Instagram verified status is on every marketer’s wishlist, but it can be so confusing to figure out how to get that little blue check for yourself! If you’ve been wondering how to get verified on Instagram, search no further. We’ve got the answers you need. 🎉
We’ve analyzed, experimented and researched the best ways to get verified on Instagram – and translated them into seven simple steps and a ton of powerhouse tips to get a blue badge on your profile.
In this article, we’re going over common questions like what Instagram verified means, why you want an Instagram verified badge, and how to apply for verification. Plus, we’ve got quick tips to improve your odds.
Ready to get that prestigious blue seal on Instagram yourself? Let’s dive in! 🏊♀️
Want to make driving sales from Instagram easier than ever? Set up your FREE Smart.bio tool! Smart.bio by Tailwind is an advanced link in bio tool allows total brand customization, a mix of static and post links and in-depth analytics to help you turn your followers into customers with ease.
What is a Verified Badge on Instagram?
You’ve seen the little blue checkmark next to some of your favorite IG account names. This blue symbol ( a seal with a check in the center) means that the account is officially verified by Instagram. People, brands, and businesses with the Instagram verified badge are authentic.
The blue badge is given to notable people and brands on Instagram. It’s really important to avoid imposter accounts and copycats!
Fake accounts, copycats and impersonators target well-known and influential accounts on social media. These imposters use their likeness to trick unwary followers. Not cool! 🙄
At best, impersonators are annoying. At worst, they negatively affect your brand and image on social media.
That’s why the Instagram verified badge was created. The handy blue badge is a certification of authenticity on Instagram. It shows followers that the person or brand behind the account is real and can be trusted.
What is the Value of a Blue Badge on Instagram?
Let’s be real. The little blue tick is important for verifying real Instagram accounts, but it’s also a status symbol. After all, if you’ve earned a blue badge on Instagram you must be somebody “notable”, right?
That’s why getting Instagram verified is a major milestone for growing accounts. However, if you’re wondering who exactly gets a verified profile on Instagram, the platform leaves the exact requirements a little vague.
Can I Get Verified on Instagram?
The short answer is maybe. It’s easy to figure out though, anyone can apply now! Here’s why:
Instagram introduced a public verified account application in August 2018, to demystify the process and curb the secret black market for blue checks. 😱
The application for Instagram verification is now public. Before the application went live, no one really knew what the criteria was.
Here are the updated requirements from Instagram in 2021. We’ll get into the nitty gritty details, but the basics are that you need to be authentic, unique, complete, and notable.
Never Try to Buy Your Verification Badge
Never trust that friend that tells you he has another “friend” that works for Instagram and can get your badge for only a few dollars. Also, never trust those people sending you DMs saying how easy it is to get your Instagram account verified and asking you to pay them to take care of the process.
Instagram scammers know that people and businesses are feeling exaggerated about the blue check. Also, be aware that some are very effective at looking legitimate. Keep in mind that Instagram will never request or contact you for payment.
In addition, it is very important to always play the game by the rules. Ignoring Instagram’s Terms of Service and Community Guidelines will suspend or delete your account, but great power comes with great responsibility. The verification process needs to be ethical and genuine.
How to Get Verified on Instagram Step-By-Step
The application process for Instagram verification is really easy. You just need to follow these steps:
1. Visit your profile and tap the Menu button in the top right corner
2. Tap the Settings icon (it looks like a little gear)
3. Tap the Account icon
4. Tap Request Verification near the bottom
5. Fill out your full name, professional name, and category
6. Upload a picture of your ID or business documents
7. Click Send when your application is complete!
Make sure to read the section where you attach your ID! You’ll need a government ID that clearly states your name and date of birth (like a driver’s license, passport or national ID), or business documents like tax filings or a utility bill if you’re requesting verification for a business or brand.
And that’s it!
Instagram will let you know once they’ve reviewed your request. My official reply came three days after I applied.
Since I’m “Authentic,” “Unique,” and have a “Complete” profile, the issue seems to be that I’m not “Notable” enough. Oh well. It was worth a try!
In fact, the “Notable” requirement is where most accounts usually don’t pass muster – yet! Don’t worry, we have some tips to help!
Instagram verification requirements
Here are the requirements from Instagram to get your account verified:
- Adhere to Instagram’s Terms of Service and Community Guidelines
- Be authentic
– To qualify, you have to be who you say you are, whether your account represents a person, a business or a brand!
