The short code #BAL# (or #225#) is a free USSD shortcut used by T-Mobile customers to quickly check their account balance and usage directly from their phone’s dialer. It’s a convenient way to get instant account information without needing to open an app or log in to a website.
If you’ve seen this code and wondered what it’s for, this guide will explain exactly what it does, how to use it, and what information you can expect to receive.
What is the #BAL# (#225#) Code?
The #BAL# (#225#) code is a type of “quick code” known as a USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) code. Think of it as a direct text message to your carrier’s computer systems. When you dial it, your phone sends a request to T-Mobile’s network, which then sends back your account information in a simple text-based pop-up on your screen.
It’s designed to be a fast and easy-to-remember alternative to other methods of checking your balance. The number 225 corresponds to the letters B-A-L on a phone’s keypad, making #BAL# a simple mnemonic.
How to Use the #BAL# (#225#) Code (Step-by-Step)
Using the code is incredibly simple and takes only a few seconds.
- Open the Phone app on your T-Mobile device (the same app you use to make calls).
- Go to the keypad/dialer.
- Type in #225# and press the green call/send button.
- Wait a few moments. A message from T-Mobile will pop up on your screen.
What Information Will You See?
The information displayed in the pop-up message depends on whether you have a postpaid (monthly bill) or prepaid account.
- For Postpaid Customers: The message typically shows your current account balance, the due date for your next payment, and the amount of your last payment received.
- For Prepaid Customers: The message will usually show your current prepaid account balance (the amount of money you have available) and the date on which your plan or balance expires.
Note: The exact format and information provided in the message may be updated by T-Mobile over time.
Is Using #BAL# (#225#) Free?
Yes, using the #BAL# code on the T-Mobile network is completely free. It does not use your plan’s minutes or data allowance, and there are no hidden fees associated with checking your balance this way. You can use it as often as you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the #BAL# (#225#) code work for Metro by T-Mobile or Sprint?
Yes. In most cases, this code also works for customers on Metro by T-Mobile and the legacy Sprint network, as they are all part of the T-Mobile family of brands.
Does this code work on Verizon or AT&T?
No. #225# is specific to T-Mobile’s network. Other carriers have their own different USSD codes for checking balances. For example, Verizon uses #BAL (#225) and AT&T uses *BAL# (*225#).
I dialed #225# and got an error message. What should I do?
First, double-check that you typed the code correctly (#225#) and that you have a T-Mobile network connection (not just Wi-Fi). If it still fails, the network might be experiencing a temporary issue. You can always check your balance by using the official My T-Mobile app or by logging into your account on the T-Mobile website.
Are there other useful T-Mobile short codes?
Yes, T-Mobile has several other useful USSD codes. Some of the most common include #932# (#WEB#) to check your data usage for the current cycle and #674# (#MSG#) to check your text message usage.
Conclusion
The #BAL# or #225# code is a fast, free, and easy way for T-Mobile customers to check their account balance directly from their phone’s keypad. Simply dial #225# and press the call button to get an instant on-screen update on your bill or prepaid balance, saving you the time of opening an app or logging into a website.
