How to Check Airtel Data Balance | USSD Code, Calls & SMS

If you’re trying to check your Airtel data balance, you don’t need to waste time. This blog shows you exactly how to do it with the latest methods that work right now.

You’ll see simple options like USSD codes, the Airtel app, SMS, and more. Just go through and use whichever one is easiest for you.

Method 1: How to Check Airtel Data Balance Using USSD Code

This is the quickest way to check your Airtel data balance. You don’t need the internet or any app for this.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Open the dialer on your phone.
• Type Airtel data check number *121# and press the call button.
• A menu will appear on your screen.
• Follow the options shown to check your data balance.

(In most cases, you’ll need to reply with a number like 5 or 2, depending on what shows up.)

If that code doesn’t work for some reason, you can also try *121*1#. This balance check code sometimes shows your balance directly without any menu.

If *121# is delayed, remember Airtel recently added 4.7 million active users in January 2025, so the system may lag slightly due to higher traffic.

This method works for both prepaid and postpaid users, and it’s free to use. Mostly all Airtel users follow this method for checking Airtel data balance.

Keep Reading: How-to Check Airtel Number

Method 2: How to Check Airtel Balance in Airtel Thanks App

Here’s how you can see how much balance you have left using the Airtel Thanks app:

Step-by-step:

1. Open the Airtel Thanks app

If you don’t have the app, download it from the Play Store or App Store.

2. Log in with your mobile number

Type your Airtel number. Then type the 6-digit code (OTP) that you get in a message.

3. Tap on "Services"

After logging in, look at the bottom of the screen. You’ll see an option called Services. Tap it.

4. See your data balance

Now, you will see how much data is left, how much you used, and when it will end.

Want to check daily data balance? The app or USSD shows your Airtel daily data usage and validity instantly.

Method 3: Check Airtel Data Balance via SMS

You don’t need internet or any app for this. Just follow these steps:

1. Open your Messages app on your phone.

2. Type this text exactly: DATA BAL

3. Send it to 121 (this is Airtel’s official number).

You’ll get a message back from Airtel with your current data balance and validity.

More on This Topic: How to check Airtel Call History Online

Common Issues & How to Fix Them

Sometimes, checking your Airtel data balance might not work as expected. Here are some common problems and how you can fix them quickly:

1. USSD Code Not Working

Problem: You dial the code, but nothing happens, or it says “Invalid code.”

Fix:

• Make sure you’re dialing the code from your Airtel SIM, not any other SIM.
• Check your network signal. If it’s low, move to an area with better coverage and try again.
• Restart your phone and try the code again.

2. Airtel Thanks App Not Opening or Crashing

Problem: You open the app, but it keeps loading, crashing, or doesn’t open.

Fix:

• Make sure you’re connected to the internet or Wi-Fi.
• Update the app from the Play Store or App Store.
• If it still doesn’t work, uninstall the app and install it again.
• Or simply try checking your balance using the USSD code instead.

3. Not Receiving SMS Reply

Problem: You send an SMS to check balance but don’t get a reply.

Fix:

• Make sure your SMS service is active. Try sending a test message to someone.
• Wait for a few minutes, sometimes replies take time.
• If no reply comes, check using the Airtel Thanks app or a USSD code instead.

4. Wrong Balance Info Showing

Problem: The data balance or validity shown looks wrong or old.

Fix:

• Refresh your Airtel Thanks app or check again using the USSD code.
• Sometimes the info updates late, wait for a few minutes and try again.
• If the issue continues, call 121 (Airtel Customer Care) and ask for help.

Worth a Look: Airtel Call Forwarding Code

5. Can’t Log In to Airtel Thanks App

Problem: You try to log in, but it says “Invalid number” or doesn’t go ahead.

Fix:

• Make sure you're using your Airtel mobile number only.
• You’ll get an OTP (one-time password), enter it correctly.
• Still not working? Restart your phone and try again.

If none of the fixes work, you can always call 121 from your Airtel number and talk to customer support. They’ll help you with anything.

Final Words

So, now you know how to check your Airtel data balance in many ways. But if you're looking for the quickest and easiest method, just dial *121# from your Airtel number. It’s a 100% working code and gives you all your balance details like data, validity, and offers right away in a message. Super easy and works every time!

You can also send an SMS or use the Airtel Thanks app, which most people use now. The app shows everything clearly: your remaining data, validity, offers, and even your recharge history. It’s all in one place and very simple to understand.

And hey, if you’re also wondering how to check your Airtel number, I’ve written a full blog about that too! You can check it out anytime.

Thanks for reading!

Hope this guide helped you.