- Be unique –
Only one account per person or business can be verified (unless your account is language-specific). Fan accounts, meme accounts, and feature accounts aren’t verified.
- Be complete
– Since the blue badge is reserved for public figures and entities, you can’t have a private profile. Your profile must also be complete, meaning you have a bio, profile photo and at least one post in your feed.
- Be notable
– To grab the Instagram blue check for yourself, your account has to represent a well-known, highly searched for brand, person or business.
So, now to the million-dollar questions…
FAQs on Instagram Verification
Here’s an FAQ of the questions we get asked a lot about getting Instagram verified!
Do I have a business account to get Instagram verified?
The application is available to all Instagram account types. This includes Personal accounts, Creator accounts, and Business accounts.
Is the verification application free?
The application for Instagram verification is free! You can find it under your Settings in your Instagram app, so there’s no need to use a third-party app or program to apply.
If you’re asked to pay for Instagram verification, it’s a scam! 🙅♀️
How many followers do I need to get verified on Instagram?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions. Sadly, Instagram has never announced an official number of followers required for Instagram verification, and there is no data for the lowest followers verified Instagram account.
However, those with the most followers and greatest reach do have the most to lose, so there likely is some (unspecified) threshold of followers or reach required to be accepted.
That said, there is no harm in applying – and a lot you could gain if you’re approved. The application is quick and easy, so what do you have to lose?
The rest of us should just keep on building our followers and reach until we qualify as well!
Can Tailwind help me get verified?
No, we wish we could help, but can’t get you verified. Even though Tailwind is a trusted Instagram Partner 💁♀️, that just means Instagram recognizes our app as being effective and helpful for growing business on Instagram. Only Instagram can verify your account.
However, we can help you grow your followers using our platform of Instagram tools. Our Create tool can help you build dozens of posts in seconds. We also have a Smart.bio tool, hashtag finder, and scheduling! All of these offer a free trial, and you can have access to all the features together with Tailwind Pro.
What are the benefits of getting verified on Instagram?
Is Instagram verification worth applying for? Does the coveted blue badge really mean anything besides bragging rights?
Absolutely. Getting verified on Instagram has a positive effect on your marketing efforts on Instagram. Here’s are some of the perks of having a blue check:
- Getting verified on Instagram builds trust – The blue check reassures your followers that you’re real and your account can be trusted.
- You have access to Instagram Link in Stories – Verified accounts were the first to be able to add links to their Instagram Stories. Without verification, you’ll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature.
- It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you’re somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you’re about!
- Increased attention from the blue badge – With all the buzz and curiosity about your new blue checkmark, you’ll be able to turn that attention into engagement, conversions and maybe even sales!
But wait, don’t lose hope of ever driving traffic from Instagram if you’re aren’t to 10K yet and can’t get verified.
An advanced link in bio tool like Smart.bio by Tailwind can help you drive traffic to your blog posts and products easily with a FREE customizable landing page! 🤩
How Long Does it Take to Get Verified on Instagram?
Like we shared above, the actual process for Instagram to verify you is fairly short, about 2-3 weeks. However, if you need to grow your follower base and improve your notability, that can take a lot longer.
Alright, we’ve got the frequently asked questions out of the way… let’s talk about some actionable tips to help you get verified!
How to Become More “Notable” On Instagram
1. Complete Your Instagram Bio
One of the core requirements of Instagram verification is a complete Instagram profile. Make sure your bio is completely filled out, includes a profile photo and you have at least one post on our account.
For a step-by-step peek at how to make a perfect bio, read “6 Steps to Create a Perfectly Branded Bio.” If you are running out of ideas for your Bio, check this article with 220+ Instagram Bio ideas.
2.Work On Getting Published
The main disqualifier for people hoping to get their Instagram accounts verified is not being newsworthy. Each Instagram account is verified manually by an Instagram employee, who performs a check for multiple news sources.
Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched for person, brand or entity. We review accounts that are featured in multiple news sources, and we don’t consider paid or promotional content as sources for review.
Work on getting your name in the news by sending out press releases, media kits and connecting with local news agencies. Once you’ve had your name in the media a few times, reach out to larger publications for more visibility!
To make your news coverage easy to find, look into keeping a press section organized on your website.
