If you go to a bank to do business and the cashier refuses unless you provide your BVN, you can imagine that. Taking out your bag and looking at your notes makes you realize you never wrote it down. That 11-digit number might seem simple, but in Nigeria, your BVN is what uniquely identifies your finances.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) introduced BVN to link all your bank accounts together using a single ID. It acts as a universal key that allows you to check all your financial details. Prevent identity theft and improve security, the BVN is necessary for almost all banking business.
Thus, whether you are seeking a loan, opening an account, sending or receiving large sums or using online services, you should have it. That brings us to the big question: how to check BVN on MTN, quickly and without stress
Let’s break it all down in this guide.
How To Check BVN On MTN With USSD Code (No Internet Needed!)
Alright, let’s get straight to the point. If you’re an MTN user and you want to check your BVN without visiting the bank, here’s the simplest method:
Dial 5650# on your MTN line
Yes, that’s all it takes.
You’ll receive your 11-digit BVN as a popup or SMS (depending on your device and settings). But before you dial, take note of the following:
Your MTN SIM must be the one linked to your bank account. If not, the code won’t work.
Each check costs N20. It’s not free, so make sure you have airtime.
This method works on any kind of phone, whether it’s a smartphone or a simple feature phone. No data, no internet, just dial and get it done.
Advanced Methods to Check BVN on MTN
If the USSD method doesn’t work, or you just want alternatives, don’t worry. Here are some additional ways to check your BVN on MTN:
a. Through Your Bank’s Mobile App
Most Nigerian banks now allow you to view your BVN when logged into your mobile app. Open the app, go to “Profile” or “Settings,” and your BVN will likely be listed.
MTN Tip: As long as your MTN number is linked to the account, you can receive OTPs and complete logins instantly.
b. Internet Banking
Using your bank’s internet banking portal, log in with your MTN-linked credentials. Navigate to “Account Information” or “Profile Details,” and you should see your BVN.
c. Visit the Nearest Bank Branch (MTN Preferred Option for Rural Users)
Yes, it’s old-school, but it works. Walk into your bank, provide ID, and ask for your BVN. The good news is that many bank staff recognize MTN numbers instantly and offer priority support if your SIM is active and verified.
Read also: Lost Your Phone? Here’s How to Block Your MTN SIM in Minutes
MTN BVN Code Not Working? Here’s How To Fix It
So, you’ve dialed the MTN BVN code (5650#), and… nothing happens. Maybe it returns an error. Maybe you get charged but don’t see your BVN. Don’t panic, this happens more often than you think, and the good news is, it’s fixable.
Here’s how to troubleshoot:
1. Check Airtime Balance First: The 5650# code usually charges a small fee (usually ₦20). If your airtime is too low, the code may fail.
2. Try Again Later: MTN network glitches happen. If your request fails once, give it a few minutes or hours, then try again.
3. Restart Your Phone: A basic fix, but it works surprisingly often for USSD-related issues.
4. Ensure You’re Using the SIM Registered to Your Bank: If you’re trying the code on an MTN SIM that’s not linked to your bank account, it won’t retrieve the BVN.
5. Use Your Bank’s App Instead: If all else fails, open your bank’s mobile app. Most Nigerian banking apps display your BVN at the top of your profile once you log in.
6. Visit Your Bank: If nothing works and your BVN is urgently needed, walk into any branch of your bank with a valid ID to retrieve it.
How To Link Your BVN to Your MTN Line
While your BVN isn’t exactly linked to your MTN line (but rather to your bank accounts), you can still use your MTN line to link your BVN to your bank, which is often where the confusion comes in.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Use Your Bank’s USSD Code
Most banks in Nigeria allow BVN linking via their USSD codes. For example:
GTBank: Dial 73720*BVN#
Access Bank: Dial 901BVN#
First Bank: Dial 894BVN#
2. Via SMS
Some banks accept BVN linking via SMS. Visit your bank’s official website for the exact format. Send the SMS using your MTN line that’s registered with your bank.
3. Via Mobile App or Internet Banking
You can also link your BVN through your bank’s app. Just log in, look for “BVN Linking” or “Profile Update,” and follow the steps.
4. Visit Your Bank
If you’re unsure which MTN number is registered with your bank, the safest route is to go to the nearest branch and update or verify it in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I retrieve my BVN using an MTN line that’s not linked to my bank?
No, the MTN line must be the one registered with your bank. Otherwise, the code 5650# will not pull up your BVN.
2. Will I be charged every time I check my BVN on MTN?
Yes, most times you will be charged around ₦20 per request. It’s a small fee, but it’s deducted each time you dial the code.
3. Can I use the MTN BVN code outside Nigeria?
It depends on your roaming settings. If you’re abroad and your MTN line has active roaming, the USSD code may work. Otherwise, use your bank’s app or internet banking.
4. Is it safe to check my BVN on a shared or public phone?
No. Avoid checking your BVN on a device that’s not yours. Your BVN is sensitive information and could be misused.
5. What do I do if I forget which bank my BVN is linked to?
Dial 5650# to view your BVN, then visit any bank with your BVN number and valid ID to confirm if it’s linked.
6. Can I have multiple BVNs for different bank accounts?
No. By law, every Nigerian is only allowed one BVN, which must be linked across all their bank accounts.
7. What happens if my BVN isn’t linked to my MTN number but I switch numbers?
You need to update your new MTN number with your bank to maintain proper linkage. This helps with USSD banking and ensures smooth access to your BVN.
Conclusion
Whether you’re applying for a loan, updating your NIN, or just trying to open a new bank account, your BVN is one thing that you must have. And knowing how to check BVN on MTN isn’t just about dialing a code, it’s about understanding the whole ecosystem of mobile banking in Nigeria. With the steps outlined above, you’re not only checking your BVN; you’re taking control of your digital identity.
Now that you know every
thing from checking to linking and troubleshooting, the next step is yours, are you ready to make your MTN line work smarter for you?
