How To Check Bank Verification Number (BVN) in 2024

Your Bank Verification Number (BVN) is essential for performing secure transactions in Nigeria. Your BVN is a unique 11-digit ID that connects you to your financial information across all Nigerian banks. This number was created to protect customers against fraud. 

If you need to confirm your BVN or have misplaced it, there are quick ways to retrieve it. In this article, I’ll walk you through five straightforward methods to check your BVN. Let’s get started!

What is a Bank Verification Number (BVN)?

The BVN was introduced in 2014 by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to create a secure system for identifying customers in Nigerian banks. This 11-digit number acts as a universal ID for all your bank accounts, ensuring that only you can access your financial information. Not only does the BVN make transactions safer, but it also simplifies the process of accessing banking services across Nigeria.

5 Ways to Check Your Bank Verification Number (BVN)

There are multiple ways to check your BVN, and most of them make the process quick and easy. They are:

1. Using the BVN validation portal
2. Checking via mobile network
3. Checking your BVN enrollment slip
4. Through your bank’s mobile app
5. Visiting the bank

Let’s take a look at the steps involved in each method. 

1. How to Check BVN Using the BVN Validation Portal

You can easily check your BVN using the official NIBSS (Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System) validation portal. 

Here’s how:

1. Go to the NIBSS BVN Validation portal online.
2. Enter your username and password. Note that your registered email address serves as your username, and you can reset your password if you don’t know it.
3. Once you are logged in, enter your full name, registered phone number, and date of birth.
4. Click the “Submit” button and select a payment method to pay the ₦20 processing fee. 
5. Once the payment is complete, your BVN will appear. Save it or write it down for future reference.

2. Checking BVN Via Mobile Network 

One of the fastest ways to access your BVN is through the mobile number linked to your BVN at registration. You can use this method with MTN, GLO, 9mobile, or Airtel.

1. Dial *565*0# on your mobile phone. 

2. Enter your full date of birth to check your BVN.

3. Wait for your 11-digit BVN to appear on your screen.

4. Copy it down for future use or save it in a secure place.

Note that this method will cost N20 from your airtime balance. 

3. Check Your BVN Enrollment Slip

If you still have your BVN enrollment slip, you’re in luck! Your 11-digit BVN is usually printed on it. This method is simple, but it depends on whether you kept the slip after registration.

4. How To Check Your BVN on Your Bank’s Mobile App

Many banks display your BVN on their mobile apps, which is convenient if you use digital banking services. Here’s how to go about it:

1. Open your bank’s mobile app on your device.

2. Log in with your details.

3. Navigate to your profile or personal information section.

4. Look for your BVN under “Security Information” or “Account/Personal Information”. 

5. Copy your BVN if you need it.

5. Visit Your Bank’s Branch

If the previous methods don’t work for you, you can always go to the bank where you enrolled for your BVN. After confirming your identity, the bank’s customer service team can help retrieve your BVN.

Uses of a Bank Verification Number

It is important for you to have your BVN as this security number has different uses. They include:

1. Verifying Your Identity: You’ll need your BVN to verify your identity when opening new accounts such as savings, current, or fixed deposits. It could also be needed when upgrading your KYC level, or completing certain transactions.
2. Security and Fraud Prevention: As a unique identifier, your BVN helps safeguard your accounts from fraud.
3. Updating Personal Information: When you change your name, contact information, or other personal details, your BVN is required to update your records.
4. Linking Multiple Accounts: If you want to link accounts from different banks, your BVN is required to unify them.
5. Loan Applications: Financial institutions use your BVN to verify your identity when applying for loans or credit services.
6. Account Recovery and Emergencies: If you ever need to recover or unblock an account, your BVN serves as proof of identity.

Conclusion

Checking your BVN doesn’t have to be a complicated process. With these five methods, you can quickly retrieve your BVN whenever you need it. Your BVN is an important security detail so ensure that you keep it safe. Do not share with just anybody or enter it on unsecured websites.