Alright, picture this – you have to fill out that government form, open or upgrade your business account or personal bank account, or fill out a financial-related form.

Here’s the challenge; you need to input your BVN and you might not remember the first digit let alone all 11 digits.

I understand this and can help you out.

Let’s explore what a BVN is, how to check bvn, and why you may need to check it. 

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What is a Bank Verification Number (BVN)?

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On the 14th of February, 2014, the Central Bank of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), introduced the concept of the BVN. It is an 11-digit number used to identify all customers of financial institutions in Nigeria. 

This means that your BVN is the number attached to your financial accounts that your bank can use to identify you as a customer. Like your National Identification Number (NIN), your BVN is linked to your biometric information, including date of birth, full name, and contact details. 

These details are captured when registering your BVN at any bank or verified registration center. The aim of creating the BVN is to improve financial security through banking in the country by preventing financial crimes and fraud nationwide. 

How to Check for your BVN Number

If you need to retrieve your BVN to access an essential financial process quickly, here are some simple steps.

1. Dial the USSD code to check your BVN

You can check your BVN by simply dialing the code *565*0# using the phone number you used to register your BVN. By following the prompts displayed after you dial the code, your BVN will be displayed on your mobile device for a service fee of N20. The method is fast and doesn’t require any internet connection. 

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2. The Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) Website

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With a vision to be the leading provider of innovative financial services in Nigeria, the NIBSS website provides a BVN lookup tool to enable you to verify and retrieve your information. You can check your BVN through the NIBSS website by following these steps;

• Visit the NIBSS website on your mobile device or computer
• Input your name and date of birth
• Type in the phone number linked to your BVN
• Click on “Submit.”
• Choose your desired payment option and pay the required verification fee of N20.

Once your payment is successful, you will see the verified BVN displayed on your screen. Do well to take a screenshot or write it down in a safe place.

3. Contacting the BVN Helpdesk

Another simple way of retrieving your BVN is by contacting the BVN helpdesk through their toll-free number – 0700-2255-226 or email – [email protected]. Ensure you provide the correct details, such as your full name, date of birth, email address, and phone number linked to your BVN. 

Once they verify your details, you’ll receive your BVN details from the comfort of your current location.

4. Go to a National Identity Management Commission Office (NIMC)

If you have registered for your National Identification Number and have your ID details, you can visit any NIMC office. By providing them with your correct information, they can assist you in retrieving your BVN quickly.

How to Check your BVN on MTN, GLO, Airtel and 9Mobile

Whether you’re using MTN, GLO, Airtel, or 9Mobile, you can check your BVN using the following steps:

• Dial the code *565*0# on the phone number you used to register for your BVN
• Confirm that you agree to the prompted N20 fee
• Input your transaction pin
• Your BVN is displayed on your screen.

With the same code number, you can check your BVN across the network service providers in Nigeria. The best part is that you don’t need to be connected to the internet. With just N20 naira, your digits get displayed.

Why do you Need a Bank Verification Number?

As a Nigerian citizen, your BVN is your secret identity to access innovative banking financial services. Here are some reasons you will have to check it;

• To Verify your Identity: Banks like Moniepoint Microfinance Bank require you to verify your identity when opening new accounts, upgrading your KYC levels, or performing transactions. By providing a valid BVN, you are cleared to perform your desired financial operations.
• For Security Purposes and Fraud Prevention: Your BVN is your unique banking identification number, which the CBN put in place to ensure that your account is not susceptible to fraudsters. If you notice suspicious activities on your bank accounts, contact your customer representative to cross-check using your BVN.
• Changes in Personal Information: If you undergo a vital change in your details, such as your name, biometric data, and contact information, you will need your BVN to complete the required forms.
• Linking Different Accounts: In cases where you have different bank accounts and wish to link them, you must provide your BVN to do so successfully.
• Loan Application: When you apply for a loan or credit service, the lender may require your BVN to verify your identity and facilitate the process.
• Payment and Beneficiary Verification: In most cases, NGOs or governments may require your BVN to process payments or verify beneficiaries. It can occur in grant applications, social welfare programmes, etc, and your BVN is a qualifying factor to access such payments.
• Account Recovery and Emergencies: If you need to recover your blocked or lost account, you’ll need to verify your identity by providing specific details, including your BVN.

Final Words

Ultimately, your BVN allows you to access unlimited financial operations in the Nigerian banking sector.

Thankfully, in case you forget it, you can always check it through the USSD code, NIBSS website and other helpful means listed in this article. 

Finally, keep your BVN details secure and never share them on public and unverified platforms so that you don’t get duped or scammed.