3. Groom Your Web Presence to Be Highly Searchable
If your account is solely based on Instagram, chances are you won’t get verified. However, you can establish a notable presence and secure the Instagram blue check by making sure you dominate the search around your name!
Optimize your web page, other social media profiles to appear highly in web search. Create even more search results by guest posting on other sites and seeking mentions on similar blogs, podcasts, and video!
Implement significant optimization strategies for your social media accounts, this will have a positive impact on the credibility of your account when the verification process begins.
4. Keep Growing Your Instagram Following
While there’s no required number of followers to be Instagram verified, you’ll definitely seem more notable with a higher number of followers.
To increase your odds of getting a blue checkmark next to your name, keep on building your reach and growing your engaged followers.
Tailwind for Instagram has a ton of resources to help you do just that as we mentioned. Try Tailwind for free!
Start a Free Trial of Tailwind for Instagram!
- Schedule photos and videos directly to your Instagram feed with Auto Post.
- Optimize every post for more engagement with SmartSchedule and Hashtag Finder.
- Automatically hide your post’s hashtags in the first comment to keep your caption clean & clutter-free.
- Make your posts more discoverable with user tagging & location tagging.
- Analyze what's working across every post and profile with smart analytics.
Will you request verification? Have you been verified? Let us know in the comments!
Pin Me For Later 📌:
130 Comments
Sadly it’s not showing up on mine
Should be any time now!
Not showing on my account either. I just updated the app also.
Are you on Android?
Thanks for this! Question – if you’re trying to verify a business account / brand, will they change it to your Full Name given that’s what is being “verified” ? Or is that simply for verification purposes?
I don’t believe they will change anything at all. This is just for verification. You’re welcome, Erica!
Hi Meredith! I am managing an account for a small company and am not sure if I can just submit my ID in order to get the account verified or it has to be only a registration/tax document of the company.
Hi, Nihadica, Not sure, really, but probably would be more likely to have success with a document belonging to the company. ~ Alisa
I don’t have the “request verification option (yet) 🙁 But i bookmarked these instructions for once I do–thanks!
Oh man!! Shouldn’t be long, Daneen – and you’re welcome!
I don’t have that option in my settings and I am using a business profile.
Should be available shortly – for personal and business. No guarantee that we’ll get approved – still waiting on my answer!
Hi. If I go by The Oily Analyst, will they still accept my personal form of identification? I don’t want to change my IG name to my real name. Thanks!
They haven’t specified, but it should be OK to use personal ID. To avoid that issue, you could always upload one of the business documents listed as an option.
When we are a brand how do they “verify” that I as a person am linked to that brand or that I one of the owners of that brand? They ask for a name and photo id – so only if they go to our website or look us up through our LLC how will they process that link to us?
Hi Robin, they haven’t shared how they will do that exactly. Probably safest to provide business documentation (tax return, etc) for a business, but they didn’t say.
I sent all my info for verification but never received anything from IG to say it was received…my screen on the app didn’t even change so it looked like nothing happened. Is this normal or should I try again (for the 4th time)?
You should definitely get a screen that confirms your information was accepted. That said, I did get that screen, but I can still apply again right now if I want to. Something fishy…..
Same thing happened to me. I hit send multiple times but never got a thank you screen.
I think this is only being rolled out to Apple users for some reason. Nobody I know on Android is seeing it.
I was wondering if that was it, Tim! Thanks for sharing. They didn’t mention it would ONLY be iOS, so probably our Android friends won’t have long to wait.
so does this mean if i sign in on a friends apple phone that i can see it ???
At the end -after you upload a photo of your ID and click send, does it continue to say send? I clicked twice and it still says send. Thanks for this info!
Hmm, I got a “We’ll let you know once we’ve reviewed your request for a verified badge.” message. I’d say if you didn’t get one, it didn’t go through. They may be a bit overwhelmed at the moment! I haven’t had a reply yet, but a friend of mine who applied after me did – and he was rejected. 🙁 You’re welcome!
I was also rejected. :/
I have exactly the same problem, it still says send.
Mine still says send and I’ve clicked it a dozen times. Anyone experience this but finally get it to go through?
I use an Android phone and don’t see the option, but I’ll keep checking. Thanks for the head’s up!
That has to be the common thread! You’re welcome 🙂
For some reason when i hit send nothing happens it looks like it’s loading but then it doesn’t go past go to that page
Hearing this from several people. I could believe that they are just completely inundated with requests today!
