How to get verified on instagram for free 2020
How to Get Verified on Instagram in 2023 [6 Simple Steps]
If you want to know how to get verified on Instagram, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll tell you how to apply for that coveted blue badge (that’s the easy part) and provide some tips to help you qualify (that’s the hard part).
What does Instagram verification mean?
Who can get verified on Instagram?
How to get verified on Instagram in 6 steps
10 tips to get verified on Instagram
Instagram verification FAQ
Bonus: 14 Time-Saving Hacks for Instagram Power Users. Get the list of secret shortcuts Hootsuite’s own social media team uses to create thumb-stopping content.
What does Instagram verification mean?
Instagram verification is the process of getting a blue checkmark badge that tells other users on the platform that an account really belongs to the user, artist, brand, or organization it represents.
You’ve probably seen plenty of verification badges around. As with Twitter, Facebook and, yes, Tinder, the little blue checkmarks are meant to indicate that the platform has confirmed the account in question is trustworthy, or at least they are who they say they are.
These badges are designed to make the real accounts stand out, so that Instagram users can be sure they’re following the right person or brand. They’re easy to spot in search results and on profiles, and they convey authority.
Source: @creators
It’s easy to see why verification badges are also a coveted status symbol. They’re rare, and exclusivity lends a certain amount of prestige—which may or may not translate to better engagement.
That said, Instagram is clear that verified accounts (just like business accounts) don’t get special treatment from the Instagram algorithm. In other words: if it is true that verified accounts earn higher engagement on average, it’s because they’re posting great content that resonates with their audience.
Who can get verified on Instagram?
Anyone can request a verified badge on Instagram. However, Instagram is notoriously picky (and in many ways mysterious) about who actually gets verified. So, if you’re running an account that’s right on the cusp of “notable,” how do you know if you meet the criteria?
Just because you have a blue checkmark on Twitter or Facebook, for instance, doesn’t guarantee you’ll get one on Instagram.
Instagram is blunt, saying that “Only some public figures, celebrities, and brands have verified badges on Instagram.” In other words: “only accounts with a high likelihood of being impersonated.”
Here is what we do know about eligibility.
First, you must adhere to the network’s Terms of Service and Community Guidelines. On top of that, your account must meet each of these criteria:
- Authentic: does your account represent a real person, registered business, or brand? You cannot be a meme page or a fan account.
- Unique: only one account per person or business can get Instagram verified, with exceptions for language-specific accounts.
- Public: private Instagram accounts do not qualify for verification.
- Complete: do you have a complete bio, profile picture, and at least one post?
- Notable: this is where things get subjective, but Instagram defines a notable name as one that is “well-known” and “highly searched for.”
If you’re relatively confident you meet these criteria, or you just feel like rolling the dice, it’s time to go ahead and verify your Instagram account.
How to get verified on Instagram in 6 steps
If you’re a visual learner, watch our video that covers everything you need to know about getting verified on Instagram. Otherwise, keep reading!
The verification process on Instagram is actually quite simple:
- Go to your Instagram profile and tap the hamburger icon in the top right corner
- Tap Settings
- Tap Account
- Tap Request Verification
- Fill in the application form.
- Your legal name
- Your “known as” or working name (if applicable)
- Select your category or industry (for example: blogger/influencer, sports, news/media, business/brand/organization, etc.)
- You also need to submit a photo of your official government ID. For individuals, that could be a driver’s license or passport. For businesses, a utility bill, an official business document, or tax filings will do.
- Tap Send.
According to Instagram, after their team reviews your application, you’ll receive a response in your notifications tab.
Because of historical and ongoing issues with scammers, Instagram is very clear that they will never email you, ask for money, or otherwise reach out.
Within a few days or a week (some say it can take up to 30 days), you’ll receive a direct yes or no. No feedback or explanation.
This is what a no looks like:
And here’s a yes, break out the bubbly:
10 tips to get verified on Instagram
So, yes, anyone can apply for verification on Instagram. But actually getting approved is a lot tougher.
