Skip to main content
Account verification (also called account enquiry or name lookup) confirms that a bank account exists and returns the account holder’s name. This is an essential step before initiating any transfer.

​
Why Verify Accounts?

Verifying accounts before transfers:
  • Prevents errors — Catches typos in account numbers before money is sent
  • Confirms identity — Shows the recipient’s name for user confirmation
  • Reduces disputes — Users can verify they’re sending to the right person
  • Saves costs — Failed transfers due to invalid accounts still incur fees
Always verify accounts and show the account holder’s name to your user before initiating a transfer. This simple step prevents most transfer errors.

​
How It Works

Send the account number and bank code, and Glyde returns the account holder’s name:

​
Successful Response

​
Failed Verification

If the account doesn’t exist or details are incorrect:

​
Getting Bank Codes

Bank codes are required for verification. Fetch the list of supported banks:
Cache this list in your application—it rarely changes. Let users search or select from a dropdown rather than typing bank names.

​
Integration Pattern

Here’s the recommended flow for a “send money” feature:
1

User Enters Details

Collect the account number and bank (from a dropdown of supported banks).
2

Verify Account

Call /v1/account-enquiry with the details.
3

Display Account Name

Show the returned account_name and ask the user to confirm this is the intended recipient.
4

User Confirms

Only proceed to transfer after explicit confirmation.
5

Initiate Transfer

Call /v1/transfer/initiate with the verified details.

​
Common Issues

​
Invalid Account Number

Account numbers in Nigeria are exactly 10 digits. If verification fails:
  • Check for typos or extra/missing digits
  • Confirm the account number with the recipient
  • Verify the correct bank is selected

​
Wrong Bank Selected

An account number is only valid at one bank. If the user selects the wrong bank, verification will fail even if the account exists elsewhere.

​
Timeout or Network Error

Bank verification involves real-time communication with banks. Occasionally, a bank’s systems may be slow or unavailable. Implement retry logic with appropriate user feedback.

​
Rate Limits

Account verification queries external bank systems and may be rate-limited. Avoid verifying the same account repeatedly in quick succession. Consider caching successful verifications briefly if users might retry the same details.