Accidentally sending money to the wrong recipient through mobile money services like Airtel Money is a frustrating experience, but it can happen to anyone. Whether it’s due to a typo in the recipient’s phone number or confusion during the transaction process, there are ways to reverse the transfer and recover your funds.
This article will guide you on how to reverse an Airtel Money transaction in Kenya, using two main methods. These options are fast, effective, and offer a level of reassurance if you ever find yourself in this unfortunate situation.
How to Reverse Airtel Money Transaction in Kenya
1. *Using USSD Code 334#
The quickest way to reverse an Airtel Money transaction is through the USSD code *334#, especially if you act immediately after the transaction. Follow these steps based on when the transaction was completed.
For Reversal of Transactions Done Immediately:
- On your phone’s dialer, dial *334#.
- Select Option 8: My account/PIN.
- Choose Option 2: Reverse Transaction.
- Then, select Option 1: Initiate Transaction Reversal.
- Choose the last transaction sent.
- Enter your Airtel Money PIN to confirm and complete the reversal.
For Reversal of Older Transactions:
- On your phone’s dialer, dial *334#.
- Select Option 8: My account/PIN.
- Choose Option 2: Reverse Transaction.
- Select Option 1: Initiate Transaction Reversal.
- This time, select Option 1: Other WSend Transactions.
- Enter the Airtel Money Transaction ID (you can find this in your transaction messages or the Airtel Money app).
- Enter your Airtel Money PIN to complete the reversal process.
2. Reach Out to Airtel Customer Care
If you’re having trouble using the USSD code or prefer to speak to someone, you can reach out to Airtel’s customer care team. This method is effective if the USSD process does not yield immediate results.
- Dial 100 or 0733 100 100 on your phone.
- Choose Airtel Money services from the voice menu.
- Select the Airtel Money Reversal option.
- You will be connected to a customer care agent, who will guide you through the reversal process.
Airtel customer care services are reliable and fast, and you can expect prompt assistance. The call is free of charge.
How to Approve a Reversal Request as the Recipient
If you are the unintended recipient of an Airtel Money transaction, you might receive a request to approve a reversal. Follow these steps to approve the request:
- Dial ** 334#* on your phone.
- Select Option 8: My account/PIN.
- Choose Option 2: Reverse Transaction.
- Select Option 2: Approve/Reject Pending Reversal.
- Choose the transaction to approve.
- Enter your Airtel Money PIN and press OK.
Important Notes:
- For the reversal process to succeed, the funds must still be in the recipient’s account. If the recipient has already used the money or transferred it to another account, the reversal will not go through.
- The reversal process may take up to 48 hours to complete, so patience is required during this period.
Airtel Customer Care Contacts
If you need further assistance, you can contact Airtel customer care through the following:
- Phone: 0733 100 100 or 100
Mistakes during mobile money transactions can be stressful, but with Airtel Money, reversing a wrong transaction is straightforward and secure. By using the USSD code *334# or contacting customer care, you can easily initiate a reversal and recover your money, provided the funds are still intact.