Checking your BVN is actually not hard, all you need is the USSD code that you can dial on your phone and you will be able to retrieve it. No internet or smartphone is required. I have no other intention but to show you how you can check your BVN on your phone and every other things you need to know about it.
Without any doubt, BVN is a vital identification number linked to all your bank accounts in Nigeria. Whether you want to access financial services or confirm your identity, your BVN is indispensable.
Sometimes, you may forget your BVN, especially if you don’t use it regularly. Luckily, there’s a quick and easy way to retrieve it using a USSD code that doesn’t require an internet or smartphone. I am going to walk you through how to check your BVN using your mobile phone.
What is BVN, and Why is It Important?
The Bank Verification Number (BVN) is an 11-digit number that uniquely identifies each customer across the Nigerian banking system. It was introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to curb identity theft and improve security in financial transactions.
Key Benefits of BVN
- Secure Banking: Helps protect your account from unauthorized access.
- Unified Identification: Links all your bank accounts to one unique number.
- Financial Inclusion: Allows you to perform transactions seamlessly across different banks.
- Fraud Prevention: Reduces the risk of fraudulent activities by verifying your identity.
Why you need to know your BVN
Just the way your NIN is important to you, BVN is also required in most of the things you do in Nigeria, example:
- To Open bank account: It’s a must that you will provide your BVN before your can open a new account number or register if you have not done that already.
- Government grants and loans: Any grants or loan that comes from federal government goes through the BVN which is the only means to verify an individual’s financial identity.
- Sourcing for loans: For you to get a loan both online and offline you must provide your BVN for them to be able to access your financial activities and personal details.
How to Check Your BVN Using a USSD Code
Checking your BVN with a USSD code is simple, quick, and works on any mobile phone. You don’t need internet access or a smartphone to retrieve your BVN. Another good news is that one USSD code works for all the Nigerian Telecoms like MTN, GLO, Airtel and 9Mobile.
Follow these steps
- Dial the USSD Code: On your mobile phone, dial *565*0#.
- Use the Registered Phone Number: Make sure to dial from the phone number linked to your BVN.
- Wait for Response: Within seconds, your BVN will appear on your screen.
- Take Note: You may be charged a small fee (usually around ₦20) for the service.
Why Use the USSD Code?
Using the USSD code to check your BVN is advantageous for several reasons:
- Convenience: You don’t need to visit your bank.
- Offline Access: No need for an internet connection.
- Instant Results: You get your BVN within seconds.
- Works on All Networks: Whether you’re using MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile, the code works the same way.
Things to Keep in Mind While checking your BVN via USSD
- Network Charges Apply: Your mobile network will deduct a small fee.
- Security Concerns: Avoid sharing your BVN with strangers or on untrusted platforms.
- Number Registration: Ensure you’re dialing from the phone number linked to your BVN.
- Avoid Multiple Tries: Repeated attempts may result in extra charges.
How to Link Your BVN to Your Bank Account
If your BVN is not linked to your bank account, here’s what you need to do, visit Your Bank and go to your nearest bank branch with a valid ID and your BVN. Fill out a form which is normally a BVN form available in all the Nigerian banks. After that the bank will try to verify your BVN and link it to your account. After that you will receive a notification once the process is complete.
How to Protect Your BVN
Your BVN is crucial for securing your financial identity, so protect it by following these tips:
- Don’t Share Your BVN: Avoid giving your BVN to anyone unless it’s absolutely necessary.
- Beware of Scams: Fraudsters may pose as bank officials asking for your BVN.
- Check Your Bank Statements: Regularly monitor your accounts for unauthorized transactions.
- Contact Your Bank if Lost: If your phone is lost or stolen, notify your bank immediately to secure your accounts.
Also Read:
- How to Link NIN to Bank Account in Nigeria
- Gtbank Ussd Codes and How to Use it for Transactions
- Globus Bank USSD Code: How to Use, Register, and Activate It
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I check my BVN without the registered phone number? No, you must use the phone number linked to your BVN to retrieve it via the USSD code.
2. Is there a free way to check my BVN? Currently, the USSD method is not free. A small fee is charged by your mobile network.
3. Can I use the USSD code abroad? No, the USSD code only works within Nigeria. If you’re abroad, consider contacting your bank through their online channels.
4. What if I don’t receive my BVN after dialing the code? This could be due to network issues, insufficient airtime, or using an unregistered phone number. Try again later or visit your bank.
Conclusion:
I believe you have seen what you are looking for which is your bank verification number (BVN). However, using a USSD code is not the only way to check your BVN but it’s the most convenient method that won’t stress you. Free to log in to your bank mobile app and click the menu you will see your BVN directly from the menu or you will see the option that can take you to your BVN.
Don’t hesitate to ask your question about BVN and anything related to it and i will be happy to answer your questions promptly.