Everyone sees the attractive blue checkmarks next to various accounts on Instagram. But, so few of us know how to get it for ourselves. Luckily, getting verified on Instagram isn’t that hard. And, if you’re a brand, you should definitely consider doing it. By earning the elusive blue checkmark, you can avoid imposter accounts, help people find you more easily, and be recognized as an “authentic presence” on social media.
Keep reading for a quick, step by step guide, on how to get verified on Instagram!
Step 1: Request Verification
This is as simple as logging into your account, going to your account settings, and selecting “request verification”. You will be able to do this in both personal and business accounts.
Step 2: Confirming your Identity
After selecting “request verification” you will need to fill out your information, including your legal name, the name most people know you by, and your category. There may not be a perfect category fit for your brand. If that’s the case, pick the one that makes the most sense for your account.
Step 3: Upload your Credentials
After filling out the identity form, you will be prompted to upload some documentation. For a personal account, this means submitting a photo of a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport. For a business account, this means uploading an official business document such as tax documentation or a utility bill with your business’s name on it. You will need to verify that the name on the ID or documents match what you submitted in the identity form!
Step 4: Send!
It’s that simple! After uploading and filling out the above requirements, all you’ll need to do is submit your verification request. After that, the rest of the process falls into Instagram’s hands. The timeline for verification can vary, it can range from a few days to over a month if there is an influx of submissions.
Please note, that submitting a verification request doesn’t ensure that you or your brand will be verified. Instagram states that, “submitting a request for verification does not guarantee that your account will be verified.” However, there are a few things you can do to increase your odds. These steps include having a presence outside of Instagram, posting to your profile often, increasing your follower count, completing your Instagram bio with accurate/up to date info, and avoiding linking your Instagram profile to other channels.
Also, if you get denied verification the first time, definitely try again! Sometimes it takes a second or third time!
Once you do become verified, it’s important to continue these best practices, otherwise, you risk losing your precious blue checkmark! Instagram can revoke your verification at any time. This means it is important to always follow their terms of service and community guidelines.
If you have questions about your brand’s social media pages, contact us! Our digital team would be happy to help you with any and all of your social media needs.
By Kateri Bean
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Easy Steps for Getting Verified on Instagram
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