Telkom knows how frustrating it is to run out of your favourite bundle at the worst possible moment. That’s why we’ve created a super-convenient way for you to top up your bundle or airtime directly using your bank card. It’s the perfect solution for those moments when you need a quick recharge on the go. And the best part? You can recharge for a friend, too!

Offline? Not on our watch

Life has a way of stretching us. Long days, busy schedules, and plans piling up mean that sometimes we’re not the only ones who need a recharge. Thankfully, when your screen freezes mid-search or a call drops because your bundle just tapped out, Telkom’s USSD *180# journey steps in with a refreshingly simple fix.

You can now top up using your bank card directly from USSD. It’s dial, tap, done. Here is your clear, confidence-building guide to recharging your number or giving someone else the rescue they secretly knew was coming.

A simple fix for every situation

USSD has always had a bit of magic for Telkom customers. It works when you have zero airtime, zero data, and need a quick result. Traditionally, you might have had to load airtime first before buying a bundle.

The new bank card payment option smooths out the entire journey, making it ideal for those moments when you want to avoid unnecessary steps. Whether you are a Prepaid or Postpaid customer, the *180# option is designed to get you back online in seconds.

How to recharge in 5 simple steps

Step 1: Dial 180#

Start by dialling *180# on your mobile device. This opens your self-service menu immediately. No airtime or data required.

Step 2: Choose what you want to buy

Select  Buy with Card, then select airtime, data, or one of the available promo bundles. The prompts keep things straightforward. You can recharge your own number or enter someone else’s, perfect for households, kids, or friends caught in a data dip.

Step 3: Follow your secure SMS link

You’ll receive an SMS containing a secure link. Tap it to open a protected payment page optimised for mobile, keeping the process fast, easy, and consistent. After the customer clicks on the link, they will receive an OTP that they will need to input before they see the payment page.

Step 4: Enter your card details

Add your bank card details and approve the transaction. The page is designed for clarity, helping you glide through the steps.

Step 5: Get your confirmation

Once your payment succeeds, Telkom sends a confirmation SMS. Your airtime or bundle loads instantly onto the number you selected. If you were buying for someone else, the recharge reflects on their device while you receive the confirmation.

Did you know? Unique USSD features

While *180# is your go-to for buying data and airtime, USSD has other unique tricks up its sleeve that can save the day when you don’t have internet access:

• Check balances fast: Dial *188# for a quick snapshot of your airtime and data balances.
• Find your number instantly: Forgot your own number? Simply dial *1#, and your MSISDN (mobile number) and IMSI (SIM number) will pop up on your screen instantly.

Recharging for someone else

One of the best features of this service is how easily it lets you help others. Whether it’s a stream-happy kid whose screen is stuck on buffer, a friend with no sense of direction who needs GPS, or a helper who suddenly goes offline, you can save the day.

The step-by-step recharge stays the same, whether you’re buying for yourself or another Telkom number. Dial *180#, select “Buy With Card”, enter their Telkom number, choose the product, and complete the payment via the secure link.

Choose the channel that works for you

With everything life throws your way, it helps to have options that work when you need them. Telkom is committed to giving you self-service channels that fit your lifestyle:

• *USSD (180#): Best for quick, offline recharges and basic account management on any device.
• MyTelkom App: Best for a full visual breakdown of your usage, managing subscriptions, and detailed account history.
• WhatsApp (081 160 1700): Best for chatting to us, checking balances, and getting support in an app you already use every day.

Whether you’re travelling, working, or just relaxing, Telkom has a recharge option that keeps up with you.