How to reverse an MTN mobile money transfer?

Key takeaways

• MTN Ghana offers two ways to reverse a MoMo transaction: through the USSD code (*170#) or by contacting MTN Customer Care at 100.
• The reversal process may take up to 15 working days to complete.
• Reversals are not possible if initiated after 30 days or if the recipient has already used the money.

Mistakes happen—you might accidentally send money via MTN mobile money (MoMo) to the wrong person or enter an incorrect amount. Fortunately, you can reverse such transactions easily. We’ll walk you through the steps in this simple guide.

How to reverse an MTN MoMo transaction?

Here are three methods to promptly recover your funds after a wrong MoMo transaction:

Method #1 – Using the USSD code

The USSD code is the most convenient method. Here’s how:

1. Dial *170#.

2. Select option 6 for My wallet.

3. Choose Report Fraud.

4. Choose New Reversal Process.

5. Enter the recipient’s number (the number you sent money to).

6. Choose Yes to confirm you transferred the money.

7. Enter the amount transferred.

8. Enter the date of the transaction.

You’ll receive a prompt and SMS from MTN confirming that your report has been received. If the investigations are successful, further details via SMS will be sent to you.

Note: While the method above works, it’s not the appropriate solution. MTN recommends reaching out to their customer care directly (method #2) to lodge a formal complaint for the best resolution.

Method #2 – Contacting MTN customer care

If the USSD method doesn’t work for you or you prefer personal assistance, contacting MTN customer care is an excellent alternative. Here’s the easiest way to speak with an agent:

1. Dial 100.
2. Select your preferred language (English, Twi, Ewe, Ga, etc.).
3. Select option 3 for Mobile Money.
4. Choose option 1 for information on Mobile Money.
5. Press (*) to speak to a customer care agent.
6. Provide the agent with the necessary details, such as:

• • mobile number used for the transaction
  • recipient’s number
  • date and time of the transaction
  • exact amount sent
  • transaction ID

7. After the call, you’ll receive an SMS confirming your complaint.

You now have to wait till the complaint is resolved.

Method #3 – Call the number

Sometimes, the simplest solution is to contact the recipient directly and request a refund. This method depends on the recipient’s willingness to cooperate but can save time if they haven’t already spent the money. Be sure to explain the situation calmly, politely, and respectfully and request a refund.

How long does the reversal process take?

MTN takes up to 15 working days to process your request since they must investigate the issue thoroughly before taking action.

If the recipient has withdrawn the money, MTN may also have to wait until the recipient deposits funds back into their account before they can complete the reversal.

Thus, prompt action is essential once you realize you’ve made a mistake.

When is a transaction not reversible?

Not all MoMo transactions are reversible, often due to factors beyond MTN’s control or the recipient’s conduct. Situations where reversal isn’t possible include:

• The time duration (30 calendar days) for reversal has expired.
• The recipient has already used part or all of the money, and their MoMo wallet has no remaining balance.
• MTN Ghana is not obligated to perform a reversal in case of a dispute with the recipient.

FAQs

Can I reverse a MoMo transfer payment?

No, MTN mobile money transfer payments to service providers like ECG, Ghana Water, etc., are irreversible. You can only reverse peer-to-peer transactions.

Can I reverse a MoMo transaction with a bank?

Reversing an MTN mobile money transaction with a bank isn’t straightforward. In such situations, it is important to contact MTN customer service for help.

Conclusion

While mobile money offers a convenient way to transfer money, mistakes like sending money to the wrong person can be stressful to rectify.

Always double-check the recipient’s number and amount before sending the money to avoid the hassle of reversals. Confirming these details can save you a lot of trouble.

Feel free to share your questions and comments below.