How to Get an Instagram Checkmark: Your Definitive Guide

Want to snag that coveted blue checkmark on Instagram? It’s more than just a vanity symbol; it’s a powerful indicator of authenticity and notability. Here’s the straightforward answer: You need to meet Instagram’s eligibility requirements and apply through the app, proving you’re a legitimate, notable, and unique entity. Let’s unpack exactly how to navigate this process.

Understanding the Allure of Verification

The blue checkmark signifies that Instagram has confirmed the account represents the authentic presence of the public figure, celebrity, global brand, or entity it claims to be. It’s about combating impersonation and building trust with your audience. A verified badge shouts, “This is the real deal!”

The Path to Instagram Verification: Meeting the Requirements

Instagram’s official verification process is governed by a stringent set of criteria, which falls under Instagram’s terms of use and community guidelines. You need to be squeaky clean on both fronts. Let’s break down the key components:

Account Authenticity

This is paramount. You must be who you say you are. Representing a fake identity or impersonating someone else is a guaranteed rejection. Prepare to provide official documentation, like a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport) for individuals, or business documents (articles of incorporation, tax filings) for companies.

Account Completeness

Your account needs to be more than just a profile; it needs to be complete. This means:

• A public profile: Private accounts are ineligible.
• A bio: Clear, concise, and reflective of your identity or brand.
• A profile picture: Clear and easily recognizable.
• At least one post: A blank account is a red flag.
• A link to your official website or other relevant profiles: This helps Instagram verify your online presence.

Account Notability

This is arguably the trickiest aspect. Instagram wants to verify accounts that are well-known and highly searched for. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need millions of followers. It means you need to have significant coverage in news sources or have a substantial impact in your field.

Think about these points:

• News Coverage: Articles in reputable news outlets (think national newspapers, major magazines, industry publications) carry significant weight. Mentions in blog posts or smaller websites aren’t as impactful.
• Search Volume: Are people actively searching for you or your brand online? High search volume indicates notability.
• Relevance: Is your work or activity relevant and impactful within your industry?
• Exclusivity: The account must represent a unique person or business. Common names, generic product brands, and parody accounts are not eligible.

Account Uniqueness

Instagram only verifies one account per person or business, with exceptions for language-specific accounts. For example, Nike might have separate verified accounts for different regions or languages.

Why Your Verification Request Might Get Rejected

It’s crucial to understand the common pitfalls that lead to rejection. These include:

• False or Misleading Information: Submitting inaccurate information is a surefire way to get denied.
• Lack of Notability: Insufficient news coverage or low search volume.
• Violation of Instagram’s Guidelines: Any violation of the platform’s terms of service or community guidelines.
• Promoting Other Services: Using the account primarily to promote external websites or services (other than your own legitimate website).
• Incomplete Account: Missing bio, profile picture, or posts.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

1. Log into your account: Access the account you want to verify.
2. Go to Settings: Tap the three horizontal lines (menu) in the top right corner, then select “Settings.”
3. Account: Scroll down and tap “Account.”
4. Request Verification: Tap “Request Verification.”
5. Fill out the application:
   • Full Name: Your legal name (or the official name of your business).
   • Known As: The name you’re commonly known by (e.g., a stage name).
   • Category: Select the category that best describes your account (e.g., News/Media, Sports, Music, Business).
   • Attach ID: Upload a clear image of your government-issued ID or business documents.
6. Add Supporting Information: Here you will include links to up to 5 news articles, or media coverage that highlights your notability.
7. Submit: Tap “Send.”

What to Do After Applying

Be patient. Instagram’s review process can take several weeks. You’ll receive a notification informing you of their decision. If rejected, you can reapply after 30 days. In the meantime, focus on building your online presence and generating more news coverage. Getting featured in reputable publications substantially increases your chances next time around.

FAQs: All Your Verification Questions Answered

Here are some common questions to help you on your quest for the blue badge.

1. How many followers do I need to get verified on Instagram?

There’s no specific follower count required for verification. Instagram focuses more on notability and authenticity. An account with 1,000 followers and significant news coverage might get verified, while an account with 100,000 followers but little public recognition might not.

2. Can I buy an Instagram verification badge?

Absolutely not! Buying verification is a scam. Any service claiming to sell verification badges is fraudulent and violates Instagram’s terms of service. You will likely lose your money and risk getting your account banned.

3. What kind of news articles count towards proving notability?

Reputable news sources, such as national newspapers, major magazines, and well-respected industry publications, are the most effective. Blog posts, personal websites, and social media mentions are less impactful. Look for articles that feature you or your work prominently.

4. How can I increase my chances of getting verified?

Focus on building your brand or personal brand, getting media coverage, and ensuring your account is complete and authentic. Actively engage with your audience and maintain a professional online presence.

5. Does being verified on other social media platforms help?

While it doesn’t guarantee Instagram verification, being verified on platforms like Twitter or Facebook can strengthen your application by demonstrating your notability across multiple channels. Include links to these verified accounts in your application.

6. What if I changed my name; can I still get verified?

Yes, you can still get verified. However, you’ll need to provide documentation to support the name change, such as legal documents or official business paperwork reflecting the new name.

7. Can I reapply immediately if my verification request is denied?

No, you must wait 30 days before reapplying for verification. This gives you time to address any issues that led to the initial rejection, such as improving your news coverage or updating your account information.

8. Is Instagram verification permanent?

No. Instagram can remove your verification badge if you violate their terms of service, sell your username, transfer your badge to another account, or use your profile for promotional purposes in a way that violates their guidelines.

9. What is the difference between a verified badge and a paid Instagram badge?

They are completely different. The blue checkmark signifies that the account has been verified and the account is a legitimate, notable, and unique entity. The Instagram Badges is a way for followers to pay to support creators on the platform.

10. I got verified, and now someone is impersonating me. What should I do?

Report the impersonating account to Instagram immediately. Provide evidence that you are the verified account holder and that the other account is a fake. Instagram takes impersonation seriously and will typically take action to remove the offending account.

11. What happens if I change my username after getting verified?

Changing your username after getting verified can cause you to lose your verification badge. Contact Instagram support to inquire about the process of retaining your verification after a username change. You may need to re-verify your account.

12. Does using Instagram ads help with verification?

While running ads can increase your visibility, it does not directly impact your chances of getting verified. Verification is based on notability, authenticity, and uniqueness, not on advertising spend.