HOW-TO
How to Check Your BVN on Your Phone
A quick, offline way to see your Bank Verification Number using the phone number linked to your account.
Quick answer
To check your BVN, dial *565*0# from the phone number linked to your bank account. Your 11-digit BVN shows on screen for a small fee (about N20 as of 2026). It works on any network without internet, but only from your BVN-linked SIM.
Key points
- Dial *565*0# from the SIM linked to your bank account to see your 11-digit BVN.
- It works on MTN, Glo, Airtel and 9mobile, with or without internet, for about N20 as of 2026.
- The code only works from the number you gave your bank; it will not work from another SIM.
- If your line is linked to more than one BVN, the code may return nothing, so ask your bank instead.
- Never read your BVN, PIN or an OTP to anyone who calls or messages you.
Step by step
- Use your bank-linked SIMPick up the phone whose number is registered with your bank and BVN. The code only returns a BVN for that line.
- Dial *565*0#Open the dialer, enter *565*0# and press call. It runs on all networks and needs no internet or data.
- Approve the chargeA small service fee applies, about N20 as of 2026. Confirm the amount shown before you approve.
- Read your BVNYour 11-digit BVN appears on screen. Note it down privately and do not share it.
- If nothing shows, contact your bankIf the code returns an error, or your line is tied to more than one BVN, confirm your BVN in your bank's official app or at a branch.
What a BVN is
Your Bank Verification Number (BVN) is a single 11-digit number that identifies you across every bank in Nigeria. You get it once, and the same BVN follows you to any account you open. Checking it is useful when opening an account, filling a form, or confirming that your records match.
What you need
The only firm requirement is the SIM you registered with your bank, plus a little airtime for the fee. The service works on a basic phone with no data, so you do not need a smartphone or the internet.
USSD or your bank app?
USSD is the quickest self-check and works offline, but it charges a small fee and only works from your linked SIM. Most bank apps also display your BVN in your profile after login, which is free, so use whichever you can access. If you have changed the phone number on your account, update it at your branch first, or the USSD route will not recognise your line.
When the code will not work
If your number is tied to more than one BVN, the USSD service may return nothing by design. In that case, confirm your BVN through your bank directly. It also helps to know which accounts are linked to your BVN so you can spot anything you did not open.
Keep your BVN safe
Your BVN on its own is not a password, but fraudsters combine it with other tricks. Never read it out with an OTP or PIN, and learn the warning signs in common NIN and BVN scams. If you ever share it by mistake, see what to do if your BVN or NIN is compromised. Your BVN is separate from your NIN.
⚠ Stay safe
Your bank and NIBSS will never call to ask for your BVN, card PIN or an OTP. If someone asks you to confirm these to check or protect your BVN, it is a scam.
Frequently asked questions
What is the code to check my BVN?
Does *565*0# work on any SIM?
How much does it cost?
The code gives an error. What now?
Is my BVN the same as my account number or NIN?
Can I see the accounts tied to my BVN?
Official sources
SabiGuide is an independent guide and is not affiliated with any government agency. Fees, links and steps can change — always confirm on the official portal before you act. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.