Is BVN An Account Number? All Your BVN Questions Answered

In this blog post, we will be answering the question “is BVN an account number?” and many other questions about BVN, to help everyone reading this post have a better understanding of what BVN is and how to secure their funds.

Let’s dive in

Is BVN the same as account number?

No, the Bank Verification Number (BVN) is not an account number. BVN is a unique identification number issued to individuals in Nigeria for the purpose of verifying and authenticating their identities across different financial institutions. It is a centralized system introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to curb fraud, and identity theft, and improve the efficiency of the banking system.

Each individual who holds a bank account in Nigeria is assigned a BVN, which is linked to their biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition. The BVN acts as a universal identification number that can be used across multiple banks and financial institutions in Nigeria.

An account number, on the other hand, is a distinct number assigned to an individual’s specific bank account. It is unique to each account and is used for transactions and identifying the account when making deposits, withdrawals, or transfers. The account number, along with the associated bank’s name and other required details, is used to facilitate the movement of funds to and from the account.

How can I use my BVN to borrow money?

To use your BVN (Bank Verification Number) to borrow money, you can follow these general steps:

Research Lending Platforms: Look for reputable lending platforms or financial institutions that accept BVN as part of their loan application process. These can include banks, microfinance institutions, or online lending platforms.
Choose a Suitable Lender: Evaluate the terms and conditions, interest rates, repayment options, and eligibility criteria of various lenders to find the one that best suits your needs.
Gather Required Documents: Typically, when applying for a loan using your BVN, you will need to provide additional documents such as a valid identification document (e.g., national ID card, international passport, or driver’s license), proof of address, and possibly proof of income or employment.
Fill out the Loan Application: Complete the loan application form provided by the chosen lender. This form will typically require your personal information, contact details, employment details, and other relevant details related to your financial situation.
Provide Your BVN: In the loan application process, you will be required to enter your BVN. This allows the lender to verify your identity, access your credit history, and assess your eligibility for the loan.
Consent and Authorization: As part of the loan application, you may need to provide consent and authorize the lender to access your BVN records and credit information for verification and evaluation purposes.
Wait for Approval: After submitting your loan application, the lender will review your information and assess your creditworthiness. This process may take some time, and the lender may request additional documents or information if needed.
Loan Disbursement: If your loan application is approved, the lender will provide you with the loan agreement and disburse the funds to your designated bank account. The amount and repayment terms will be outlined in the loan agreement.

However, the specific steps and requirements may vary depending on the lender and the loan product you are applying for. It is essential to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of the loan before accepting any offer.

How many accounts can a BVN have?

A Bank Verification Number (BVN) in Nigeria is typically linked to one individual and one primary bank account. However, it’s important to note that a BVN can be linked to multiple accounts across different banks or financial institutions.

Having a BVN allows individuals to open and operate multiple bank accounts across different banks using the same BVN. This helps to streamline identity verification processes and prevent individuals from using multiple identities to engage in fraudulent activities.

So, to summarize, a BVN can be linked to multiple bank accounts, but each bank account will have its own unique account number associated with it.

Can one person have two BVN numbers?

No, it is not possible for one person to have two BVN (Bank Verification Number) numbers in Nigeria. The BVN system was introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to uniquely identify individuals and prevent fraud in the banking system. Each BVN is assigned to a specific individual and is linked to their biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition.

During the BVN registration process, individuals are required to provide their personal information and undergo biometric data capture. This ensures that each BVN is unique and corresponds to a single individual.

Having multiple BVN numbers for a single person would undermine the purpose of the BVN system and could lead to identity confusion and fraudulent activities.

How many times can I change my BVN number?

The Bank Verification Number (BVN) is a unique identification number assigned to individuals in Nigeria, and it is intended to be a permanent identifier throughout a person’s banking journey. Therefore, it is not typically possible to change your BVN number once it has been assigned to you.

The BVN system was established by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to enhance security, prevent identity theft, and streamline banking operations. Each BVN is linked to an individual’s biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, to ensure accurate identification.

Can someone change date of birth on BVN?

Changing the date of birth on a Bank Verification Number (BVN) in Nigeria is generally not a straightforward process. The BVN is linked to an individual’s biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, and is intended to be a permanent identifier.

