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| How to Remove Auto Renewal on Airtel |
Learn how to remove auto renewal on Airtel using USSD, SMS, Airtel Thanks app, and customer care. Stop unwanted charges easily.
If Airtel keeps deducting airtime or data automatically, you’re not alone. Many subscribers search for how to remove auto renewal on Airtel because recurring deductions can quickly drain airtime and data without notice.
This up-to-date 2026 guide explains every official method to stop Airtel auto-renewal safely—USSD codes, SMS options, the Airtel Thanks app, and customer support—while helping you avoid common mistakes.
What Is Auto Renewal on Airtel?
Auto renewal is a feature that automatically renews your data, voice, or value-added subscription when it expires, provided you have enough airtime or balance.
While convenient, it can become a problem when:
- You forget the plan is active
- Airtel renews a plan you no longer use
- You want full control over spending
Understanding how auto renewal works is the first step to stopping it.
Why Airtel Auto Renews Your Subscription
Airtel enables auto renewal by default on many plans to ensure uninterrupted service. This includes:
- Data bundles
- Talktime offers
- Combo and smart plans
- Some third-party value-added services
Once activated, the system automatically charges your line unless you turn it off manually.
How to Remove Auto Renewal on Airtel Using USSD (Most Reliable Method)
The USSD method works on all phones and does not require internet access.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Dial *312# on your Airtel line
- Select My Subscriptions / Data Plans
- Choose Manage Plan or Auto Renewal Settings
- Select Cancel Auto Renewal
- Confirm your choice
You’ll receive a confirmation message once auto renewal is disabled.
This is the fastest and most reliable method for most Airtel users in Nigeria.
How to Stop Airtel Auto Renewal via SMS
For some Airtel plans, SMS cancellation is supported.
General SMS Method
- Send STOP to the short code associated with your active plan
You’ll receive a reply confirming the cancellation if the service supports SMS opt-out.
If SMS doesn’t work, switch to the USSD or app method.
How to Remove Auto Renewal on Airtel Using the Airtel Thanks App
The Airtel Thanks app gives you full control over subscriptions.
Steps
- Open the Airtel Thanks App
- Log in with your Airtel number
- Go to My Plans or Subscriptions
- Select the active plan
- Toggle Auto Renewal OFF
- Confirm
This method is ideal for users who prefer visual control and real-time updates.
Airtel officially recommends the app for managing plans and subscriptions.
How to Cancel Auto Renewal for Airtel Data Plans Specifically
Airtel data plans are the most common cause of auto deductions.
Popular data plans with auto renewal
- Daily data plans
- Weekly bundles
- Monthly Smart Plans
- Unlimited or combo data plans
To stop renewal:
- Use *312#
- Manage the specific data plan
- Disable renewal before expiry
Always confirm cancellation to avoid unexpected charges.
How to Remove Auto Renewal on Airtel for Value-Added Services (VAS)
Some deductions come from services like:
- Caller tunes
- Entertainment subscriptions
- Alerts and promotions
To stop VAS auto renewal
- Dial *305# (Airtel VAS management code)
- View active services
- Select the service
- Cancel or deactivate
This is especially important if you notice small but frequent deductions.
How to Confirm Auto Renewal Is Successfully Disabled
After cancellation, always confirm.
You can:
- Wait for a confirmation SMS
- Dial *312# and check subscription status
- Use the Airtel Thanks app to verify
If auto renewal still shows active, repeat the process or use a different method.
Common Problems When Trying to Remove Auto Renewal on Airtel
1. Auto Renewal Keeps Coming Back
This usually happens when:
- You repurchase the same plan
- You activate a promo with default renewal enabled
Always check renewal status after buying a plan.
2. No Confirmation Message
Network delays can occur. Recheck via USSD or the app after a few minutes.
3. Airtime Still Deducted
This may be from:
- Another active subscription
- Value-added services
- Loan repayments
Check all active services, not just data plans.
How to Prevent Auto Renewal in the Future
To avoid future issues:
- Always disable auto renewal immediately after buying a plan
- Avoid one-click promotions without checking settings
- Review subscriptions weekly
- Use the Airtel Thanks app for visibility
These habits save money and reduce frustration.
Is Auto Renewal Mandatory on Airtel?
No. Auto renewal is optional.
Airtel allows users to:
- Enable it for convenience
- Disable it anytime without penalty
This aligns with consumer protection guidelines supported by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
Security and Consumer Protection Tips
- Never share OTPs or USSD prompts
- Avoid clicking unknown promo links
- Report unauthorized deductions immediately
Airtel provides official support channels to resolve billing concerns.
When to Contact Airtel Customer Care
If all methods fail:
- Call 111 from your Airtel line
- Visit an Airtel service center
- Use in-app chat support
Customer care can manually disable stubborn subscriptions.
Stop unwanted Airtel deductions now by dialing *312# and disabling auto renewal in under two minutes.
Conclusion
Knowing how to remove auto renewal on Airtel gives you full control over your airtime and data spending. Whether you use USSD, SMS, the Airtel Thanks app, or customer care, the process is simple once you know the right steps.
Take a moment today to review your subscriptions, turn off auto renewal you don’t need, and enjoy stress-free Airtel usage. For more Airtel tips, data management guides, and USSD codes, explore our related articles and stay informed.
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