Staying connected through calls, texts, and data is very important. If you can’t recharge your phone, it can feel like you’re cut off from everything.
That’s why Telkom users need to know how to top up their airtime quickly and easily. The Telkom airtime recharge code makes it simple, if you’re using a voucher, your phone, or a USSD code.
In this article, we’ll show you how to use the Telkom airtime recharge code, different ways to recharge your airtime, how to check your Telkom number, and share a full list of Telkom USSD codes to help you manage your account.
Telkom Airtime Recharge Code
The Telkom airtime recharge code is: *188*voucher*pin#. This code is your go-to method for loading airtime directly onto your Telkom line using a recharge voucher.
Example: *188*123456789012345#
Then press the call button. You’ll receive a confirmation SMS once your account has been credited.
This method is fast, works on all mobile phones (even feature phones), and doesn’t require internet access.
How to Recharge Telkom Airtime Voucher
If you’ve bought a Telkom airtime voucher, just do the following:
- Scratch the silver part to see your Telkom recharge pin.
- Open your phone and dial
*188*PIN#. - Press the call button.
- Wait for a message telling you that your airtime has been added.
Read: Jaiz Bank USSD Code for Airtime, Transfer, & Mobile Banking
How to Recharge Telkom Airtime via Cellphone
Don’t have a physical voucher? That’s okay. You can still recharge your Telkom airtime using your phone in different ways.
Method 1: USSD Code
This is the easiest way, especially if you don’t have internet.
- Dial:
*188*recharge_pin# - Press the call button
Your airtime will be loaded immediately.
Method 2: Using the Telkom App
This works if your phone is connected to the internet.
- Download the Telkom App from the Play Store or App Store.
- Open the app and log in with your Telkom number.
- Tap on “Recharge” or “Buy Airtime.”
- Type in the amount you want.
- Follow the steps to pay and complete the recharge.
Method 3: Using Your Bank’s App
Many banks in South Africa let you buy airtime through their mobile apps.
- Open your bank app on your phone.
- Tap on “Buy Airtime.”
- Choose Telkom as the network.
- Type in your Telkom number and how much airtime you want.
- Confirm, and the airtime will be sent to your phone.
See this: How to Transfer Data from Vodacom to MTN in South Africa in 2025
Telkom Recharge Pin| What is It?
Your Telkom recharge pin is a 15-digit number you use to top up airtime. You can get this pin from:
- Scratch cards: Scratch the silver part to see the pin.
- Online vouchers: The pin is sent to you by SMS or shown on your screen after you buy it online.
Before you recharge, make sure:
- You typed the PIN correctly.
- The voucher hasn’t been used.
- Your phone has a good network signal.
Telkom Number Check Code
If you can’t remember your Telkom phone number, don’t worry. You can easily find it by dialing a short code on your phone.
USSD Codes to Check Your Telkom Number:
- Dial *1#
- Or dial *131#
Your Telkom number will show up on your screen right away.
Another Easy Method
- Dial *100#
- Select ‘My Account’
- Then choose “My Number’
Your number will appear on your screen in a few seconds. This is helpful if you just bought a new SIM or haven’t memorized your number yet.
Read Also: How to Share Data on MTN 2025
Telkom USSD Codes List
Here is the latest list of Telkom USSD codes you can use to manage your line and services with ease.
| What You Want to Do | Code to Dial |
|---|
| Load Airtime | 188recharge_pin# |
| Check How Much Airtime You Have | *188# |
| See Your Telkom Phone Number | *1# or *131# |
| Buy Internet/Data Bundles | *180# |
| Send Airtime to Someone Else | *180# → Choose “Airtime Share” |
| See Your Current Tariff Plan | *180# → Choose “Tariff Plan” |
| Change to Another Tariff Plan | *180# → Choose “Tariff Migration” |
| Buy Voice (Call) Bundles | *180# → Choose “Voice Bundles” |
| Buy SMS Bundles | *180# → Choose “SMS Bundles” |
| Talk to Telkom Customer Service | Call 180 (Free) |
| Send a “Please Call Me” Message | 140recipient_number# |
| Check for Telkom Special Offers | *100# → Choose “Promotions” |
About Telkom
Telkom is one of the biggest phone and internet companies in South Africa. It provides mobile, internet, and landline services across the country. Many people like Telkom because it offers low prices, fast data plans, and strong network coverage.
Telkom offers the following services:
- Mobile plans for both prepaid and contract users
- Fast internet through LTE and fibre connections
- Special deals like Mo’Nice and FreeMe bundles
- Services for businesses and big companies
Frequently Asked Questions
You can recharge via the Telkom app, online platforms, mobile banking apps, or USSD-based banking services.
Check for typing errors. If the issue persists, call Telkom customer service at 180 or visit a Telkom store with your voucher receipt.
Yes. Dial *180#, choose Airtime Share, and follow the on-screen steps.
Yes. Go to *180#, then choose Manage Subscriptions → Cancel.
Conclusion
Knowing how to use the Telkom airtime recharge code is very important to stay connected, especially when it’s urgent. Whether you recharge using a paper voucher, the Telkom app, or your bank’s app, it’s now very easy. With the full list of Telkom USSD codes, you can also manage your phone easily with just a few button presses.
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References
- Shop.carry1st.com – Telkom Mobile Airtime& Data Bundle Top Up Vouchers
- Techcentral.co.za – USSD Codes on Vodacom, MTN, and Telkom
- Mobiletree.gumtree.co.za – How to check your Telkom balance for airtime and data
