Glo Recharge Codes and PIN Entry (*311*)
| 1 | Scratch the panel on the card gently to reveal the PIN. |
| 2 | Dial *311*, type the PIN, then press #. |
| 3 | Press call and wait for the response on the screen. |
| 4 | Wait for the confirmation SMS. |
| 5 | Dial *310# to see the new balance. |
Recharging a Glo line is simple when you enter the code correctly, and surprisingly annoying when you do not. Most failed recharges come from a typing slip, a damaged card or a card that was already used. A little knowledge about the format of the code saves time and money.
This article explains how the recharge code is built, how to enter it without mistakes, what the common error messages mean and how to deal with cards that will not load. As always, if a code format changes, the pack or the Glo menu will show the current one.
How the recharge code is built
The format is the start code *311*, then your PIN, then the hash sign. The PIN is the long number hidden under the scratch panel. There are no spaces. If your phone adds spaces when you paste, remove them.
| Part | What it is | Common slip |
|---|---|---|
| *311* | Start of the recharge code | Typing *310* by mistake, which is a balance check |
| PIN | The number under the scratch panel | Swapped or missing digits |
| # | Ends the code | Forgetting it |
Enter the code without mistakes
- Type slowly and check each group of digits before you press call.
- Hold the card in good light so smudged digits are clear.
- Do not scratch hard enough to damage the digits.
- Avoid pasting from a photo, because the text recognition may change a digit.
- Write the PIN down on paper first if you struggle to read it.
Recharge for another number
To load a card onto a friend’s line, use the method that Glo gives for recharging another number, which is stated on the pack or in the menu. If you are unsure, load the card onto your own line and then use the proper transfer method. Do not guess a code format for another number, because errors can send credit to the wrong line.
What the responses mean
The card has been loaded. Check *310# to see the new balance.
One or more digits are wrong. Re-check the number against the card.
The card has been loaded before. Take it back to the seller with proof of purchase.
This is often a short network issue. Wait a few minutes and try again.
Repeated wrong entries can block the card for a while. Wait before trying again and then enter the PIN carefully.
If the card will not load
- Check the digits again slowly.
- Try again after a few minutes in case of a network delay.
- Restart the phone and try once more.
- Move to a spot with a better signal.
- Take the card, the pack and your proof of purchase to the seller or a Glo centre.
Avoid fake or used cards
Buy cards from shops that you trust. Check that the panel is not already scratched and that the card has not been tampered with. If a seller hands you a card with a scratched panel, refuse it. After you buy, load the card before you leave the shop so that any problem can be settled on the spot.
Other ways to recharge
- The Glo Café app, using a bank card or transfer.
- Your bank’s own app or USSD menu, where airtime purchase is offered.
- An agent with a POS terminal.
- Online payment pages run by Glo.
Check your balance after recharge
After the confirmation SMS, dial *310# for airtime and *323# for data. If a bonus applied, it should appear in one of them. Keep the card until you see the new balance, in case support needs to check it.
Questions people ask
No. A card works once.
Cards can have an expiry date printed on them. Load yours before then.
Check for a delay, check you read the right balance and then report with the PIN details.
Avoid sharing it. Anyone who sees the PIN can use it.
Wrap up
The recharge code is easy to use once you know its three parts. Type it slowly, wait for the SMS, check your balance and keep the card until everything is confirmed.