We’ve gone ahead and compiled all the best practices that will maximize your chances of getting verified as you move forward with your quest to prove your brand’s noteworthiness.
1. Don’t try to buy an Instagram verification badge
We’ll get this one out of the way first: that guy in your comments who says his friend works for Instagram? Please do not give him money.
The same goes for any third-party app or random account that offers “full refunds.
” And for any random account that DMs you because they want to sell you their badge because they “don’t need it anymore.”
Instagram scammers know that people and businesses feel outsized emotions about the blue check, and some are pretty effective at appearing legit, so stay on your guard. And remember that Instagram will never request payment, and will never contact you.
Tl;dr: The only way to get verified is through the official form, unless you are Jennifer Aniston (in which case, scroll down to Tip #7: Work with an agency or publicist, or maybe stop reading this article entirely because you’re doing great!).
2. Monitor for impostor accounts
If you’re struggling with persistent unauthorized, fake, or fan accounts impersonating your brand, then we have good news for you. You’re a prime candidate for verification on Instagram. After all, distinguishing real accounts from fake ones is verification’s stated purpose.
Your annual social media audit should make it clear whether impostor accounts are a problem for you.
You’ll want to monitor and document these accounts using a social media monitoring tool like Zerofox’s Hootsuite integration.
3. Get more (real) followers
Look, we don’t have the numbers but it honestly feels sometimes like you need a ridiculous number of followers in order to get verified. There is absolutely no evidence that this is a real rule, but—it can’t hurt? Or maybe correlation does not imply causation after all?
Actually, what is more likely is that as people or brands get more noteworthy on and off Instagram, follower counts rise alongside.
If you want to hedge your bets and play it both ways—chicken and egg—here’s some inspiration for how to get more Instagram followers.
Pro Tip: Just don’t try to take a shortcut and buy your Instagram followers. (Plus, breaking the Community Guidelines and then asking Instagram to examine your account is a very effective way to get your account shut down.)
4. Delete any cross-platform links in your bio
In what some might call a slightly petty move (we would never dare), Instagram insists that verified accounts can’t have so-called “add me” links to other social media services in their Instagram profiles.
You can include links to your website, landing pages, or other online properties, just definitely don’t link to your YouTube or Twitter account.
On the other hand, if you have a blue checkmark on your Facebook profile but not on your Instagram account, Instagram does explicitly encourage you to link to your Instagram account from your Facebook page to help prove your authenticity.
5. Be highly-searched for
Social media is all about serendipitous, organic discovery (this is what the Instagram Explore page is for, anyway—and making it big there can have a real impact on your engagement and follower count).
But when it comes to verification, Instagram wants to know if people care about you enough to tear themselves away from the seductions of the feed and spontaneously type your name into the search bar.
While Instagram doesn’t provide analytics on this data, we’d put money on the fact that Instagram’s verification team does have access, and will check up on how often users are searching for you.
Which leads us to our next point…
6. Apply when your name is in the news
Google yourself. Has your brand been featured in multiple news sources? Did a recent press release or white paper get picked up? Do you have a sound bite or a profile in a major international publication? Paid or promotional content definitely does not count.
If PR hasn’t been a priority for your brand thus far, you might have a more difficult time proving how “notable” you are. Especially because there’s no place to submit your proof: Instagram does its own research, so it’s up to you to make sure your news is above the fold and impossible to ignore.
If you’ve recently experienced a windfall of attention, or you’re planning a big announcement, think about capitalizing on it and applying for that checkmark while your name is hot.
7. Work with an agency or publicist
If you have the budget and the ambition, hire a reputable digital agency that has access to Facebook’s Media Partner Support tools.
Your publicist or agent will be able to submit requests to claim usernames, merge accounts, and get accounts verified through their industry-only portal.
Is verification guaranteed? Of course not. But a request from an industry professional through the Media Partner Support panel carries more weight and distinguishes you from the crowd.
8. Be honest
This tip should be a no-brainer, but because the consequences are dire we feel compelled to highlight it. In your application to be verified, you have to be truthful above all else.
