Need to send airtime to a friend, your mum or a colleague whose credit just finished? You can transfer airtime on MTN directly from your line using a service called Share ‘n Sell. This guide shows how to set your transfer PIN, send airtime step by step and fix common errors.
How MTN Airtime Transfer Works
MTN Share ‘n Sell lets you move airtime from your main balance to another MTN line. You need a four-digit transfer PIN to approve each transfer. The PIN protects your credit if someone else picks up your phone.
Note that airtime transfer works between MTN lines. You cannot transfer bonus airtime, only your main account balance.
Step 1: Change Your Default Transfer PIN
New MTN lines usually come with the default PIN 0000. Change it before your first airtime transfer.
- Dial *600*0000*NEWPIN*NEWPIN#.
- Replace NEWPIN with your chosen four-digit PIN. Type it twice to confirm.
- For example, *600*0000*1234*1234# sets your PIN to 1234.
- Wait for a confirmation message.
Choose a PIN that is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. Avoid 1234, 0000 or your birth year.
Step 2: Transfer Airtime on MTN With USSD
- Dial *600*RecipientNumber*Amount*PIN#.
- Example: *600*08031234567*500*1234# sends ₦500 to 08031234567.
- Confirm the transfer if prompted.
- Both you and the recipient receive an SMS once it succeeds.
Transfer Airtime on MTN by SMS
You can also send an SMS to 600 in this format: Transfer RecipientNumber Amount PIN. For example: Transfer 08031234567 500 1234. Reply to confirm when MTN asks.
Transfer Limits and Charges
MTN sets minimum and maximum amounts per transfer and per day. These limits can change, so the safest way to confirm them is to check MTN’s official Share ‘n Sell information or call customer care on 300. A small service fee may also apply.
Airtime Transfer Not Working? Common Fixes
- Wrong PIN: make sure you changed the default PIN and typed the new one correctly.
- Insufficient balance: you need enough main airtime to cover the amount and any fee.
- Wrong network: the recipient must have an MTN line.
- Bonus airtime: only your main balance can be transferred.
- Code format: check that you included every asterisk and the hash at the end.
Forgot Your Transfer PIN?
If you forget your PIN, contact MTN customer care on 300 or visit an MTN service centre with a valid ID. Staff can help you reset it after confirming that you own the line.
Other Ways to Help Someone With Airtime
Buy airtime directly for them
Most bank apps and fintech wallets let you buy airtime for any number on any network. This is often easier than a transfer, and it works across networks.
Share data instead
If the person needs internet rather than calls, sharing data may be better. The NCC harmonized code for sharing is *321#. Learn more in our guide to NCC harmonized short codes.
Borrow airtime
If you are the one who is out of credit, read our guides on how to borrow airtime from MTN and how to borrow data from MTN.
Stay Safe When You Transfer Airtime on MTN
- Never share your transfer PIN with anyone.
- Double-check the recipient’s number before confirming.
- Be careful of strangers who call asking you to “return” airtime sent by mistake. Check your balance first.
- Change your PIN if you think someone else knows it.
Quick Reference
| Task | Code |
|---|---|
| Change transfer PIN | *600*0000*NEWPIN*NEWPIN# |
| Transfer airtime | *600*Number*Amount*PIN# |
| Check airtime balance | *310# |
| Customer care | 300 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the code to transfer airtime on MTN?
Dial *600*RecipientNumber*Amount*PIN#.
What is the default MTN transfer PIN?
The default PIN is usually 0000. Change it before your first transfer.
Can I transfer MTN airtime to Airtel or Glo?
No. Share ‘n Sell works between MTN lines. Use a bank app to buy airtime for other networks.
Can I transfer bonus airtime?
No. Only your main balance can be transferred.
For official information, visit MTN Nigeria’s website.
Oladepo Babatunde (Prince Babatee Tunde) is a Computer Scientist, researcher, and professional content writer with a Higher National Diploma in Computer Science from Kwara State Polytechnic, Nigeria.
With a background in technology and a passion for clear communication, Babatunde specializes in creating thoroughly researched, reader-focused content on productivity, personal development, home living, and technology. Every article he writes is backed by extensive research and fact-checking to ensure readers receive accurate, actionable information.
As a freelance writer, he has helped brands and publications deliver content that educates, engages, and empowers their audiences. His mission at Vibena is simple: make complex topics easy to understand and help Nigerians live smarter, more productive lives.
