To establish top-tier credibility for your brand on social media, understanding how to get verified on Instagram is crucial. Earning that coveted blue checkmark assures everyone that your account is authentic, making it significantly harder for imposters to create fake profiles.
While applying for Instagram verification is straightforward, we noticed some differences between the official instructions and the actual process. To simplify things, we’ve outlined a step-by-step guide and included helpful tips to increase your chances of getting your verified account application approved.
Contents
- What does it mean to be verified on Instagram?
- Why is Instagram verification helpful?
- Can anyone get verified on Instagram?
- 6 steps to apply for Instagram verification
- Tips to get verified on Instagram
- Instagram verification FAQs
What does it mean to be verified on Instagram?
The significance of Instagram verification has evolved. Introduced in 2018, the blue verification check initially served to safeguard high-profile accounts from impersonation, instilling trust in users about the accounts they followed.
However, things have changed with Mark Zuckerberg announced, a subscription service named Meta Verified that allows anyone to obtain the blue badge for a monthly fee, regardless of their prominence.
It’s important to note that Meta Verified is unavailable for brands. So, if you’re a brand social media manager or a business owner seeking verification, you’ll need to earn the check through the established method (explained below).
Regardless of how the blue badge is obtained, its presence on an Instagram bio signifies that Instagram has reviewed the account and confirmed its legitimacy.
Verification badges also appear in searches, aiding users in “finding the genuine accounts of individuals and brands,” as stated by according to Instagram.
These distinct blue checkmarks occupy prominent positions, differentiating authentic accounts from potential fan or fake accounts that might appear similar.
Why get verified on Instagram?
Initially challenging to obtain, Instagram verification badges have become a mark of distinction. However, for brands, the benefits of the blue checkmark extend beyond mere status.
- Protection against impersonation: Instagram actively monitors for and takes action against imposters of verified accounts.
- Priority customer support: Verified accounts have access to dedicated human customer support.
- Potential for increased visibility: While Instagram’s stance on this has been inconsistent, there’s a possibility that verified accounts may appear higher in search results. The precise advantages Instagram offers verified accounts are evolving alongside the new Meta Verified program. However, at a minimum, blue-check accounts enjoy greater trust compared to their unverified counterparts.
Can anyone get verified on Instagram?
The application for Instagram verification is open to individuals, brands, and organizations. Individuals can now choose to pay Meta a fee and go through a brief process their badge. However, brands and organizations must still adhere to the original guidelines, demonstrating to Instagram that their account fulfills these criteria:
- Adherence to guidelines: Your account must comply with Instagram’s Terms of Use and Community Guidelines.
- Authenticity: Your account must represent a real individual, business, or organization, not a fictitious or fan-created account.
- Uniqueness: Your account must be the sole representation of a specific individual or brand, although separate accounts for different languages may be permitted.
- Completeness: Your profile must include a comprehensive bio, a profile picture, and at least one post.
- Public visibility: Your account must be set to public to be considered for verification.
- Notability: You or your brand must be frequently searched for, well-known, and featured in news sources. Contrary to popular belief, follower count is not a prerequisite for Instagram verification, so don’t hesitate to apply with a new account if you believe you satisfy the criteria mentioned above.
Instagram is a great way to promote your business. Get more ideas and tips in this guide >> 30 Best Ways to Promote Your Business6 steps to apply for Instagram verification
Submitting the Instagram verification application only takes a few minutes. However, we discovered some inconsistencies between the process and Instagram says they do. Step 1: Log into your Instagram account and tap your profile picture Ensure you’re using the mobile app, as some features are inaccessible on desktops. Step 2: Tap the Hamburger icon in the upper right
Step 3: Go to Settings and Privacy
Step 4: Go to Business Tools and Controls
While Instagram’s instructions suggest tapping “Account,” our professional account required us to tap “Business tools and controls.”
Step 5: Tap Request Verification
Step 6: Fill out the application
The application consists of several sections.
Begin by providing your name and submitting a document verifying your identity. Acceptable documents include a driver’s license, tax filing, recent utility bill, and a few others as specified by Instagram.
Next, choose a category that best represents your account, such as sports, music, or fashion, along with the country where you’re most recognized. You can also provide a brief description of your audience, including their demographics and why they follow you.