Use your real name. Choose an appropriate category. Definitely don’t falsify any government documents.
If you stretch the truth anywhere in your application, Instagram says that it will not only deny your request, but it may delete your account as well.
9. Make sure your profile and bio are complete and effective
Instagram’s listed requirements for verification (a bio, a profile pic and one post? really?) are a low bar.
You don’t just want to meet it. You want to hurtle over it.
Optimizing your Instagram bio will not just impress the verification team when they come to check you out, but can pay ongoing dividends in the form of new followers and conversions.
10. If you’re turned down the first time, try again
If, after all your hard work, Instagram comes back with a rejection, embrace the opportunity to zero in on your goals and redouble your efforts.
Hone your Instagram strategy, build a dedicated following, and earn buzz off the platform as well.
And then, whether you wait the 30 required days or spend a few fiscal quarters hitting your KPIs, you can apply again.
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Instagram verification FAQ
How many followers do you need to get verified on Instagram?
Technically, there is no minimum follower count for getting verified on Instagram.
As long as you are able to prove that you are a “notable,” or highly searched for, person (or your account represents a widely recognized business or organization), you can get your account verified regardless of your number of followers.
How much does it cost to get IG verified?
Instagram verification is free. Instagram will never ask for payment for the verification badge, and if someone is offering to verify your account for money, they are trying to scam you.
How do you get a blue check on Instagram without being famous?
To get a blue check on Instagram, you have to prove that your account may be impersonated because you are a notable public figure or represent a widely recognized organization.
Save time managing your Instagram presence by using Hootsuite to schedule and publish posts, grow your audience, and track success with easy-to-use analytics—all from the same dashboard that you run your other social media profiles on. Try it free today.
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Get Verified on Instagram for FREE (2020)
Today, I’ll show you how to get verified on Instagram.
⚠️ If you want to see the latest updates on this post, read the original one posted on my blog.
2019 update: Now anyone can request an official verification badge directly through Instagram. Don’t believe anyone selling you verification. I don’t and I never did. I also don’t work at/for Instagram, so won’t be able to help you troubleshoot any of your problems. You can contact Instagram support following this guide.
Before we dive into how to get verified, it’s important that you know who can get verified.
What are the requirements to get verified on Instagram?
Instagram looks at 4 factors to determine whether your account is worthy of the blue badge. These are:
- Authenticity: Your account must represent a real person, registered business or entity.
- Uniqueness: Your account must be the unique presence of the person or business it represents. Only one account per person or business may be verified, with exceptions for language-specific accounts. Compilation accounts or accounts that don’t post original content won’t be verified (e.g. rap videos, funny memes, fan pages, etc).
- Completeness: Your account privacy must be set to public. It should also have a bio, profile photo and at least one post (more posts is better). Your profile can't contain "add me" links to other social media services.
- Noteworthiness: Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched for person, brand or entity. They want accounts that are featured in multiple news sources, and don't consider paid or promotional content as sources for review.
(see step #1 below)
Also, needless to say, your account also needs to follow Instagram's Terms of Service and Community Guidelines.
Now let’s get to the fun part...
2 steps to apply for verification on IG
If you already have significant press written about you, skip to step number 2.
1. Get PR about you or your brand
Only select people on Instagram are handed a verification badge as I explained above. Those include celebrities, musicians, actors, and people with large followings and press in real life.
Pro tips to supercharge your press
Instagram will attempt to verify your noteworthiness to see if you are qualified for a blue checkmark.
While their exact efforts are not divulged, it’s likely they will search your name/username on Google and try to see if you have been covered in many publications.
If you don’t have much press, message me and I can get you featured in my 2 other blogs (Future Sharks and So Influential). [Ask me about my bundle pricing :) ].
Here are other tips to get on Forbes, Mashable, Techcrunch and others.
2. Use the IG app to apply for verification directly
Follow the following steps on the IG app to request a verified badge:
- Make sure you're logged in to the account you're requesting a verified badge for.
- Go to your profile and tap .
- TapSettings > Account > Request Verification.
