MTN splits data into 6 different balances that need different codes to check. Learn all methods (*323*4#, *131*4#, 5594#), understand rollover rules, and find where your 'missing' data is hiding.
You know that mini heart attack when Netflix suddenly stops loading and you're not sure if it's your data or MTN network? Yeah, I've been there too many times. After years of obsessively checking my data balance (and helping literally hundreds of people figure out why their data "disappeared"), I've mastered every possible way to check MTN data balance - including some tricks MTN doesn't advertise.
Here's what nobody tells you: there are actually 7 different ways to check your balance, each showing different information. Some show bonus data, others don't. Some work offline, others need data to check data (ironic, right?). And that rollover feature everyone talks about? It only works if you know the secret timing. I'm about to break down everything - the codes, the apps, the tricks, and why your data might not be showing correctly.
Quick Navigation
Why Checking Your Balance Properly Matters
Last month, my cousin called me panicking - her 20GB data had "vanished" in 3 days. When we checked properly (not just the basic balance), we discovered 15GB was sitting in a separate bonus balance that only worked at night. She'd been buying new data while unused gigabytes expired!
This happens because MTN splits your data into different buckets:
Each type needs different codes to check, and they don't always show up together. Let me show you exactly how to see everything.
All USSD Methods to Check MTN Data Balance
USSD codes are the fastest way to check your balance. They work even when you have no data left, and they're free (except one).
Method 1: *323*4# (The New Standard)
This is MTN's new unified code that replaced the old *131*4# (though the old one still works).
Method 2: *323# (The Detailed Menu)
This gives you more options and shows different balance types:
Method 3: *131*4# (The Old Reliable)
The original code that still works perfectly:
Method 4: *559*4# (Bonus Balance)
This code specifically shows bonus and promotional data:
Method 5: *123*10# (Everything at Once)
The nuclear option - shows EVERYTHING:
Pro Tip: Save *323*4# as a contact named "Balance" for one-tap checking!
MyMTN App Method (Most Detailed)
The MyMTN app shows the most information, but obviously needs data or WiFi to work.
How to Check Balance on MyMTN App
MyMTN App Exclusive Features
App vs USSD: Which is Better?
| Feature | USSD Codes | MyMTN App | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | 5 seconds | 30 seconds | USSD ✅ |
| Detail Level | Basic | Very detailed | App ✅ |
| Works Offline | Yes | No | USSD ✅ |
| Shows History | No | Yes | App ✅ |
| Multiple Balances | Separate codes | All in one | App ✅ |
SMS Methods (Old School but Reliable)
Sometimes USSD codes fail (network issues), but SMS usually works:
SMS Balance Check Options
Voice Method (Yes, Really)
Call 323 and follow the voice prompts. Costs ₦4 but useful when screen is broken or you can't see USSD responses.
MTN Data Rollover: How It Actually Works
Everyone talks about MTN data rollover, but most people don't understand the rules. I learned these the hard way (by losing data):
The Golden Rules of Data Rollover
Rollover Examples (What Works vs What Doesn't)
| Scenario | Old Plan | New Plan | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Perfect Rollover | 2GB monthly (3GB unused) | 2GB monthly (before expiry) | 5GB total |
| ✅ Upgrade Rollover | 2GB monthly (1GB unused) | 5GB monthly (before expiry) | 6GB total |
| ❌ After Expiry | 2GB monthly (expired) | 2GB monthly | 2GB only (lost old data) |
| ❌ Downgrade | 5GB monthly (3GB unused) | 2GB monthly | 2GB only (lost unused) |
| ❌ Different Types | 3GB weekly (2GB unused) | 5GB monthly | 5GB only (no rollover) |
How to Check Rollover Eligibility
Before buying new data, check if your current plan can rollover:
Rollover Hack: The 24-Hour Rule
Here's something I discovered: MTN gives you a 24-hour grace period after expiry where rollover still works - but ONLY if you had auto-renew set up and it failed due to insufficient balance. Not officially documented, but I've tested it multiple times.
Need to Top Up Your Data?
Don't lose your unused data! Top up before expiry to take advantage of rollover. Quick and easy activation.
