The Telkom Please Call Me service allows you to send a free callback request to another mobile number when you have no airtime or data. The recipient receives a message with your number asking them to call you back.
Telkom Please Call Me USSD Code (Current Year)
The USSD Code
The Telkom Please Call Me USSD code is: *140*[recipient’s phone number]#
Format: *140*07XXXXXXXX#
For example: *140*0811234567#
How to Send a Please Call Me on Telkom
Method 1: Direct Code (Recommended)
Step 1: Open your phone’s dialer app.
Step 2: Dial *140* followed by the recipient’s 10-digit phone number (including the area code).
Step 3: End with # and press the call/send button.
Example: *140*0812345678# then press call.
Method 2: Via the Menu System
If you cannot remember the exact format, use this alternative method:
Step 1: Dial *140# and press send.
Step 2: A menu will appear with options related to the Please Call Me service.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen prompts to enter the recipient’s number and send the request.
Note: The *140# method is an alternative way to access the service and may provide additional options or confirmation messages.
Important Information and Limitations
Daily Limit: Telkom allows you to send up to ten Please Call Me messages per day.
Network Restriction: Some sources indicate that for the Please Call Me to work optimally, the recipient should ideally also be on the Telkom network. However, cross-network sends are generally possible.
Blocking Service: If you are receiving unwanted Please Call Me messages, you can contact Telkom customer service to enquire about blocking the service on your line.
Free Service: The Please Call Me service is free and does not consume airtime or data. It is designed for use when you have insufficient credit to make a call.
Complete Code Format Summary
| Purpose | USSD Code |
|---|---|
| Please Call Me (Direct) | 14007XXXXXXXX# |
| Please Call Me (Menu) | *140# |
| Balance Enquiry | *188# |
| Main Menu | *180# |
| Find Your Own Number | *1# |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Telkom Please Call Me work internationally?
A: The Please Call Me service is primarily designed for South African mobile numbers. Sending a Please Call Me request to an international number may not work.
Q: Why is my Please Call Me not being delivered?
A: Possible reasons include:
– You have reached the daily limit of ten messages
– The recipient’s number is entered incorrectly
– The recipient has blocked Please Call Me messages on their line
– There is a temporary network issue
Q: Can I send a Please Call Me from a Telkom number to another network (Vodacom, MTN, Cell C)?
A: Yes, the Please Call Me service generally works across all South African networks. Recipients on Vodacom, MTN, and Cell C should receive your request, though delivery times may vary.
Q: Is there an app alternative?
A: Yes, there are third-party apps available on the Google Play Store that can help you manage and send Please Call Me requests across all networks without needing to remember USSD codes.
Q: What other USSD codes does Telkom offer?
A: Telkom provides several useful USSD codes for managing your account. Use *188# to check your airtime balance. Use *180# to access the main Telkom master menu. Use *1# to display your own phone number.
Additional Telkom USSD Codes Reference
| Service | USSD Code |
|---|---|
| Airtime Balance | *188# |
| Main Menu | *180# |
| Find My Number | *1# |
| Recharge Airtime | 188VoucherNumber# |
| Send Airtime | *180# (then select Transfer Airtime) |
| Data Purchase | *180# (then follow prompts) |
Disclaimer: USSD codes are provided for informational purposes and are subject to change by Telkom South Africa. Always verify current codes on the official Telkom website if you experience issues.