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Available balance check methods
Safaricom prepaid customers can check their balance using USSD codes, the MySafaricom app, or the M-PESA platform. USSD codes are the fastest method and work on any phone without an internet connection.
Safaricom has dedicated codes for main airtime balance, data balance, M-PESA balance, and Okoa Jahazi (emergency credit) status.
USSD codes
Safaricom USSD balance check codes
| Check type | USSD code | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Main airtime + data balance | *144# | Shows airtime balance, data balance, and bundles in one screen |
| Data balance only | *544# | Dedicated data balance check with MB/GB remaining and expiry |
| M-PESA balance | *234# | Check your M-PESA mobile money account balance |
| Okoa Jahazi status | *130# | Check Okoa Jahazi emergency airtime debt and available credit |
| Bamba data balance | *144*2# | Check data balance specifically for Bamba data bundles |
| MySafaricom app | App only | Full dashboard with balance, usage, and top-up |
USSD codes are free to dial. Some services accessed through the menu may incur charges.
How to check
How to check your Safaricom balance
- Open your phone dialer.
- Dial *144# for combined airtime and data balance display.
- Press the call button and wait for the USSD response.
- Your airtime balance and active data bundles will display automatically.
- For M-PESA balance: dial *234#, enter your M-PESA PIN when prompted.
- For MySafaricom app: download from Play Store or App Store, register with your Safaricom number, and view the full dashboard.
More info
About Safaricom balance checks
Safaricom USSD codes explained
- `*144#`: The primary balance check code. It shows your airtime balance in KES, active data bundles with remaining MB/GB, voice minutes remaining, and SMS bundle status.
- `*544#`: Dedicated data balance check. Displays remaining internet data in MB or GB and the exact expiry date of your active data plan.
- `*234#`: M-PESA mobile money balance check. Enter your M-PESA PIN to view your M-PESA account balance. This is separate from your Safaricom airtime balance.
- `*130#`: Okoa Jahazi emergency credit service. Check how much emergency airtime you can borrow, your current Okoa Jahazi debt, and repayment information.
- `*144*2#`: Bamba data bundles balance check. If you use Safaricom Bamba data plans, this code shows your specific Bamba data balance.
MySafaricom app
The MySafaricom app (Android and iOS) provides comprehensive account management: real-time airtime and data balances, data bundle purchase, M-PESA integration, bill payments, and customer support.
Airtime balance vs data balance
Safaricom separates your airtime balance (prepaid credit in KES for voice calls, SMS, and pay-as-you-go data) from your data balance (remaining MB/GB of your active data bundle). The *144# code conveniently shows both on one screen.
M-PESA
M-PESA is a separate mobile money platform even though it runs on Safaricom's network. Your M-PESA balance is not the same as your airtime balance. Dial *234# or open the M-PESA app to check it.
Troubleshooting
- Ensure your phone is connected to the Safaricom network (check the carrier name).
- Roaming: USSD codes may not be available outside Kenya. Use the MySafaricom app over WiFi instead.
- If USSD codes do not respond, restart your phone and try again.
- If you recharged and the balance has not updated, wait up to 30 minutes and retry.
Questions
Safaricom balance check questions
Is *144# free on Safaricom?
Yes, dialing *144# and other Safaricom USSD balance check codes is free. You are only charged if you subscribe to services or bundles through the menu.
How do I check my Safaricom data balance?
Dial *544# for a dedicated data balance display showing your remaining MB/GB and expiry date, or dial *144# for a combined view of all balances.
What is the Safaricom M-PESA balance check code?
Dial *234# and enter your M-PESA PIN to check your M-PESA mobile money balance. This is separate from your airtime balance.
How do I check my Okoa Jahazi balance?
Dial *130# to check your Okoa Jahazi emergency credit debt, available borrowing limit, and repayment schedule.
Can I check my Safaricom balance while roaming?
USSD codes may not work while roaming outside Kenya. Use the MySafaricom app over WiFi or mobile data to check your balance from anywhere.
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