Key takeaways
- USSD is the dial-code menu you use on any phone, such as *831#.
- Paybill is a payment number; ours is 7777727.
- Bonus airtime is the extra credit you get on top of what you buy: 2% at TekeTeke.
- Teke Basic, Pro and Elite are plan tiers based on how much you buy.
If you have ever wondered what people mean by USSD, Paybill or a bonus, you are not alone. This page keeps airtime terms explained in plain English, so you can buy airtime with confidence and follow any guide or conversation without getting lost. Bookmark it and return whenever a word trips you up.
Ways to buy: USSD and Paybill
USSD. A way to use your phone by dialling a short code, like *831#, and following a menu on your screen. It works on any phone and does not need you to install anything. For more, see what USSD is.
Dial code. Another name for a USSD code. It usually starts with an asterisk and ends with a hash sign.
Paybill. A payment number you use to pay for something from your phone. TekeTeke's Paybill number is 7777727, and you follow the instructions when you pay. Compare it with USSD in USSD vs Paybill.
Airtime words you will see every day
- Airtime. Prepaid credit that lets you make calls and send SMS. It is different from data bundles, explained in airtime vs data bundles.
- Top-up. Adding airtime to your phone. "Buying airtime" and "topping up" mean the same thing.
- Balance. How much airtime you currently have left.
- Network. The mobile company your SIM belongs to. TekeTeke works with Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom and Faiba.
- Recipient. The phone number that receives the airtime. It can be yours or someone else's.
Money words: bonus, discount and promotion
These three are often mixed up, so here is how they differ.
| Term | What it means | At TekeTeke |
|---|---|---|
| Bonus airtime | Extra airtime added on top of what you buy | 2% on top-ups |
| Bulk discount | A better rate for buying larger amounts | Available on Teke Pro, highest on Teke Elite |
| Promotion | A limited-time offer | Monthly promotions for loyal customers |
Want to see the numbers? The 2% bonus explained shows how it adds up, and the top-up calculator does the maths for you.
Confirmation and account words
- Confirmation. The message that tells you your purchase went through. TekeTeke gives instant transaction confirmation. Keep it for your records.
- Transaction. A single purchase, from the moment you choose an amount to the moment you receive your credit.
- Automated top-up. Airtime that is topped up for you without you having to remember. Available on Teke Pro and Teke Elite.
- Airtime gifting. Sending airtime to someone else as a present. Included in Teke Elite.
- Account manager. A dedicated contact who helps with your account. Included in Teke Elite.
Plan tiers in one glance
A plan tier is simply a level that depends on how much you buy in a purchase.
- Teke Basic: KSh 10 to KSh 1,999, for everyday top-ups.
- Teke Pro: KSh 2,000 to KSh 5,999, with automated top-ups and bulk discounts.
- Teke Elite: KSh 6,000 to KSh 11,000, with airtime gifting, the highest bulk discounts and a dedicated account manager.
Not sure which one is yours? Read how to choose a plan, or view the plans section of our home page.
Now that the jargon is out of the way, buying is easy. Dial *831# on any phone, choose your amount and follow the prompts. If a word still puzzles you, ask our team on +254 713735116 (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM) or on our FAQs section.
Frequently asked questions
What does USSD mean?
USSD is a way to use your phone by dialling a short code, like *831#, and following a menu on the screen. It works on any phone.
What is a Paybill number?
It is a payment number used to pay from your phone. TekeTeke's Paybill number is 7777727.
What is bonus airtime?
It is extra airtime added on top of what you buy. TekeTeke gives 2% bonus airtime on top-ups.
What is the difference between a top-up and a bundle?
A top-up adds airtime for calls and SMS, while a data bundle is for internet use. They are different things.
Ready to top up?
Dial *831# to buy airtime on any major network, free of charge, with 2% bonus airtime.
