Your BVN (Bank Verification Number) is a unique 11-digit number that contains your biometric information.
Your BVN is your financial ID and is often required for opening a bank account, upgrading your account, or completing forms for financial services.
While you may not have your BVN memorized like your phone number, the good news is that there are several quick, easy and secure ways to check your BVN.
This guide will walk you through how to check your BVN and make secure transactions.
What is BVN?
BVN stands for Bank Verification Number. It’s a unique 11-digit identifier created to verify an individual’s identity in the banking system.
The Central Bank of Nigeria introduced the Bank Verification Number in 2014 to reduce fraudulent transactions. Your BVN is linked to your personal information, such as your full name, date of birth, phone number, ID, fingerprints, account numbers, and your NIN (National Identification Number).
Your BVN is important because it provides an extra layer of protection by safeguarding your identity.
No two individuals can have the same BVN; no matter how many bank accounts you own, you’ll only ever need one BVN.
This way, you can confidently make transactions with your bank or Fintech app.
How to Check Your BVN with USSD
To check your BVN via USSD, dial *565*0# on any mobile network (MTN, Glo, 9Mobile, or Airtel), provided your phone number is linked to your BVN. Type in your full date of birth and you will receive a message with your BVN almost immediately. This service costs N20.
Note that the message will not be stored on your phone for security reasons. Be sure to take a screenshot or write it down right away.
The benefit of this method is that you don’t need internet access—just a working SIM card.
How to Check Your BVN Online
You can also check your BVN online using the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) website. NIBSS is the organization responsible for ensuring seamless transactions between Nigerian banks. They provide a secure platform where you can easily verify and retrieve your BVN using the “Check BVN” tool.
To use this service, visit the NIBSS website and input your full name, date of birth, and the phone number linked to your BVN. Once you’ve filled in the required details, choose a payment method that works for you.
The service costs N20, and you’ll need an active internet connection to complete the process.
How to Check Your BVN with Your Bank App
Some banks allow you to check your BVN through their mobile apps. Simply log into your bank app and navigate to the “Profile” section.
Depending on the bank, you may find your BVN under “Security Information” or “Personal Information” alongside other personal details like your phone number and account number.
How to Check Your BVN Using SMS
It’s important to note that you can’t check your BVN through SMS directly. For security reasons, you will not receive your BVN as a regular text message delivered to your inbox.
Instead, when you dial *565*0#, your BVN will appear as a temporary pop-up message on your screen. So ensure you take a screenshot or write it down immediately.
How to Check Your BVN at a NIMC Enrollment Center
If you prefer an in-person method, you can visit a National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) enrollment center. To find the nearest location, visit the NIMC website and use their center locator tool to search for an office close to you.
When you visit, carry your National ID card or NIN slip for easier processing. An agent will verify your identity using the documents you provide and then assist you with accessing your BVN.
How to Check Your BVN on the BVN Enrollment Slip
When you registered for your BVN, you received an acknowledgment slip. This slip contains important information, such as your BVN, enrollment date, and a reference number. If you have kept this slip safe, you can easily find your BVN by checking it.
Always store this document securely, as it can save you time when you need to access your BVN quickly without depending on digital or in-person methods.
How to Check Your BVN at Your Local Bank
If other methods aren’t accessible, you can retrieve your BVN by visiting your local bank.
When you get to the branch, head to customer service and explain your situation. Bank staff will verify your identity through ID documents or other linked information and provide you with your BVN.
However, this method might take longer due to wait times, so it’s best used when all other options have been exhausted.
How to Register for BVN
If you don’t have a BVN yet, the registration process is simple and free. Follow these steps to register for your BVN:
- Visit any bank branch: Walk into any branch of your bank.
- Fill out the BVN Enrolment form: Request and complete the form provided.
- Biometric data capture: Submit your biometric information, such as fingerprint scans, photograph, and your signature.
- Receive a transaction ID: After capturing your data, you will get a transaction ID on an acknowledgement slip. This slip confirms your registration and contains a reference number for follow-up.
- Wait for your BVN: Your BVN will be generated within 24 hours and you will be notified via SMS for pickup.
What is BVN Used For?
Your BVN (Bank Verification Number) is a unique identifier linked to your biometric data, ensuring that your financial identity is protected. It’s essential for any finance-related action that requires enhanced security. Here’s a breakdown of what your BVN is used for:
- To Verify Your Identity: Your BVN confirms your identity whenever you perform a transaction. Since it’s tied to your biometric data like fingerprints and facial recognition, it’s a reliable way to prove you are who you say you are.
- To Make International Transactions: Many financial institutions require your BVN to process cross-border payments. This ensures all transactions are secure and authorized.
- To Open an Account: Whether you’re opening a traditional bank account or a digital wallet, your BVN is often required to verify your details during the onboarding process.
- Personal Information Changes: If you need to update details like your phone number or address at your bank, your BVN serves as a point of reference to make sure these changes are securely applied.
- Account Recovery: In case you forget your account details or face other issues, your BVN can be used as a tool to recover your account.
- Applying for a Loan: Financial institutions require your BVN when applying for loans to ensure your identity is legitimate and track your financial history.
- Linking Multiple Bank Accounts: Your BVN allows you to link various accounts across different banks. This provides you with a unified financial identity that is secure and easier to track.
Why Mular Asks for Your BVN
At Mular, we use your BVN solely for verification purposes. Rest assured, we do not store your BVN in our systems once the verification process is complete.
Additionally, we cannot access your bank accounts using your BVN, and we adhere to strict privacy standards. This ensures that your information is never misused.
How to Open a Mular Account with Your BVN
A Mular account lets you buy, hold and spend crypto as naira without P2P risks. Opening an account with Mular is quick and secure.
Your BVN is essential for completing the verification process, and your payment details are protected with end-to-end encryption. This ensures that your information stays safe from unauthorized access.
Here’s how to open an account on Mular:
- Download the app and Sign up using your email address and phone number.
- Complete your KYC (Know Your Customer) process by providing your BVN. All your data is protected with end-to-end encryption.
- Receive a One-Time Password (OTP) sent to the phone number linked to your BVN.
- Enter the OTP to verify your BVN.
- Wait a few hours for your account to be verified.
Once your account is verified, you’re all set to start making transactions on Mular. You can receive funds, swap between cryptocurrencies or spend your crypto directly as naira!
Wrapping Up
Your BVN is a unique number that serves as your financial fingerprint. It securely stores your personal information and is used for various financial activities. Whether you’re checking your BVN through USSD, online, or visiting a bank, it’s easy to access and helps safeguard your financial transactions.