- Enter your full name and provide the required form of identification (example: government-issued photo ID).
FAQ
What is a verified badge on Instagram?
From Instagram: “A verified badge is a check that appears next to an Instagram account's name in search and on the profile. It means Instagram has confirmed that an account is the authentic presence of the public figure, celebrity or global brand it represents”.
How much does IG verification cost? Do I need to pay anything?
It’s free. Instagram doesn’t charge or request payment for verification.
Please apply directly through IG and don’t use any third party.
How many followers do you need to get verified on Instagram?
There’s no minimum. However, having more followers definitely helps, so read this guide to increase your IG follower count.
What happens after you apply for a blue checkmark?
After you apply for verification, Instagram will let you know in a span of 1-2 weeks whether your account was verified or not.
Can you reapply for verification if you are denied?
Yes, you will just need to wait 30 days since your last decision.
How many accounts can I get verified?
In most cases, only one account per person with the exception of super large brands (think Costco and Costco California) or accounts in multiple languages (CNN, CNN español).
Is the badge permanent?
As long as you follow Instagram’s terms of service, yes.
However, they might remove your verification (or even disable your account) if you:
- Advertise, transfer or sell your verified badge.
- Use your profile picture, bio or name section to promote other services.
- Attempt to verify your account through a third party.
Keep in mind that if you provide false or misleading information during the verification process, we will remove your verified badge and may take additional action to delete your account.
What if you are not able to be verified?
It won’t be the end of the world. For the most part, the verification is just for ego-stroking.
There are also other ways to make sure people find your official Instagram account. For instance, you can add it on your Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, Linkedin, emails, website, etc.
What are the benefits of getting verified?
Your account will gain more trust in the eyes of your followers, helping you fend off any impersonators, cloned accounts, and others. It will also appear higher in searches.
If you want to learn more about Verification Badges, read Instagram’s support page.
Conclusion
That’s how you apply for verification on Instagram.
If you were successful in following these steps, please drop a comment with your username so I can check it out and give you a follow! (while you are here, also follow me @YoungSlacker!)
Keep in mind that even if your account is eligible for verification, submitting a request doesn't guarantee that your account will be verified.
Here are other posts you should read:
- How to get verified on Facebook
- Guide to get more Instagram followers
- Need to contact IG to get an update on your verification application?
If you liked this post, please give it a like and drop a comment below!
How to get verified on Instagram in 2022
We bet you have seen a blue tick next to the name on the accounts of celebrities, popular bloggers and brands more than once? We understand why it is needed, what benefits it gives and how to get it.
What is verification
Blue check marks on Instagram are official verified accounts. It confirms that this page is not fake, but really belongs to the individual or brand. It looks like this:
Why verification is needed
1. Identity or project verification
Accounts of actors, bands, athletes, brands, media, websites, government agencies, and even official pages of cities can receive verification.
2. Increasing the credibility of the page
And preventing fake twin accounts that scammers can use.
3. Monetization
Verified accounts that host ads can charge higher prices for ads. But this is more about a personal brand than business accounts of companies. nine0003
| Remember that the blue checkmark does not mean increased priority for displaying posts in the user's feed, access to technical support, additional account protection from hacking, or other privileges. |
How to get verification: instructions
First of all, the page should not violate the rules of using Instagram and comply with the user agreement.
The chances of getting verified increase if your account is:
- Authentic
Represents a real person, company or organization.
- Unique
The only exception applies to accounts of the same brand in different languages.
- Full
With all the necessary information in the profile, as well as previously posted publications.
- Noticeable
Users should be interested in your profile, and your company should also be mentioned in several different news sources besides Instagram itself. nine0003
Algorithm for getting a tick on Instagram for a company:
- Open "Settings", then "Account" and select "Request confirmation".
- Confirm the existence of the company and ownership of the account. To do this, indicate the real name and surname of the owner, attach an identity card, upload documents on registration of a legal entity or other materials that can confirm the authenticity of the company.
- Send an application for consideration and wait for a response from Facebook. nine0066
Not all accounts can become "Favorites". Instagram considers each application separately and decides whether to reward the profile with a blue tick or not.
