glo, 9mobile).

Fix:

MTN Share & Sell works only MTN-to-MTN
Confirm the recipient's number really belongs to MTN before retrying

4. Network Delay (No Confirmation SMS)

Cause: Temporary congestion in MTN's system.

Fix:

Wait a few minutes as the transaction might still go through
Check your balance to see if the airtime was deducted
If you still haven't received confirmation after 30 minutes, contact MTN Customer Care by dialing 300 or visiting the nearest MTN service centre

Pro Tip: Always double-check the recipient's number before pressing send. Transfers are instant and irreversible, once airtime lands in the wrong account, only the recipient can send it back.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the updated code to share airtime on MTN in 2025?

The official MTN airtime sharing code has changed in 2025 to:

*321*RecipientNumber*Amount*PIN#

Example:

*321*08030000000*100*1234#

You can also dial *321# and follow the menu prompts.

2. Can I transfer airtime from MTN to Airtel or Glo?

No. MTN Share & Sell works only MTN-to-MTN. If the recipient is on another network, you can buy them airtime directly using a bank USSD code or mobile banking app.

3. How do I check if my MTN airtime transfer was successful?

You'll receive a confirmation SMS instantly after a successful transfer
You can also check your balance with *310# (updated 2025 code) to confirm airtime was deducted.

4. Is there a fee for MTN airtime transfers?

No. MTN Share & Sell is free of charge. You only need enough airtime in your balance to cover the transfer.

5. How do I reset my MTN airtime transfer PIN?

If you still remember your default PIN (0000), change it using:

*600*0000*NewPIN*NewPIN#

If you forgot your PIN, call MTN Customer Care on 300 or visit an MTN service centre.

6. What is the daily limit for MTN airtime transfers?

Y ou can transfer up to ₦5,000 per transaction and ₦50,000 per day
Minimum per transfer is ₦50

7. Can I share MTN airtime without a PIN?

No. A valid 4-digit Transfer PIN is required for all Share & Sell transactions for security reasons.

8. Can I request airtime from someone on MTN?

Yes! You can request airtime by dialing *321*1# and selecting the request option. You'll enter the person's number and amount (minimum ₦50), and an SMS request will be sent to them.