Instagram’s blue check is a badge of honor for users because it shows that the account is legitimate, authentic and worth following. You instantly notice one of these checks when you read through comments or see posts because it stands out.
If you’re trying to build a following, a blue check:
- Authenticates that it’s you
- Leads to most accounts seeing more engagement
We read a story on Buffer where the author actually lost some followers after getting verified, but she did note a 30% improvement in engagement and a 79% improvement in profile activity.
And, if you pay for verification using one of the methods we’ll discuss below, you will receive better account security to stop impersonation, which is good for creators or brands that people may impersonate.
Who Will Instagram Verify on Its Own?
Many people – myself included for a while – thought that verified accounts were meant only for celebrities, sports stars and public figures. However, when you read through the requirements, you’ll see this isn’t true.
You can be verified if you meet the following requirements:
- You must be authentic, meaning you must be a real person or business.
- Accounts must be unique, which means only one person or business can be verified. For example, The Rock can only have one verified account for himself.
- Profiles must be public and complete. You need to have a photo, bio and be active when you apply.
- Accounts must be notable, which means that you’re a well-known and searched entity, business or person.
But most of these requirements are vague. You’ll also be at the mercy of Instagram’s team that takes their time verifying accounts, if they ever choose to. We’ve seen some well-known writers in specific industries not be verified because they weren’t popular enough.
If you think that you meet all of the requirements above and want to try the free method of verification before paying, follow option 1 below.👇
Option #1: How to Request Instagram to Verify Your Account?
Anyone can request verification on three main platforms:
- Android
- iPhone
- Instagram Lite App
You cannot request verification on the desktop or any PC at the time of writing this using this method.
In all cases, you’ll need to follow these steps:👇
Step #1: Log into the Instagram account that you want to verify.
Step #2: Tap on your profile picture.
Step #3: Tap on the hamburger icon (the three-line menu at the top of the screen).
Step #4: Go to Account types and tools, which is underneath the “For professionals” option
Step #5: Tap on Request verification
You’ll need to provide a valid form of identification along with your request. If you’re a business owner, you’ll need to provide official business documentation. People who want to verify themselves will need to upload a driver’s license or other form of official identification along with their request.
On the application, you’ll be asked a lot of information, which I recommend filling out in as great of detail as you can.
For example, you’ll need to supply your full name, select an industry and target audience, and provide supporting links to your notability. You can link to other verified social media accounts, official websites, news articles and any other sources that can back your request for verification.
Instagram will often take 30 days to verify an account, but you’ll be notified whether the request is approved or not.
If you want to follow a guaranteed method of getting verified on Instagram, Meta does offer an official option that’s paid, which is the easiest way to get verified. Let’s see how Meta Verified works.
Option #2: How to Pay for Verification Using Meta’s Official Verification 💵
If you want to fast-track your verification, you can buy your blue check through Meta Verified. But there’s a catch – this isn’t a one-time fee.
Meta Verified subscriptions can range anywhere from $15 per month all the way up to $44.99 per month.
Creators can purchase a Meta Verified subscription if they:
- Are 18+ years of age (or the age of majority in their respective country)
- Have an eligible Instagram account
- Reside in a country where Meta Verified is available
- Have a government-issued ID
- Have a creator account with a profile picture and username that meets their naming standards
- Have 2-factor authentication enabled
- Meet minimum posting history requirements
For many creators, meeting these requirements is much easier than trying to get verified the traditional way. But it’s still not as simple as grabbing your credit card and making a purchase, which means the checkmark still holds meaning even if it’s through Meta Verified.
To apply for a subscription:
Step #1: Open the Instagram app
Step #2: Tap your profile picture
Step #3: Tap the menu icon at the top right of the interface and choose Meta Verified
Step #4: Select your profile and pay
One thing we have to note here is that signing up for a Meta Verified subscription will get you more than just a blue checkmark. Meta also promises to provide:
- Added protection for your profile through proactive impersonation monitoring
- Access to specialized support to resolve issues
- Access to exclusive stickers you can use on Reels and Stories
- Enhanced profile features, such as being able to add links with images to your creator profile
If you’re struggling to get verified through the old system, purchasing a Meta Verified subscription may be a good option for you. It will give you credibility and may even help expand your reach. But make sure you have the budget for this expense.
Why Do Influencers Want to Be Verified on Instagram?
Influencers want to be verified on Instagram because it gives them credibility. If you’re verified, you must be “somebody” in your niche or industry, right?
There’s an undeniable link between being verified and being an authority.
And even though there’s a paid-for option for verification, influencers still seek it out because it sets them apart from others.
In fact, data shows that among Instagram influencers with 1+ million followers, 73.4% are verified.
Along with getting more clout, influencers chase the blue check because it often gives them:
- Access to new and exclusive features
- A greater opportunity for collaboration offers (verified accounts are more authoritative)
- A higher chance of increasing sales and followers
Simply put, being verified puts you ahead of the pack. Brands and other users on Instagram will take you more seriously simply because of that tiny little blue check next to your username.
Does Everyone With a Blue Check Pay for Verification?
No, not everyone with a blue check on Instagram paid for their verification. In fact, paid verification is still a new thing. Initially, only Instagrammers who were true influencers could get a verified check next to their name.
Should I Try to Buy Instagram Verification from a Third Party?
Some third parties offer Instagram verification services, but we recommend proceeding with caution here. Unless you’re purchasing your verification through a Meta Verified subscription, there’s no real way to guarantee that your account will be verified. To protect your personal data and your hard-earned cash, we recommend doing it the old-fashioned way (applying) or buying it through the official channel.
Plus, it’s against Instagram’s terms of service to purchase badges like the blue checkmark. Buying one through a third-party (we’re not even sure how that would work) could very well get your account banned.
Does a Blue Check Expand My Reach on Instagram?
Yes, having a blue check can absolutely expand your reach on Instagram. Your account may not get special treatment from the algorithm, but that blue check will help your account stand out from the crowd. It gives you more credibility, which means that users are more likely to check out your content.
