In my experience, I used my boyfriend's refferal code when activating and he received a text the same day of, a few hours after. I however only got the $10 credit on my next renewal. I would ask your friend for more details.. There should not be an e...
If you try to pay it how you normally do it should take off the block. I would suggest getting a new activation too, in order to be able to access your account, as suggested from other users.