How to check your BVN is something every Nigerian who uses a bank should know. The BVN (Bank Verification Number) is an 11 digit number that is like an ID card for your bank accounts.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) introduced the BVN to reduce fraud and make banking safer for everyone. If you have a bank account in Nigeria you must have a BVN.
Checking your BVN is important for many reasons. You might need it when filling forms, applying for loans or even signing up for government programs.
One thing i love about this entire process is that you can check your BVN in simple ways and most of the time you don’t need to visit your bank.
Here we will show you the easiest ways to check your BVN. We will also show you how to keep your BVN safe and answer some of the questions people ask about BVN. Whether you are using a mobile phone, bank app or need help from your bank, we got you covered.
How to Check Your BVN: Quick and Simple Methods
You can check your BVN in several ways. Below are the steps.
1. USSD Code
The easiest and fastest way to check your BVN is to dial a code on your mobile phone. This method is very popular and widely used because it works on all types of mobile phones including those that don’t have internet. It’s a good option for those who need to check their BVN quickly without going online or to the bank.
Steps:
- Dial *5650# on Your Phone:
First, dial *5650# on your mobile phone. Make sure you are using the same phone number you used to register for your BVN. This is very important because the code will only work with the phone number you used when you first registered for your BVN. - Ensure You Have Enough Airtime:
Before you dial the code, make sure you have at least ₦20 on your phone. The ₦20 is a service charge that applies every time you use this method to retrieve your BVN. This fee is deducted from your mobile credit balance so ensure your account has enough balance to cover the charge. - Wait for the Response:
Once you dial the code, you will get a response from the service with your BVN displayed on the screen. This will take a few seconds depending on your network. The BVN will be displayed as a series of numbers, take note of it. - Write It Down:
After you get your BVN, make sure to save it in a safe and secure place. You can write it down in a personal notebook or store it in a secure digital location so you can easily retrieve it whenever you need it in the future. Having your BVN with you is necessary for many banking and financial transactions in Nigeria.
2. Check Through Your Bank’s Mobile App
Another way to check your BVN is through your bank’s mobile app. Many Nigerian banks now have mobile banking apps that allow you to access many services including your BVN. This is especially good for those with smartphones and stable internet, as you can do it from the comfort of your home or anywhere you have internet.
Steps:
- Download Your Bank’s App:
If you don’t already have your bank’s app, the first step is to download it. You can find your bank’s app in the Google Play Store (for Android devices) or the Apple App Store (for iOS devices). Just search for your bank’s name and download the official app. Make sure you download the official app from your bank to be safe. - Log In to Your Account:
After downloading the app, open it and log in with your username and password. Be sure to keep your login credentials safe. If you forgot your password, most apps have a recovery option to reset it. - Go to Your Profile or Account Details:
Once logged in, go to the section of the app where your account details or profile information is stored. Many banking apps have a section called “Profile,” “Account Settings” or “My Details.” Look for a sub section or tab that has your BVN information. Some banks might have it labeled as “BVN” or “My Profile.” - View Your BVN:
Once you find the BVN section, you can view your BVN. It will be displayed on the screen and you can copy or note it down for future use.
3. Visit Your Bank
If you prefer to speak to someone or have issues with the above methods, you can visit your bank branch to check your BVN.
Steps:
- Go to the Customer Service Desk
- Tell the bank staff you want to retrieve your BVN.
- Provide Identification
- You might need to show an ID or answer questions to verify your identity.
- Get Your BVN
- Once verified, the bank staff will give you your BVN.
Notes:
- This is good if you forgot the phone number linked to your BVN.
- Or if you don’t have a mobile phone
4. Check Your Bank Statement
Your BVN is sometimes included in your bank statement. This is another easy way to find it.
Steps:
- Get a Bank Statement
- You can get a printed copy at the bank or an emailed copy through internet banking.
- Check the Details Section
- Look for the part of the statement that shows your account details. Your BVN will be there.
- Save the BVN
- Once you find it, write it down or save the document.
5. Use Customer Service
Banks also allow customers to get their BVN through their customer care line.
Steps:
- Call Your Bank’s Customer Care Number
- Use the number provided by your bank.
- Verify Yourself
- Be prepared to answer questions about your account to prove you are the owner.
- Get Your BVN
- The customer service will give you your BVN after verifying you.
Why is Your BVN Important?
BVN is more than just a number. Here are some reasons why:
- Protects Against Fraud
- Only you can access your accounts. BVN prevents unauthorized access and identity theft.
- Needed for Banking Services
- You can’t apply for loans, open new accounts or use some banking services without your BVN. Many banks require your BVN before processing some requests.
- Links All Your Accounts
- If you have accounts in different banks, they are all linked to your BVN. So you can monitor all your accounts and activities from one identity.
- Used for Government Programs
- Programs like N-Power and other financial aid programs require your BVN for registration. BVN is used to confirm your identity and ensure the program benefits go to the right people.
How to Keep Your BVN Safe
Keeping your BVN safe is very important because criminals can use it to try to access your accounts. Follow these tips to protect your BVN:
- Don’t Share Your BVN with Strangers
- Only give your BVN to trusted people or organizations. If someone calls or emails you asking for it, make sure the request is from a trusted source, your bank.
- Verify Requests
- If someone asks for your BVN, make sure it’s from a legit source like your bank or a government organization. Be careful if the request is via email or text message.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi
- Don’t check your BVN or log into banking apps on public Wi-Fi to avoid hackers who can steal your info. Always use a secure and private internet connection.
- Monitor Your Accounts
- Check your bank accounts regularly for any suspicious transactions. If you see anything unusual, report it to your bank immediately.
- Passwords
- Use strong passwords. Not easily guessed and change often.
BVN Issues
You may encounter problems when checking your BVN. Below are the common issues and how to fix them:
1. BVN Not Found
If the code doesn’t work or you don’t get your BVN, it might be because your phone number is not linked to your BVN. Go to your bank to update your details.
2. Wrong BVN on Bank Statement
If you see an error in your BVN, contact your bank immediately. They will investigate and correct it to get the right number registered.
3. Can’t Check Through the App
Sometimes banks may have issues with their mobile apps. If you can’t check your BVN through the app, you can try another method, such as calling customer service or using the USSD code.
FAQs
1. Can I Check My BVN for Free?
No, using the USSD code (5650#) costs ₦20. But using your bank’s app or bank statement is free.
2. Can I Use a Friend’s Phone to Check My BVN?
No, the phone number used must be the one linked to your BVN.
3. Can I Have Two BVNs?
No, one BVN per individual. It links all your bank accounts together.
4. Is It Safe to Check My BVN Online?
Yes, but use official apps or websites only. Don’t use untrusted platforms to check or share your BVN.
5. What if I Forget the Phone Number Linked to My BVN?
If you forget the phone number linked to your BVN, go to your bank with an ID. They will help you retrieve your BVN after verifying your identity.
Summary
Now you know how to check your BVN. Whether you use the USSD code (5650#), your bank’s app or visit your bank, checking your BVN is easy. Keep your BVN safe and secure.
Go ahead and check your BVN now!