How to Check Active Services on MTN (USSD, App, Web) — Global Guide

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Have you ever looked at your MTN airtime or data balance and wondered why it keeps dropping? You may be paying for active services that you do not even know about. These are often called value-added services (VAS), subscriptions, or auto-renewing bundles. They can be useful, but many of them keep running until you manually cancel them.

Table of Contents

• What are MTN Active Services?
• Types of Subscriptions Eating Your Airtime
• Quick USSD Codes by Country
• Why is the USSD Code Not Working?
• Using the MyMTN App (Recommended)
• How to Stop Charges Permanently (DND)
• How to Get a Refund for Wrongful Deductions
• Frequently Asked Questions

What does “active services” on MTN mean?

Active services are subscriptions linked to your MTN SIM card. They include caller tunes, daily SMS alerts, religious content, and even automatic data renewals. Some are activated by you; others may be activated by accident when you click a pop-up or a link while browsing the web.

The Different Types of MTN Subscriptions Explained

Not all services are the same. Understanding which one is eating your balance helps you find it faster:

• VAS (Value Added Services): Entertainment-based content like MTN Play, Callertunez, or Daily Devotionals.
• Third-Party Content: Often the most “hidden.” These come from partner companies and usually look like “News Alerts” or “Sports Scores.”
• Auto-Renewing Data Bundles: Small social bundles (WhatsApp/Instagram) that keep renewing even if you have a larger data plan active.
• Digital Apps: Subscriptions to platforms like Ayoba or Apple Music billed directly via your airtime.

Quick steps to check your active MTN services via USSD

USSD is the fastest way to see your active services. It works without data and is available 24/7. However, different countries use different codes. Here is the 2026 verified list:

Troubleshooting: Why is the USSD Code Not Working?

If you dial the code and get an “Mmi Error” or “Connection Timeout,” check these three things:

1. Network Congestion: MTN servers handle millions of requests. If it fails, wait until late at night or early morning when traffic is low.
2. Roaming: If you are outside your home country, USSD codes often fail. Use the MyMTN App instead.
3. SIM Age: Very old SIM cards may not support modern interactive menus. If errors persist, visit an MTN office for a SIM upgrade.

How to use the MyMTN app to check services

The MyMTN app is the most transparent way to manage your account. It shows you exactly how much each service costs per renewal cycle.

1. Download: Install the MyMTN app from your app store.
2. Login: Use your phone number and the OTP sent via SMS.
3. View Services: Navigate to the “Detailed Balance” or “More” section.
4. Manage: Look for “Active Subscriptions.” You can toggle them off with a single tap.

How to stop these charges forever (DND Mode)

If subscriptions keep returning, you need to activate Do Not Disturb (DND). This blocks third-party companies from “pushing” subscriptions to your phone.

• For Nigeria: Text STOP to 2442.
• For South Africa: Open the MyMTN App and disable “Third-Party Billing.”
• For Ghana: Dial *175# and select “Opt-out of all marketing.”

How to get a refund for wrongful deductions

If you have cancelled everything but airtime is still disappearing, follow these steps:

1. Call Customer Care: Dial 180 (NG) or 135 (SA). State clearly that you have an “involuntary activation.”
2. Use Social Media: Tag MTN’s official support handles on X (formerly Twitter). Public complaints are often handled faster.
3. Escalate to Regulators: If MTN refuses to refund you, contact your local regulator:
   • Nigeria: NCC (Dial 622)
   • South Africa: ICASA
   • Ghana: NCA

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does *305# show all active services?

In Nigeria, yes. It covers all Value Added Services. In other countries, please refer to the table above for your specific local code.

How long does cancellation take?

Most cancellations are instant. You should receive a confirmation SMS immediately. If the service still appears after 24 hours, contact support.

Is the MyMTN app free to use?

Yes, the app is free, and most MTN networks allow you to use the app without consuming your data plan.

Conclusion

Taking control of your MTN account is essential to stop airtime leakage. By using the USSD codes, the MyMTN app, or DND services, you can ensure your money is only spent on the services you actually want.

Take the next step: Want to learn more about managing your line? Check out our guides on how to share data on MTN or our comprehensive guide on cancelling all MTN subscriptions