Tips for getting a verification checkmark
A few important points in the end or how to manage Instagram so as not to be denied verification:
1. Link pages to Instagram in other social networks.
This will help confirm the authenticity of the account and the active presence of the brand on the Internet. nine0003
2. Do not use cheat services.
During verification, the account is carefully checked. If he was previously convicted of unfair promotion, then the blue checkmark does not shine for you.
3. Post a variety of content regularly.
The more and more actively your account develops, the more favorable Instagram will be. A profile with multiple photos will definitely be denied verification.
4. Clean up spam.
Even if you promoted your account according to all the rules, sometimes you need to clean it from spam comments and dubious followers. When considering an application for verification, Instagram looks not only at the quality of the content, but also at the subscribers.
5. Grow an active audience.
The more your account will be mentioned in posts, stories, write adequate comments or drive in the search, the more likely that Instagram will approve verification.
Submitting a request for verification of your Instagram account is easy. Especially for large companies. All the main work is for the brand before the application is submitted. nine0003
Instagram verification FAQ
This is a confirmation of the authenticity of the account. The verification badge looks like a white check mark on a blue round background on the profile next to the username.
It is also visible in all posts and is displayed next to the nickname in the search.
Everyone. Both companies and famous personalities.
It will protect against the creation of fake accounts, give visibility and significantly increase the trust of users. Verified accounts can post external links in Stories even if they have less than 10,000 followers. nine0003
Send a formal request to Facebook and wait for a decision.
The account must represent a real company or person. It should be an active Instagram account, visible in the media space, with high activity and regular posting. Check out our tips for getting verified.
There is no official minimum number of subscribers. However, the more active your account and coverage, the higher the probability of getting a verification badge.
Directly on Instagram in the "Settings" section. Detailed guide in this article. nine0003
Yes. Always and for everyone.
Facebook usually considers the application for several days.
Don't get discouraged and try to apply again. This is possible after 30 days after the refusal.
Yes, if you violate the terms of use or misuse your account.
Only advice. The final decision on awarding the verification checkmark remains with Instagram.
How to get verified on Instagram. Get a blue tick
There's one elusive social media status symbol that you can't buy that makes it highly desirable and extremely valuable: the blue checkmark icon to verify your identity on Instagram.
A February 2020 study found that 73.4% of Instagram accounts with over 1 million followers are verified. Of the next group (from 100,000 to a million followers), 22.4% were verified accounts. When examining accounts with 1,000 to 5,000 followers, only 0.87% is confirmed. nine0003
You can ask yourself one question: " How do I verify my account? ". Most social media services have some sort of "verification" process for getting the almighty blue tick on your profile.
But why do you need to be verified? And how hard is it? This guide will answer these questions and help you understand the Instagram verification process so that you can also verify your account.
Why get verified on Instagram? nine0012
The data suggests that most of the large Instagram accounts are verified. As your Instagram profile grows, you'll want to get verified to stand out from the competition. Verified accounts are more trustworthy than unverified ones and have a 30% higher engagement rate on average.
The main reason the verification badge exists is to make sure account holders are who they say they are. The blue checkmark on your profile shows followers and visitors that you are a real account and not a fake account. This inspires confidence. The blue checkmark is also a status symbol that shows users that your account deserves attention. nine0003
You have access to special functions. One of the most desired features for brands and influencers is the Swipe Up feature. Link exchange in Instagram Stories can improve your Instagram marketing through more engagement and conversions. Usually you need at least 10,000 subscribers, but if you pass the verification, you can use this feature no matter how many subscribers you have.
Verified accounts are higher in the search. This means you are more likely to attract new followers directly from search results (in the Instagram app) and increase brand awareness. nine0003
With all these great benefits, you're probably thinking it's going to be pretty hard to pass the test. But is it?
Is it hard to get verified on Instagram?
The good news is that applying for Instagram verification is very easy (as you will see in the guide below). The not-so-good news is that it can actually be difficult to get approved.