However, if there is an error or discrepancy in your date of birth on your BVN, you can take the following steps to rectify the issue:

Contact your Bank: Reach out to the bank where you registered for your BVN and explain the situation. Provide them with the correct and accurate date of birth.
Provide Supporting Documents: Your bank may require you to provide supporting documents that can verify your correct date of birth. These documents can include your birth certificate, national identification card, international passport, or any other valid identification document.
Follow the Bank’s Process: Each bank may have its own specific process for correcting BVN details. It’s important to follow their instructions and provide all the requested information accurately.
Verification and Approval: Once you have submitted the necessary documents and information, the bank will verify the details and determine if a correction can be made. The verification process may take some time, so it’s important to follow up with the bank on the progress.

Does BVN expire in Nigeria?

No, the Bank Verification Number (BVN) does not expire in Nigeria. The BVN is a unique identification number issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to individuals for the purpose of verifying and authenticating their identities across different financial institutions.

Once you have been assigned a BVN, it remains valid and applicable for your lifetime, as long as you maintain a banking relationship in Nigeria. It is not necessary to renew or update the BVN unless there is a specific issue or discrepancy that needs to be resolved, such as correcting personal information or updating biometric data.

How do I check the details on my BVN?

To check the details associated with your Bank Verification Number (BVN) in Nigeria, you can follow these steps:

Dial the BVN USSD Code: On your mobile phone, dial the BVN USSD code provided by your mobile network operator. The common BVN USSD code in Nigeria is *565#.
Select the “BVN Enquiry” Option: After dialing the BVN USSD code, you will be presented with a menu of options. Look for the option related to BVN inquiry or check BVN details.
Enter your BVN: When prompted, enter your BVN using the phone keypad. Ensure that you input the correct 11-digit BVN number associated with your account.
Submit and Wait for Response: After entering your BVN, submit the request. The system will process your request and retrieve the details associated with your BVN. This may take a few moments.
View BVN Details: Once the processing is complete, you will receive a response containing the details associated with your BVN. This typically includes your name, date of birth, phone number, and other relevant information.

How do I check another person’s BVN?

Checking another person’s Bank Verification Number (BVN) is not a recommended or authorized practice. The BVN is a personal identification number assigned to individuals in Nigeria for the purpose of verifying and authenticating their identities across different financial institutions. The BVN is confidential and should be protected.

Accessing or checking someone else’s BVN without their consent or authorization is considered a breach of privacy and can potentially be illegal. The BVN system is designed to safeguard individual’s personal information and prevent unauthorized access.

If you require someone’s BVN for a legitimate reason, such as for a financial transaction or verification, it is important to follow the proper channels. The individual in question should be asked to provide their BVN directly or grant you permission to access their BVN information through authorized means, such as contacting their bank or the relevant authorities.

Is there an age limit for BVN?

Yes, there is an age limit for obtaining a Bank Verification Number (BVN) in Nigeria. According to the guidelines set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), individuals who are 16 years old and above are eligible to enroll for a BVN.

The age requirement is in place to ensure that individuals have reached a certain level of maturity and legal capacity before being assigned a unique identification number linked to their biometric data. This helps to prevent misuse of personal information and ensures the integrity of the BVN system.

How much is BVN in Nigeria?

Obtaining a Bank Verification Number (BVN) in Nigeria is generally free of charge. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN has mandated that BVN registration should be provided to customers at no cost.

When BVN registration was introduced in Nigeria, it was implemented as a government initiative to enhance the security and efficiency of the banking system. As such, the registration process and the issuance of the BVN are typically offered to customers by their respective banks or financial institutions without any associated fees.

It’s important to note that some banks may require you to visit their branches to complete the BVN registration process. While the BVN registration itself is free, you may incur transportation or time costs associated with visiting the bank in person.

If you encounter any instances where a fee is being charged for BVN registration or have any concerns regarding BVN-related charges, it is recommended to contact your bank directly or report the issue to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) or the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS).

How do I know if my BVN is activated?

