Losing your NBI Reference Number can cause delays when applying for or renewing your NBI Clearance.
This number is very important because it helps you track your payment, set your NBI appointment and claim your clearance.
If you accidentally deleted your text message or lost your receipt don’t worry! In this guide we will explain you easy ways to find or recover your lost NBI Reference Number using different methods.
What Is an NBI Reference Number?
An NBI Reference Number is a special code given to you by the NBI Clearance online system after you finish your application.
This number works like your official transaction ID. You can use it to:
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Check the status of your NBI Clearance application
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Confirm your payment with NBI’s partner stores or banks
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Book your appointment at an NBI office
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Claim your printed NBI Clearance
Every applicant gets a different reference number
Why You Should Not Lose Your NBI Reference Number
If you lose your NBI Reference Number you won’t be able to:
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Check your NBI Clearance status online
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Confirm if your payment was successful
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Enter the NBI office for your appointment
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Claim your printed NBI Clearance
That is why it is very important to keep your reference number safe. You can take a screenshot, print the confirmation page or write it down right after you finish your online registration. so make sure to keep it safe until you finish the whole clearance process.
How to Retrieve a Lost NBI Reference Number
If you lost or forgot your NBI Reference Number You can try these easy and safe methods to get it back:
1. Check Your Email Inbox
When you apply or renew your NBI Clearance online the system sends you a confirmation email that includes:
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Your Reference Number
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Your appointment date and branch
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Payment instructions
✅ Steps:
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Log in to the email account you used for NBI registration.
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Search for emails from “NBI Clearance Online” or “clearance@nbi.gov.ph.”
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Open the message and look for your reference number.
💡 Tip: Check your Spam, Promotions, or Updates folders sometimes the email is placed there by mistake. you can also clear your nbi record by using simple steps.
2. Log In to Your NBI Online Account
If you registered online you can find your reference number by logging in to your account.
✅ Steps:
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Go to 👉 https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph
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Click “Sign In” and enter your email and password.
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On your Dashboard look under “Transactions” or “Recent Applications.”
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Your Reference Number will appear next to your pending or completed application.
3. Check Your Payment Receipt or SMS Confirmation
If you paid through GCash, Maya, 7-Eleven, Bayad Center or SM Payment Counter your reference number is usually printed on the receipt or confirmation message.
✅ Steps:
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Open your GCash or Maya app and check your transaction history.
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Find the payment you made to NBI.
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Look for the reference number or transaction code in the details.
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If you paid at a store, check the printed receipt for a 10- or 12-digit code that is your NBI reference number.
4. Contact the NBI Help Desk
If you still can’t find your reference number you can ask for help from the NBI Help Desk.
✅ Steps:
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Send an email to nbiclearance@nbi.gov.ph
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Include the following details:
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Your Full Name
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Date of Birth
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Registered email address
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Date of application or payment
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A short message saying you want to recover your lost reference number
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The NBI team usually replies within 1–3 working days.
📞 You can also call (02) 8523-8231 during business hours for faster help.
5. Visit the NBI Office (If Urgent)
If you need your clearance quickly and can’t recover your number online, you can visit the NBI branch where you set your appointment.
✅ Bring:
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A valid government ID
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Your payment receipt (if you have it)
Tell the staff at the Information Desk or Verification Section that you lost your reference number. They can search for your record in their system using your personal details.
What to Do After Retrieving Your Reference Number
Once you find your NBI Reference Number here is what you should do next:
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Use it to verify your payment online.
Go to the NBI Clearance website and check if your payment has been confirmed. -
Show it at the NBI office.
When you visit for your appointment, present your reference number to claim your clearance. -
Keep it safe.
Save it on your phone, write it in your notes or print a copy so you don’t lose it again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I still go to the NBI office without a reference number?
No The reference number is required to validate your appointment and confirm your payment.
Q2: Can I retrieve my reference number using my name only?
Yes You can email the NBI Help Desk and provide your full name and registered email address. They can manually locate your record.
Q3: How long does it take to recover a lost NBI reference number?
Usually it takes 1 to 3 working days via email or you can retrieve it instantly by logging in to your NBI online account.
Q4: What if I already paid but the reference number doesn’t appear?
Contact NBI immediately at nbiclearance@nbi.gov.ph and include a screenshot or copy of your payment proof for faster verification.
Q5: Can I reuse my old reference number for new applications?
No Each new application or renewal generates a unique reference number so you will always receive a new one every time you apply.
Conclusion
Losing your NBI Reference Number might feel stressful but it is easy to recover it through your email, NBI online account, payment receipt or by contacting the NBI Help Desk. To prevent future problems, always save, screenshot or print your reference number right after registration.
