How to Reactivate Your Airtel Prepaid SIM Card Deactivated Due to Non-Usage

Deactivating a prepaid SIM card after 3 months of non-usage can be frustrating, but there are steps you can follow to reactivate it. In this guide, we will walk you through the process, providing information on different methods and tips to ensure a smooth reactivation.

Understanding SIM Deactivation

When your Airtel prepaid SIM card is deactivated due to non-usage, it means that no services are active on your number. However, depending on whether your SIM card or the mobile number itself is deactivated, different actions will be required to reactivate it.

Reactivation Methods

There are two primary ways to reactivate your Airtel prepaid SIM card:

Contact Airtel Customer Care

Calling Airtel customer care is one of the easiest ways to reactivate your SIM card. You have 24/7 access to their services via phone or email.

Call Airtel's customer care number: This is a straightforward method. Make sure you have a stable internet connection if you opt for an email address. Email the customer care team: [email protected]. Attach any necessary documents if required and provide all the necessary details.

Visit an Airtel Store

Another option is to visit your nearest Airtel store. Staff members there will guide you through the reactivation process.

Prepare the necessary documents: Bring your identification such as an address or photo ID proof with you when you visit the store. Fill out a reactivation form: The store staff will provide you with a form to complete. Submit the form: Once your form is filled out, submit it to the store. The staff will process your request for reactivation.

Important: Carrying the right identification documents is crucial for a smooth reactivation process.

Personal Experience and Tips

Based on my personal experience, here are some additional tips that may be helpful:

Reactivating a SIM Card with Recent Recharge

I attempted to re-establish services on my Airtel SIM card, which was last recharged 145 days ago, by visiting a store. Initially, I called the number to see if it was assigned to someone else. The phone disconnected immediately without any error message.

I then recharged the SIM card with the minimum plan (Rs 155), and to my surprise, it activated within moments.

This experience suggests that if you can recharge your SIM card after the deactivation, it may reactivate immediately. However, if your mobile number has been deactivated for non-use, it cannot be restored.

FAQs

Can I get a new SIM card without an initial recharge?

Yes, if only the SIM card has been deactivated and the number is still active, you can obtain a new SIM card from an Airtel showroom and be charged Rs 50 for it.

What happens if my mobile number is deactivated?

If your mobile number is deactivated due to non-use, it is not possible to restore the number. You would need to purchase a new SIM card from Airtel.

Note: My personal verification was conducted in April 2023.

Additional Resources

For further information, you may find these guides helpful:

How to Reactivate a Deactivated Airtel Prepaid SIM Card How to Reactivate your Deactivated Airtel Number - Infofru A Complete Guide on Blocking Your Prepaid SIM Card