How to Check Your Bank Verification Number (BVN)

To check your BVN, dial *565*0# on your phone.

Your BVN is tied to every bank account you own in Nigeria. It’s one of those numbers you don’t think about until you suddenly need it.

Maybe you’re trying to open a new bank account, KYC, or recover a blocked account. Then comes the prompt instructing you to enter your BVN, just like that, and you’re lost.

You start checking your old messages, dig through emails, and scroll through your note app, hoping you saved it somewhere.

But you can avoid the stress by knowing the simple process it takes to check your Bank Verification Number (BVN).

Before we jump into it, let’s take a brief look to understand what BVN is and its importance.

What is a BVN?

Just in case you’re wondering, your Bank Verification Number is an 11-digit unique identifier linked to your biometric data, which includes your photo and date of birth. Think of it as your digital ID in Nigeria’s financial system.

Introduced in 2014 by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in partnership with the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), the BVN was designed to reduce fraud and improve identity management across all Nigerian banks.

Once you register at any bank, it becomes tied to every bank account you open, and it’s a one-time identity solution that follows you everywhere in the financial space.

Why you Need A BVN

Your BVN isn’t just another number; it’s a critical part of how banking works in Nigeria today. It plays a major role in keeping your financial identity safe, especially as digital transactions become more common.

Here’s why it is important:

1. Fraud Prevention: With your BVN linked to your fingerprint and photo, it’s much harder for someone to impersonate you or open multiple bank accounts with fake names. It helps banks verify who you really are and flags suspicious activity faster.
2. One Identity Across All Banks: Having accounts in one or five different banks doesn’t mean you have a different number for each one , your BVN ties them all together under your name. No need to repeat the registration process; you’re already covered.
3. Access to Financial Services: From opening new accounts to applying for loans or government aid, your verification number is often the first requirement. It’s what gives you access to services that go beyond everyday banking.
4. Security for Account Recovery: If you ever get locked out of your account or lose access to your phone number, your BVN becomes your backup for verifying your identity and getting back in.
5. Meets CBN Regulations: Banks are required to use it as part of Know-Your-Customer (KYC) standards. It keeps the entire financial system more transparent and accountable.

How to Check Your BVN (Step-by-Step)

Retrieving it is simple, as long as you have access to the phone number linked to your bank account. Here are the most common and reliable ways to check:

 Using a USSD Code

The fastest and easiest way is through a USSD code.

• Dial *565*0# on your phone.

• Make sure you’re using the phone number registered during enrollment.
• Follow the instructions (input your DD/MM/YY) to check.
• Your 11-digit number will appear on your screen within seconds.

 Note: The service works across all major networks—MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile.

 Through the NIBSS Portal

If you prefer to check online, the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) has an official portal:

• Visit NIBSS website
• Enter your first name, last name, date of birth, and the phone number linked to your profile.
• Pay a ₦20 verification fee.
• Once payment goes through, the number will be displayed.

 Call the Helpdesk

You can also contact the NIBSS Helpdesk:

• Call the toll-free number: 0700-CALL-NIBSS (0700-2255-266)
• Or email: bvn@nibss-plc.com.ng
• Have the following details ready:

          Full name, date of birth and Registered phone number

• They’ll guide you through the verification process.

Alternatively, Visit Your Bank

 Walk into any branch with a valid means of identification. A customer service rep will help you retrieve it after confirming your identity.

How to Keep Your BVN Safe

Your BVN is a powerful tool, but in the wrong hands, it could expose you to fraud or identity theft. That’s why safeguarding it is just as important as knowing how to check it.

1. Don’t share it carelessly: Avoid sending your BVN through WhatsApp, SMS, or email, especially to unknown contacts. If someone isn’t your bank or a verified financial provider, they don’t need your BVN.
2. Watch out for fake links and websites: scammers often mimic bank websites or send fake forms asking for your BVN. Always double-check URLs, and never submit your details unless you’re sure it’s legit.
3. Ignore random BVN verification requests: Your bank won’t ask for your BVN out of the blue. If you get a suspicious call, hang up and call your bank directly using the official number.
4. Secure your phone line: Since your BVN is linked to your phone number, losing your SIM card to fraudsters can give them a doorway into your financial life. Keep your line secure with a PIN and report a stolen SIM immediately.
5. Don’t write it down in obvious places: As tempting as it is to jot it down somewhere “safe,” don’t store your BVN in your phone notes or in a notebook anyone can access.

How to Enroll for BVN

• Walk into any bank branch with a valid form of identification.
• Request for enrollment slip from the customer service desk.
• Fill it with all necessary information.
• Do your biometric data capturing.
• After that you will be given an acknowledgment slip.
• Your 11-digit number will be sent to the phone number you registered with after 24 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I check my BVN without the phone number I used to register?

No, you need access to the registered phone number to check it via USSD. If you’ve lost the number, visit your bank or use the NIBSS online portal.

Can I register for BVN online?

No, BVN enrollment must be done in person because it requires biometric data capture (your fingerprint and facial photo).

Can I get another BVN number?

No, you’re only allowed to have one BVN for life. If you forget it, dial *565*0# to check or visit your bank to retrieve it.

In Conclusion

Your BVN is more than just a number; it’s your identity in the Nigerian banking system. Knowing how to retrieve and protect it saves you stress, time, and potential risk.

Use any of the available methods to check it when needed, and always keep it secure. Avoid sharing it with untrusted sources.

As digital banking continues to grow, your BVN will remain a key that unlocks countless financial services. Treat it like your ATM PIN.

More Articles to Read

• OPay USSD Codes Updated (2025): Check Balance, Transfers, Airtime, and More
• How To Transfer Money From UBA To All Banks
• Hold, Sell, and Manage Crypto Like a Pro with Dtunes 2.0