How to Borrow Data on MTN

Running out of data at the wrong time can be frustrating, especially when you need to stay connected for work, school, or personal reasons. Fortunately, MTN Nigeria offers a convenient solution: the MTN Data Borrowing Service. This service allows eligible customers to borrow data bundles when they run out of their regular data plan. In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know about borrowing data on MTN, including eligibility, steps to borrow data, repayment, and tips to manage your data usage effectively.

What is MTN Data Borrowing?

MTN Data Borrowing is a service that allows eligible MTN customers to borrow data bundles when they exhaust their data plan. The borrowed data can be used immediately, and the cost is deducted from your airtime balance or added to your next recharge. This service is designed to provide temporary relief until you can recharge your account. See How to Borrow Data on Airtel.

Key Features of MTN Data Borrowing

• Instant Access: Borrow data instantly without needing to recharge.
• Flexible Repayment: Repay the borrowed data when you next recharge.
• Short-Term Solution: Ideal for emergencies or when you’re unable to recharge immediately.

Eligibility for MTN Data Borrowing

Not all MTN customers are eligible to borrow data. Eligibility depends on factors like your usage history, account standing, and MTN’s internal criteria. Here’s how to check if you’re eligible:

1. Via USSD Code

1. Dial *131# on your MTN line.
2. Select the option for “Data Borrowing” or “Borrow Data.”
3. If eligible, you’ll see the available data bundles you can borrow.

2. Via MyMTN App

1. Download and open the MyMTN App (available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store).
2. Log in with your MTN number.
3. Navigate to the “Data” section and look for the “Borrow Data” option.
4. If eligible, you’ll see the data bundles you can borrow.

Steps to Borrow Data on MTN

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, follow these steps to borrow data:

1. Using USSD Code

1. Dial *131# on your MTN line.
2. Select the option for “Data Borrowing” or “Borrow Data.”
3. Choose the data bundle you want to borrow (e.g., 100MB, 200MB, etc.).
4. Confirm your selection.
5. You’ll receive a confirmation message, and the borrowed data will be added to your account.

2. Using MyMTN App

1. Open the MyMTN App.
2. Go to the “Data” section.
3. Select “Borrow Data.”
4. Choose the data bundle you want to borrow.
5. Confirm your selection.
6. You’ll receive a confirmation message, and the borrowed data will be added to your account.

Available Data Bundles for Borrowing

MTN offers a range of data bundles that you can borrow, depending on your eligibility. Here are some common options:

• 120MB: ₦100
• 250MB: ₦200
• 750MB: ₦500
• 1GB: ₦800

See Full List of MTN Data Bundles.

Repaying Borrowed Data

Borrowed data is not free, and you’ll need to repay the cost. Here’s how repayment works:

1. Automatic Deduction

• The cost of the borrowed data will be deducted from your airtime balance when you next recharge.
• If you don’t have enough airtime, the amount will be deducted from your next recharge.

2. Repayment Amount

• The amount to be repaid depends on the data bundle you borrowed. For example:
• Borrowing 100MB might cost ₦100.
• Borrowing 500MB might cost ₦500.

3. Validity of Borrowed Data

• Borrowed data typically has a short validity period (e.g., 24 hours or 7 days), so use it wisely.

Tips for Managing Your Data Usage

To avoid running out of data frequently, consider these tips:

1. Monitor Your Data Usage

• Use the MyMTN App to track your data usage in real-time.
• Set data usage alerts to notify you when you’re nearing your limit.

2. Use Data-Saving Features

• Enable data-saving mode on your apps (e.g., YouTube, Instagram).
• Use lightweight versions of apps (e.g., Facebook Lite, Twitter Lite).

3. Recharge Regularly

• Subscribe to affordable data plans that suit your usage needs.
• Set up auto-renewal for your data plans to avoid interruptions.

4. Connect to Wi-Fi

• Use Wi-Fi whenever possible to conserve your mobile data.
• Download content (e.g., videos, music) over Wi-Fi for offline use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I borrow data if I have an outstanding loan?

A: No, you must repay any outstanding loans before you can borrow data again.

Q2: How long does borrowed data last?

A: Borrowed data typically has a validity period of 24 hours or 7 days, depending on the bundle.

Q3: What happens if I don’t repay the borrowed data?

A: If you don’t repay the borrowed data, you may be unable to borrow data or access other MTN services until the debt is cleared.

Q4: Can I borrow data more than once?

A: Yes, but you must repay any previous loans before borrowing again.

Q5: Is there a limit to how much data I can borrow?

A: Yes, the amount of data you can borrow depends on your eligibility and MTN’s policies.

Alternative Options If You Can’t Borrow Data

If you’re not eligible to borrow data or need a more permanent solution, consider these alternatives:

1. Purchase a Data Plan

• Use the MyMTN App or dial *131# to buy a data plan that suits your needs.
• Choose from daily, weekly, or monthly plans.

2. Share Data with Family and Friends

• If you’re part of an MTN family plan, you can share data with other members.
• Dial 1312# and select the “Share Data” option.

3. Use MTN Pulse Tariff

• MTN Pulse offers affordable data rates for heavy data users.
• Dial *406# to migrate to MTN Pulse.

Conclusion on How to Stay Connected with MTN Data Borrowing

MTN’s Data Borrowing service is a convenient way to stay connected when you run out of data. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily check your eligibility, borrow data, and manage your usage effectively. Remember to repay your borrowed data promptly to maintain access to this service and avoid interruptions.

If you have any further questions or need assistance, contact MTN customer care by dialing 180 or visiting the nearest MTN store.