Lastly, include links to news articles or social media accounts that demonstrate your public relevance. This is your opportunity to substantiate your notoriety.
Click “Submit,” and you’re all set!
Instagram will send a response to your notifications tab within a few days, potentially taking up to a month.
Use these tips to get verified on Instagram
Completing the Instagram verification form is easy, but getting approved is the real challenge. Implement these tips to boost your chances of securing the coveted blue badge.
Create a killer bio and profile
Instagram clearly states that a complete profile is mandatory for verification. We recommend going beyond the bare minimum and optimizing your Instagram bio to make it captivating. A well-crafted bio not only impresses Instagram’s verification team but also enhances your standing with profile visitors.
Moreover, an optimized Instagram profile can improve your search ranking, driving more traffic and bolstering your case for verification.
Grow your following
While Instagram claims that follower count isn’t a determining factor for verification, we believe it plays an indirect role. The verification committee might not directly assess your follower count, but a large and engaged following signifies brand notoriety. A growing follower base translates to more people discussing your brand, which aligns with the type of accounts Instagram typically verifies. Jumpstart your follower growth with these 10 quick tips to expand your Instagram presence.
Apply when your brand is hot
When submitting your verification application, capitalize on recent positive media coverage or significant announcements that highlight your brand’s newsworthiness. This PR momentum can work in your favor during the verification process.
Remember that paid promotions don’t count towards your application, so concentrate on securing organic media mentions.
Do not try to buy a verification
Similar to black hat SEO tactics, shortcuts to Instagram verification can harm your account in the long run. Avoid engaging with scammers offering to sell you a blue checkmark, no matter how tempting it seems. Trying to bypass Instagram’s official verification process is not only ineffective but can also lead to penalties for your account. While a blue checkmark is desirable, a healthy Instagram account is paramount. Instead of resorting to shortcuts, focus on organically increasing your account’s notoriety.
Remove links to other social media platforms
Understandably, Instagram discourages including links to other social media platforms in your bio. In fact, they explicitly state that accounts with cross-platform links won’t be verified. So, if the blue checkmark is your goal, remove external social media links from your bio. However, you can link to your Facebook account, given its affiliation with Meta. Linking to your website is also acceptable and won’t be scrutinized by Instagram verifiers.
Re-apply
If your initial application is unsuccessful, don’t be discouraged. You can reapply for verification.
Keep in mind that you need to wait at least 30 days before reapplying. Submitting a second (or third) application before receiving a response to your initial request will result in the cancellation of your current application.
Reapplying without significant changes to your account status is generally futile. Instead, concentrate on boosting engagement, garnering more brand mentions, and generating newsworthy events before reapplying.
Instagram verification FAQs
Let’s address some frequently asked questions to equip you with the knowledge needed for a successful Instagram verification bid.
How many followers do you need to get verified on Instagram?
This is a bit of a trick question. While follower count isn’t a direct factor in Instagram’s verification decision, a larger follower base typically correlates with increased brand mentions, which contribute to the notoriety factor that Instagram considers.
Can anyone get verified on Instagram?
Yes, achieving Instagram verification isn’t restricted to celebrities or major brands. However, you need to demonstrate that your brand holds public interest and that your account genuinely represents you.
How much does it cost for an Instagram verification badge?
The answer is nuanced. For personal accounts, Meta Verified is available for $11.99 per month (web) or $14.99 per month (iOS or Android). This subscription service grants you a blue badge on both Facebook and Instagram without requiring the stringent proof of notoriety demanded for the traditional blue badge. For brands, there’s no fee to apply for Instagram verification. However, the review process is more rigorous.
Build your brand with Instagram verification
A blue checkmark on your Instagram profile assures visitors that your account is managed by the legitimate brand. This credibility is crucial in today’s digital landscape, where mimicking popular accounts is effortless. Follow these tips to increase your chances of getting verified on Instagram:
- Craft a compelling bio and profile
- Grow your following organically
- Apply when your brand is featured in the news
- Don’t attempt to purchase a verification badge
- Remove links leading to other social media platforms
- Reapply if your initial application isn’t successful Instagram, along with social media in general, is a potent tool for businesses. While awaiting a response from Instagram’s verification team, explore this comprehensive guide to social media marketing to gain insights into expanding your follower base, cultivating brand advocates, and generating leads and sales across various platforms.