Thanks for sharing. I just did. I own registered mark on my brand. Hopefully I get verified badge soon. Some members in our community just got it like that without having tons of followers or doing anything.
Hopefully we all legit people have it soon.
I hope so, too. Do you know of anyone with fewer than 10K who has it? You’re welcome.
What document did you provide for business account to get varyfied? Thanks!
Do you think they will accept a driver’s license with the ID number blacked out? As long as I leave the name and DOB alone?
Hmmm, not sure. You could try. You can try again in a month if you get rejected the first time.
Nothing yet for my accounts…but I’ll keep watching!
I’m using Apple Phone and when I hit submit the 1st time nothing happened. I had to press the button 3 more times before it said thank you we’ve received your request.
Does this only work once for linked accounts? I applied for my personal account first, which is fine bc I don’t use the other that much. But I thought I’d be able to apply for the biz one as well since the username matches my website. It was grayed out and showed my main account name in the username box.
I do have more followers on the biz one, so should be interesting to see what happens.
Huh, that’s interesting, Louise! Perhaps it will verify both? Let us know!
I was able to apply for the other via a different device. Both were turned down in about 2 days. Apparently there’s a long list of criteria that you don’t see until you’re rejected! I don’t think I meet ANY of them!
I got rejected as well. I think Instagram doesn’t know how notable we are – yet. 😉
I do not see the option to get verified.
Should be rolling out.
I have the option, but it defaults to my personal profile username (even though I’m logged into my business account) and I can’t seem to change it. Also, I’ve hit “send” a few times with no confirmation. So, its either not going through or they’ve received half a dozen requests from me 🙂
It is not available for everyone and is expected to be rolled out slowly to more users.
Oooh, thanks for sharing this. Exciting! I’m on Android and don’t see the option yet, so I’ll wait patiently until it does show up. It would be great to be able to use links in stories before hitting 10k!
You’re welcome! I’m excited, too! Exactly – I may never hit 10K 🙂
I dont have that..request verification in my insta
Should be rolling out soon!
At the moment this is not working for me and my account, but I will keep it in mind. Thank you so much for sharing it!
You’re welcome, Caroline! I’m still waiting for an answer – not really expecting to be approved, but we will see!
I cannot see anywhere on my account to verify it – I’m in the UK – are we able to do it here?
Are you on an Android device, Louise? That seems to be a common thread among those not yet seeing the option. It should be rolling out to everyone soon.
It’s not showing up on mine, I am in the UK maybe that’s why
Are you on an Android device, Jenny? That seems to be a common thread among those not yet seeing the option.
Hi! I would like to verify both accounts that I have – blog and personal account. Can I use the same ID on the verify process??
Hi Ana. I’m not sure! I would try it.
Hey Alisa, did you get a reply from the verification team yet? I applied the day after it was introduced and still no answer for me.
I did! I got rejected. 🙁
My main concern how they will be dealing with and storing all that personal info. With so many fraud cases lately and my bank account being hacked in twice already, I am pretty worried to provide my ID cards to verify my social media account.
Definitely a valid concern!
How safe is our personal information?
Definitely worth considering.
This isn’t showing up on mine 😞
I’d definitely request it once it’s available. For some reason that blue tick really helps with getting opportunities and brand sponsorships.
