Why Have I Received an Upfront Payment Request from MTN?: If you've received an SMS, email, or WhatsApp message from MTN requesting an upfront payment for your contract application, don't worry. This is a standard step in the activation process for certain new postpaid contracts. The information below explains why you've received the request and what to do next.
Why have I received an upfront payment request from MTN?: You have received this notification because your contract application requires an upfront payment before the service can be activated and fulfilled. The upfront payment is equal to your first month's subscription fee.
What is an upfront payment?: An upfront payment is a once-off payment made before your new postpaid contract is activated. The amount is equivalent to your first month's subscription fee.
Does the upfront payment replace my monthly bill?: No. The upfront payment covers your first month's subscription only. Your future monthly bills and payments will continue through the normal billing process.
Is the WhatsApp payment request legitimate?: Yes. MTN may send payment requests through approved channels such as WhatsApp, SMS, or email, depending on the sales journey and channel used to apply for the contract.
How do I make the upfront payment?: Depending on the channel through which you applied, payment can be made using:
• A secure payment link sent via WhatsApp, SMS, or email.
• A MoMo Point of Sale device in-store.
Will I still undergo credit vetting?: Yes. Existing credit vetting requirements remain unchanged. Receiving an upfront payment request does not replace the normal credit assessment process.
Does the upfront payment affect how I pay for my contract in the future?: No. Once the upfront payment has been made, your future invoices, debit orders, or card payments will continue as normal according to your selected billing method.
Does the upfront payment include SIM and connection fees?: No. SIM and connection fees may still apply at activation, where applicable.
Which customers does the upfront payment apply to?: The upfront payment applies to new Mobile and Home contracts where a new billing profile is being created.
What happens if I do not make the upfront payment?: Your contract cannot be activated and fulfilled until the required upfront payment has been successfully received.
What happens after I make the payment?: Once your payment has been successfully processed, MTN will continue with the activation and fulfilment of your contract application.
How will my monthly payments work after activation?: Monthly payments will continue according to your selected billing arrangement. For new contract billing profiles, MTN uses approved billing and collection dates designed to provide smoother and more reliable payment processing.