To check if your Bank Verification Number (BVN) is activated, you can follow these steps:

Contact Your Bank: The most reliable way to determine the activation status of your BVN is to contact your bank directly. Reach out to their customer service or visit a branch in person.
Provide Necessary Information: When contacting your bank, be prepared to provide your account details, full name, and any other information they may request for verification purposes.
Inquire About BVN Activation: Ask the bank representative specifically if your BVN is activated and linked to your account. They will be able to access their system and confirm the status for you.
Follow Bank’s Instructions: If your BVN is not yet activated, the bank will guide you on the necessary steps to activate it. This may involve completing certain forms or providing additional documentation.
Confirm Activation: Once you have followed the bank’s instructions to activate your BVN, you can inquire again to confirm if the activation process has been completed successfully.

Alternatively, you can dial the BVN USSD code, if it is activated, you will see the information on your phone. Use the phone number registered on your BVN to access this.

How do I link my BVN with my phone number?

To link your Bank Verification Number (BVN) with your phone number in Nigeria, you can follow these steps:

Visit Your Bank: Visit the branch of the bank where you have an account linked to your BVN. It is important to visit the bank in person for this process.
Request BVN-Phone Number Linking Form: Ask the bank for the BVN-phone number linking form. They will provide you with the necessary form to complete the process.
Fill out the Form: Fill out the form with accurate information. The form may require details such as your full name, BVN, phone number, and other relevant information.
Provide Identification Documents: Along with the form, you will likely need to provide valid identification documents such as your national ID card, international passport, or driver’s license. These documents help verify your identity and ensure the accuracy of the BVN-phone number linking process.
Submit the Form and Documents: Once you have filled out the form and gathered the necessary documents, submit them to the bank representative or the designated desk for BVN-related services.
Verification and Processing: The bank will verify the information provided, ensuring that the phone number matches the BVN details. This process may take some time, so it is important to follow up with the bank if needed.
Confirmation and Activation: Once the verification process is complete, the bank will link your BVN with your phone number. They will provide you with confirmation or notify you when the linking process has been successfully activated.

Can my BVN be deactivated?

In general, a Bank Verification Number (BVN) in Nigeria cannot be deactivated. Once you have been assigned a BVN, it is intended to be a permanent identification number that remains associated with your biometric data and personal information throughout your banking journey.

However, there are certain circumstances under which your BVN may be flagged or restricted by the relevant authorities or your bank. These circumstances could include instances of fraudulent activities, non-compliance with banking regulations, or a breach of terms and conditions set by your bank.

If your BVN is flagged or restricted, it is important to contact your bank directly to inquire about the reason for the restriction and seek guidance on the steps you need to take to resolve the issue.

Is BVN free?

Yes, obtaining a Bank Verification Number (BVN) in Nigeria is generally free of charge. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has mandated that BVN registration should be provided to customers at no cost.

Can someone access my account with my BVN?

No, someone cannot directly access your bank account simply by having your Bank Verification Number (BVN). The BVN is a unique identification number assigned to individuals in Nigeria for the purpose of verifying and authenticating their identities across different financial institutions.

To access your bank account, individuals would typically require additional information and credentials, such as your account number, PIN, password, or other authentication factors specific to your bank. It is crucial to keep this information confidential and only share it with authorized entities or institutions when necessary.

However, always keep it safe as possible as required and advised by the bank.

Can I use my BVN to find my account number?

Yes, you can use your Bank Verification Number (BVN) to find your account number. The BVN is a unique identifier linked to your bank account, and it is connected to your account information within the banking system.

To find your account number using your BVN, you can follow these steps:

Contact Your Bank: Reach out to your bank’s customer service through phone, email, or visit a branch in person.
Provide BVN and Identity Verification: When contacting your bank, be prepared to provide your BVN and verify your identity. They may ask you to provide personal information such as your full name, date of birth, and any other details required for verification purposes.
Request Account Number: Inform the bank representative that you would like to obtain your account number using your BVN. They will assist you with the process.
Verification Process: The bank will go through a verification process to confirm your identity and link your BVN to your account. This may involve asking you security questions or requesting additional identification documents.
Receive Account Number: Once the verification process is complete, the bank will provide you with the account number associated with your BVN.

Conclusion

If you find this post helpful, do well to share it with your friends so they will get the best answers to their questions regarding BVN, what it is, and how to secure it to protect them from the hands of fraudsters and fake BVN verification agencies online.

Is there any question you have about your BVN? Feel free to let us know using the comment box below, we will be more than happy to reply to you with the best answer.

We also promise to keep updating this post with the latest BVN tips.