Instagram Verified Badges: What They Are, Why You Need One, and How to Get It

As you browse Instagram, you will notice that some profiles have a blue checkmark next to their profile names. This checkmark indicates that the Instagram account is verified.

But what is a verified badge on Instagram, and why should you want one?

Understanding Instagram Verification

As with other social media platforms offering verification, the Instagram verification badge indicates that a profile was confirmed to be who it says it is. The badges are there to make official and legitimate accounts stand out, especially for brands, celebrities, and any other high-profile account.

Keep in mind that having a verified account will not make the Instagram algorithm treat you better. That said, it’s highly possible that potential followers will give more weight or credibility to your account if it is verified.

Why Do You Want Instagram Verification?

If being verified doesn’t cause the algorithm to treat you better, why do you want it? It comes down to prestige, exclusivity, and credibility. Not just any account can become verified, so verified accounts stand out from the crowd.

As mentioned, you may be seen as more credible if your profile features an Instagram verification badge. People may see your account as more official or professional. This may help you attract an audience.

That being said, you will still have to create amazing content to get and maintain a large following.

As a bonus, you get a handful of special benefits as a verified account. For example, you don’t need to meet the minimum of 10,000 followers to post links in your Stories. You may also sometimes appear higher in search results.

Are You Eligible for a Verification Badge?

You may not be eligible for a verification badge, and Instagram isn’t incredibly clear on who can get one. The platform doesn’t provide explicit guidelines about eligibility requirements for gaining a verification badge.

Overall, if your brand or personal profile has a higher chance of being impersonated, you are more likely to be eligible for verification. Certain brands, celebrities, and public figures are eligible, but it is up to Instagram to decide.

The minimum requirements to receive Instagram verification include the following:

• Following the Community Guidelines
• Following the Terms of Service
• Representing a real person, brand, or registered business
• Being unique (one account per business or person can receive verification)
• Your account is public
• Your profile is completely filled out and you have at least one post

On top of all that, you have to be notable, which is where the platform’s subjective evaluation comes into play. For Instagram to consider you notable, your name must be well-known and frequently searched for.

How to Verify Your Account

If you think you meet the criteria to verify your Instagram account, then you can go ahead and get verified in a few steps. The process is incredibly straightforward and involves a simple form.

• 1. From your Instagram profile, select the hamburger menu in the upper right corner.
• 2. Choose “Settings.”
• 3. Choose “Account.”
• 4. Select “Request Verification.”
• 5. Fill out the application form.
• 6. Hit “Send.”

The Verification Application

The application form is the most important part of the verification process. You will need to enter the following information:

• Your legal name
• Your working name (if it applies)
• Your industry or category (such as business, sports, news/media, or blogger/influencer)
• A photo ID

If you want to verify an individual account, you can use a passport or driver’s license. If you want to verify a business, you can use an official business document, tax filing, or utility bill.

How Long It Takes

Your verification request will be approved or denied within the next 30 days, but it may just take a few days. You don’t get an explanation if you are denied; you just receive a message saying you didn’t meet the criteria and can reapply in 30 days.

Additional Tips to Help You Get Verified on Instagram

Because verification can be a highly subjective process, it’s common to want to do everything you can to improve your chances of verification. Keep the following in mind to do just that.

If You Have Imposter Accounts, You May Be Verified More Easily

If you notice an imposter account on Instagram, then this is good news for your ability to be verified. So, occasionally be on the lookout for fake accounts imitating you. Of course, you should look for these accounts anyway, as they can hurt your brand image by pretending to be you.

Apply When You’re Trending

Remember that one of the criteria for being verified is having an account that’s frequently searched for. Take advantage of this and apply for Instagram verification when you are trending on the platform.

You Cannot Buy Verification

Keep in mind that you cannot buy Instagram verification, so be wary of third-party companies offering a guaranteed way to be verified on the platform. Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee Instagram account verification.

Get More Followers

Although it is not a guarantee, accounts with more followers seem to be more likely to be verified. So, if you can attract more real followers, this can help your chances of being verified.

Of course, there are other reasons to get more followers, such as brand recognition, so there’s no harm in working toward this goal.

Follow Instagram’s Guidance for Social Media Links

Instagram is picky about the links you put in your bio. You can link to landing pages and websites but not to other social media pages, not even Facebook.

That said, if you are verified on Facebook, you should adjust your Facebook profile to link to your Instagram account. This can help your chances of verification.

Don’t Be Afraid to Try Again

Remember that if your verification request is denied, you can reapply in 30 days. Use that time to grow your followers and get your brand name trending.

Conclusion

With the above tips, you should be on your way to Instagram verification. With the blue checkmark next to your profile, you can stand out from the crowd.