Buy Data NowMTN Data Transfer & Sharing
You can share your data balance with others, but there are limits and costs:
How to Transfer Data Balance
Data Sharing vs Data Gifting
| Feature | Data Sharing | Data Gifting |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Your existing data | Buy new data for someone |
| Cost | ₦50 transfer fee | Data cost only |
| Minimum | 50MB | Depends on plan |
| Maximum | 5GB daily | No limit |
| Code | *131*7# | *131*8# |
Why Your Data "Disappears" (And How to Find It)
I get this question literally every day: "My data just vanished!" Here's usually what happened:
Common Reasons for "Missing" Data
How to Track What's Using Your Data
On Android:
On iPhone:
The Hidden Data Vampires
Understanding Bonus & Promotional Data
MTN gives out bonus data like candy, but it always comes with catches:
Types of Bonus Data
| Bonus Type | How to Get | Restrictions | Check Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recharge Bonus | Recharge ₦100+ | 7-day validity | *559*4# |
| 4G Bonus | Upgrade to 4G SIM | 30-day validity | *559*4# |
| Birthday Bonus | Automatic on birthday | 24-hour validity | *559*63# |
| Welcome Back | Inactive for 30+ days | 3-day validity | *559*4# |
| Night Bonus | With certain plans | 11pm-6am only | *131*4# |
| YouTube Bonus | With certain plans | YouTube app only | *131*4# |
Why Bonus Data Expires Fast
MTN deliberately gives bonus data short validity to encourage quick usage. They know most people won't use 10GB in 3 days, so it expires and you buy more. Smart for them, annoying for us.
Bonus Data Hack: Use bonus data FIRST by turning off main data. Dial *131*200# to deactivate main bundle temporarily.
Troubleshooting Balance Check Issues
Sometimes balance checks don't work. Here's how to fix common problems:
Problem: "Service Temporarily Unavailable"
Problem: Balance Shows Zero But Data Works
Problem: Different Balances on Different Checks
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between *323*4# and *131*4#?
Functionally, they're identical. *323*4# is the newer unified code, while *131*4# is the legacy code. Both show main data balance instantly and free.
Why does my balance show differently on the app vs USSD?
The app updates in real-time while USSD can lag by 5-30 minutes. After heavy usage, the app is more accurate.
Can I check someone else's MTN data balance?
No, you can only check balance on the SIM in your phone. For security, MTN doesn't allow checking other numbers' balances.
Does checking balance use data?
USSD codes (*323*4#) don't use data. The MyMTN app uses about 5-10MB per session. SMS costs ₦4 but no data.
Why does my night data not show during the day?
Night data (11pm-6am) only appears in balance checks during its active hours. Check after 11pm to see night balance.
How often does data balance update?
Real-time in MyMTN app, every 5-10 minutes for USSD during active use, instantly after purchase or transfer.
Can I rollover bonus data?
No, bonus data never rolls over. Only main data purchases can rollover when you renew before expiry.
What's the 0MB balance but internet works issue?
You're likely using bonus data, social bundles, or night data. Check specific balances with *559*4# or *323# menu.
Can expired data be recovered?
No, once data expires it's gone forever. That's why rollover timing is crucial - always renew before expiry.
Does *323*4# work while roaming?
Yes, but you'll see your roaming data balance, not your regular Nigerian balance. Roaming data is separate.
Pro Tips from Years of Balance Checking
The Morning Routine
Check your balance every morning before using your phone. This helps you catch unusual usage immediately, not after your data is gone.
The Screenshot Strategy
Screenshot your balance after buying data. When MTN "forgets" your purchase (it happens), you have proof.
The Dual-SIM Trick
If you have dual SIM, set MTN for downloads only. This makes tracking data usage much easier since all heavy usage is on one SIM.
The Family Plan
Create a WhatsApp group for family data management. Everyone posts their balance daily. Helps catch whose device is eating all the data.
Final Thoughts
Checking your MTN data balance shouldn't be complicated, but MTN has made it unnecessarily complex with different balance types, bonus categories, and restrictions. The key is knowing which code shows what and checking regularly.
My advice? Stick to *323*4# for quick checks, use the MyMTN app for detailed analysis, and ALWAYS check before your data expires so you can rollover unused amounts. And please, turn off auto-download in WhatsApp - it's probably eating half your data!
Keep Your Data Balance Healthy
Never run out unexpectedly. Top up your MTN data instantly and keep browsing without interruption.
Top Up Data BalanceStill confused about something? Drop a comment below. I check balances obsessively and I'm happy to help you figure out where your data is hiding.
Ready to ship faster?
Sign in to top up, send messages, and automate payments in minutes.
Managing promotional campaigns, mobile top-ups, utility bills, and subscription renewals across Nigeria's diverse service providers has become increasingly complex for businesses and individuals seeking efficient, reliable solutions.