Laura ☆ laurahasablog.co.uk
i requested a couple days ago. hopefully they consider that my facebook is verified
[…] Source link […]
[…] you have over 10,000 followers on Instagram or have a verified Instagram account, you can use the swipe up link in Stories. Otherwise, direct your followers to your link in […]
[…] social proof is helpful for getting verified on Instagram, promoting your business, getting collabs and reaching new […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] You have access to Instagram Link in Stories – Verified accounts were the first to be able to add links to their Instagram Stories. Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you're about! via […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you're about! via […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you're about! via […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you're about! via […]
[…] You have access to Instagram Link in Stories – Verified accounts were the first to be able to add links to their Instagram Stories. Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] You have access to Instagram Link in Stories – Verified accounts were the first to be able to add links to their Instagram Stories. Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] social proof is helpful for getting verified on Instagram, promoting your business, getting collabs and reaching new […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] What is a Verified Badge on Instagram? You've seen the little blue checkmark next to some of your favorite IG account names. This blue symbol ( a seal with a check in the center) means that the account is officially verified by Instagram. People, brands, and businesses with the Instagram verified badge are authentic. via […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] You have access to Instagram Link in Stories – Verified accounts were the first to be able to add links to their Instagram Stories. Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. via […]
[…] you have over 10,000 followers on Instagram or have a verified Instagram account, you can use the swipe up link in Stories. Otherwise, direct your followers to your link in […]
[…] Without verification, you'll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you're somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you're about! via […]
[…] an Instagram Stories post about your event! If you have over 10K followers or are verified on Instagram, include a swipe-up link to your event. If you don’t have the Swipe Up feature in yet, here’s a […]
[…] Without verification, you’ll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you’re somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you’re about! via […]
[…] Without verification, you’ll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you’re somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you’re about! via […]
[…] You have access to Instagram Link in Stories – Verified accounts were the first to be able to add links to their Instagram Stories. Without verification, you’ll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you’re somebody. via […]
[…] While there’s no required number of followers to be Instagram verified, you’ll definitely seem more notable with a higher number of followers. To increase your odds of getting a blue checkmark next to your name, keep on building your reach and growing your engaged followers. via […]
[…] You have access to Instagram Link in Stories – Verified accounts were the first to be able to add links to their Instagram Stories. Without verification, you’ll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you’re somebody. via […]
[…] You have access to Instagram Link in Stories – Verified accounts were the first to be able to add links to their Instagram Stories. Without verification, you’ll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you’re somebody. via […]
[…] While there’s no required number of followers to be Instagram verified, you’ll definitely seem more notable with a higher number of followers. To increase your odds of getting a blue checkmark next to your name, keep on building your reach and growing your engaged followers. via […]
[…] Without verification, you’ll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you’re somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you’re about! via […]
[…] Without verification, you’ll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you’re somebody. With a blue check, people are going to be buzzing to know who you are and what you’re about! via […]
[…] You have access to Instagram Link in Stories – Verified accounts were the first to be able to add links to their Instagram Stories. Without verification, you’ll need at least 10,000 followers to access the feature. It builds brand awareness – As we mentioned before, the blue check tells the world that you’re somebody. via […]
[…] There are no requirements for an Instagram Creator account, the way there are for say, getting verified on Instagram. […]
[…] social proof is helpful for getting verified on Instagram, promoting your business, getting collabs and reaching new […]
[…] have to have a certain number of followers, although Instagram accounts with 10,000 followers or Instagram verified accounts enjoy some special perks. The main one is being able to upload a 60-minute […]
[…] Reference 3 […]
[…] You've seen the little blue checkmark next to some of your favorite IG account names. This blue symbol ( a seal with a check in the center) means that the account is officially verified by Instagram. People, brands, and businesses with the Instagram verified badge are authentic. via […]
[…] Instagram’s features nailed down, you are ready to apply to be verified. The application process to get Instagram verified is actually relatively easy and includes the following […]
[…] Source link […]
[…] Reference 6 […]
[…] Quote from the source: … […]
[…] Reference 6 […]
[…] Reference 3 […]
[…] Reference 4 […]
[…] Reference 3 […]
[…] What does the blue arrow mean on Instagram? […]
[…] What does the blue icon mean on Instagram? […]
[…] What does the blue arrow mean on Instagram? […]
[…] What does the little blue arrow mean on Instagram? […]
[…] a blue check, a mark of “authenticity” that Instagram gives to “notable people and brands,” considered by many to be a “status […]
[…] How to Get Verified on Instagram: 7 Easy Steps – Tailwind App […]
[…] How to Get Verified on Instagram: 7 Easy Steps – Tailwind App […]
[…] What does the blue arrow mean on Instagram? […]
[…] What does the blue arrow mean on Instagram? […]
[…] What does the blue arrow mean on Instagram? […]
[…] How many followers do u need to be verified? […]
[…] How many followers do u need to be verified? […]
[…] How many followers do you need to be verified? […]
[…] How many followers do you need to be verified? […]
[…] How many followers do u need to be verified? […]
[…] How many followers do u need to be verified? […]
[…] personal evidence is actually valuable for getting verified on Instagram, ensuring your enterprise, acquiring collabs and also hitting brand-new […]
[…] to have actually a particular many fans, though Instagram accounts with 10,000 followers otherwise Instagram verified accounts take pleasure in some particular perks. The fundamental a person is having the ability to publish a […]