It's no secret how Instagram checks accounts. Its recommendations outline the requirements that your account must meet. nine0003
Authentic.
Because you must be a real person, public figure or registered legal entity. You will need official business documents and ID to prove it.
Unique. You cannot have multiple accounts for the same person or company (unless they are tied to a specific language). Instagram also doesn't check memes or fan accounts.
Complete. At a minimum, your Instagram profile must be public, have a bio, profile picture, and be active when applying.
Noticeable. This is the most difficult moment that most people face. Being visible means that your account name represents a "famous, in-demand" person or brand. Instagram checks accounts that feature multiple news sources but don't contain paid or sponsored content. nine0003
How to get verified status on Instagram
1. Start your request
Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
Once you're on your profile page, click on the "hamburger" icon (three lines) in the top right corner and select "Settings". On the settings page at the bottom you will see the option "Request Verification". Touch it and you are ready for step 2.
2. Add your company information
From there, you will need to fill in information about your business, such as: Your full name (or trade name), which you will need to support with photo ID, such as a driver's license, or business documents, such as registration papers or utility bills (for physical stores).
Prominence, which is confirmed by the choice of your industry category and target audience. You will also need to list trademarks by which you may also be known. nine0003
Supporting links that will help prove your notoriety. Here you can provide links to other verified social media accounts if you have any, news or press releases that feature your brand, your website, or other (non-sponsored) links that you think might be up to date.
3. Submit your application
Once you have filled in the confirmation application details, click "Submit", and congratulations: you have submitted your application. nine0003
Within 30 days, Instagram will notify you in the activity feed whether your application was successful or not. If so, you'll get an Instagram confirmation badge right away.
Verification Tips
Before you apply for the coveted blue badge, keep the following tips in mind to increase your chances of getting a verified Instagram account:
under what circumstances Instagram does not allow users to buy, sell, or otherwise transfer a verified badge. If you see an account that advertises the ability to get it for free or for a "small fee", don't be "followed" by this scam. nine0003 Use Instagram responsibly. Don't try questionable tactics like buying badges, followers, likes, or comments. Otherwise, your account may be blocked. Get real followers Don't buy Instagram followers. Here are some ways to get more followers on Instagram: Instagram followers are more than just a number, they are your community. Even if you don't pass the verification, real followers will help increase your website traffic, increase your sales, and increase your influence in your industry. nine0003 Complete your profile All verified accounts have one thing in common: completed profiles. What to do if you are not verified Even if you follow all the tips above, there is still a chance that Instagram will not approve your application. So what happens then? Try the following steps: Double check verification requirements As simple as it sounds, it's worth double-checking the four basic requirements we saw earlier: authenticity, uniqueness, completeness, and visibility. Make sure you have the most appropriate business document for authentication. Be sure to delete any old accounts you may have created. Compare your profile completion rate with those who have already passed the test. Wait and apply again If your verification request is denied by Instagram, all is not lost. Give yourself this month to figure out how to improve your chances using the tips above instead of hoping you get approved within the next 30 days without any changes. nine0003 Other Ways to Show Authenticity If you still can't get approved for the blue check, there are other ways to show your brand's authenticity without it. Instagram recommends that you link your account to an official website, Facebook page, YouTube channel or Twitter account to show that you are the true owner of your brand. Another way to show your authenticity is to create video content about you or your team. nine0003 Showcasing what your business looks like day in and day out is a great way to build trust and follow multi-format content recommendations to grow your following. Don't be discouraged if you can't pass verification Earning a verification badge on Instagram (or any other social network, for that matter) is an important milestone for your business.
Focus on genuine, organic growth for your account. It's easy to buy followers, but you'll have low engagement. These "followers" are often bots or inactive accounts so they don't interact with your brand. Not participating means that your posts will not appear on the research pages or in your audience's feeds. nine0003
A concise and clear Instagram biography, a vibrant profile photo, an external link (either to a website or a link tree linking to multiple sites), and well-crafted story highlights. 
You can reapply after 30 days. However, be patient - repeated applications within 30 days will mean that the request will be cancelled. 
