![]() |
| How to Option Out MTN Auto Renewal |
Learn how to option out MTN auto renewal in Nigeria using USSD, SMS, or the myMTN app. Stop unwanted data and airtime deductions easily.
MTN auto-renewal can be convenient, but it often becomes frustrating when data or voice plans renew automatically and deduct airtime you intended to use for something else. If you’ve ever woken up to an unexpected deduction, this guide will show you how to option out MTN auto renewal quickly and permanently using the latest, working methods in Nigeria.
This article is written to match informational search intent. It explains what MTN auto-renewal is, why it happens, and the exact steps to stop it using USSD, SMS, the myMTN App, and customer care—without technical jargon or guesswork.
What Is MTN Auto Renewal?
MTN auto-renewal is a feature that automatically renews your active data, voice, or value-added plan once it expires, as long as you have sufficient airtime. MTN enables this by default on most bundles to ensure uninterrupted service.
While useful, auto-renewal can:
- Consume airtime unexpectedly
- Renew plans you no longer use
- Interfere with budgeted data or airtime usage
Understanding how it works is the first step before learning how to option out MTN auto renewal successfully.
Why You May Want to Stop MTN Auto Renewal
Many MTN subscribers disable auto-renewal for practical reasons, including:
- Wanting to manually choose cheaper or promo plans
- Avoiding airtime deductions during emergencies
- Switching between networks or SIM cards
- Managing multiple MTN lines more effectively
MTN allows users to opt out, but the method depends on how the plan was activated.
How MTN Auto Renewal Works (Important to Know)
Before opting out, note these key points:
- Auto-renewal applies to data plans, voice bundles, and some subscription services
- Each active plan has its own renewal setting
- Stopping auto-renewal for one plan does not affect others
- You can opt out at any time, even immediately after subscribing
This is why some users think auto-renewal is “not working” when, in reality, only one plan was cancelled.
How to Option Out MTN Auto Renewal Using USSD
This is the fastest and most reliable method for most users.
Step-by-Step USSD Method
- Dial
*312#on your MTN line - Select Data Plans
- Choose Manage Data or Auto-Renewal (menu wording may vary)
- Select Cancel Auto-Renewal
- Choose the active plan you want to stop
- Confirm your selection
You’ll receive an SMS confirming that auto-renewal has been disabled.
This USSD method works on both smartphones and basic phones and does not require internet access.
How to Option Out MTN Auto Renewal via SMS
Some MTN plans support SMS cancellation, especially older data bundles.
General SMS Steps
- Open your phone’s Messages app
- Type STOPDATA (or the specific keyword sent by MTN during subscription)
- Send it to 312
If supported for your plan, MTN will reply with a confirmation message.
Note: Not all MTN plans respond to the same SMS keyword. If SMS fails, use USSD or the myMTN App.
How to Disable MTN Auto Renewal Using the myMTN App
For users who prefer visual control and detailed plan management, the myMTN App is ideal.
App Method
- Download or open the myMTN App from MTN Nigeria’s official platform
- Log in with your MTN number
- Go to My Plan or Subscriptions
- Select your active data or voice plan
- Toggle Auto-Renewal off
- Save changes
This method allows you to see all active plans at once, which reduces the risk of forgetting one.
MTN officially recommends the app for advanced subscription management, as stated on the MTN Nigeria website.
How to Cancel MTN Auto Renewal for Data Plans
Data plans are the most common source of auto-renewal complaints. Here’s how to handle them properly.
Common MTN Data Plans with Auto-Renewal
- Daily data bundles
- Weekly data plans
- Monthly data subscriptions
- SME-linked data bundles
To stop renewal:
- Use
*312#→ Manage Data → Cancel Auto-Renewal - Or disable it via the myMTN App
Always wait for the SMS confirmation before assuming it’s cancelled.
How to Option Out MTN Auto Renewal for Voice Plans
Voice bundles and call packages can also renew automatically.
Steps
- Dial
*312# - Choose Voice & SMS Plans
- Select Manage Subscription
- Cancel auto-renewal for the active voice bundle
This is especially important for international or special call bundles, which often have higher renewal costs.
How to Stop MTN Value-Added Services Auto Renewal
MTN also runs value-added services (VAS) like caller tunes, alerts, and content subscriptions.
To Manage VAS:
- Dial
*305#(MTN Do-Not-Disturb & services menu) - View active subscriptions
- Cancel unwanted services
You can also manage these through MTN Nigeria’s official self-service portal, which aligns with Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) consumer protection guidelines.
What to Do If MTN Auto Renewal Still Continues
If you’ve followed the steps and auto-renewal still happens, try the following:
- Restart your phone after cancellation
- Ensure no multiple plans are active
- Check again via the myMTN App
- Contact MTN Customer Care
MTN Customer Care Options
- Dial 300 from your MTN line
- Use live chat on the official myMTN App
- Reach MTN through their verified social media channels
MTN customer care can manually disable stubborn renewals if needed.
Common Mistakes Users Make
Avoid these errors when trying to option out MTN auto renewal:
- Cancelling only one plan when multiple plans are active
- Ignoring confirmation SMS
- Assuming low airtime stops auto-renewal permanently
- Using outdated USSD codes
Being careful here saves time and money.
How to Confirm MTN Auto Renewal Has Been Successfully Disabled
After opting out, always confirm by:
- Checking SMS confirmation from MTN
- Dialing
*312#to view plan status - Reviewing subscriptions in the myMTN App
If auto-renewal is off, your plan will expire without deduction.
Benefits of Disabling MTN Auto Renewal
Once you fully understand how to option out MTN auto renewal, you gain:
- Full control over airtime spending
- Flexibility to choose better data deals
- No surprise deductions
- Improved budget management
For many users, manual renewal simply makes more financial sense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does cancelling auto-renewal delete my active plan?
No. Your plan remains active until it expires.
Can MTN re-enable auto-renewal automatically?
No, unless you manually subscribe again with auto-renewal enabled.
Is there a charge for cancelling auto-renewal?
No. MTN does not charge for opting out.
Take Control of Your MTN Line Now
If you’re tired of unexpected airtime deductions, now is the time to act. Use the USSD, app, or SMS method explained above and disable MTN auto-renewal today.
Take two minutes now, check your active plans, and stop unwanted renewals before your next balance disappears.
