As a digital media and marketing professional, we have observed the desire among creators and brands to acquire the coveted verification checkmark on TikTok.
This enthusiasm is understandable, as TikTok verification is akin to receiving a golden ticket to Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory in the social media world.
It’s important to note that a blue checkmark on TikTok doesn’t automatically elevate you to celebrity status or guarantee VIP treatment. However, I can assure you that it significantly enhances your brand’s image and serves as a valuable stepping stone in expanding your platform’s reach and influence.
For those wondering how to achieve verification on TikTok, you might be pleasantly surprised to learn that the process is more straightforward than many assume.
Allow me to share the steps to get verified on TikTok, along with some insights I’ve gathered from my extensive time scrolling through the app and my experience as a marketing professional.
Also Read: How to Earn on TikTok in Kenya
TikTok Verification Requirements
To be considered for a verified badge, you need to submit a TikTok verification application. The platform evaluates several factors before granting verification, including:
1. Activity: Your account must be active, having logged in within the past 6 months.
2. Authenticity: Your account should represent a real person, business, or entity.
3. Notability: You must have coverage in multiple news sources (excluding press releases and paid media).
4. Completeness: Your account must be public with a fully completed profile.
5. Uniqueness: TikTok typically verifies only one account per entity, with some exceptions.
Specific Account Requirements
As a business, here are some of the requirements we had to adhere to:
– For businesses: Your email domain in the application should match your business (e.g., @tiktok.com). If this isn’t possible, additional documentation may be required.
– Username similarity: Your username should closely resemble your business name.
– Security: Two-step verification with a verified email is mandatory.
How to Verify Your TikTok Account
To request TikTok verification:
How to Verify TikTok Account Infographic
1. Open the TikTok app and tap on your Profile.
2. Access the Menu (☰) and select “Settings and privacy.”
3. Navigate to “Account” and then “Verification.”
4. Tap “Start” and follow the prompts to submit your request.
Note that the type of verification you can apply for depends on your account type:
– Business Accounts: Limited to business verification
– Personal Accounts: Can apply for personal or institutional verifications
– Government, Politician, or Political Party Accounts (GPPPA): Restricted to institutional verification
How to Verify TikTok Online
It’s worth mentioning that this feature isn’t available in all regions. If you can’t access the in-app verification request, TikTok offers an online form for submissions.
1. Open https://www.tiktok.com/legal/report/verification
2. Fill out your details
3. Attach your ID if it’s a personal account. Attach KRA certificate, business/company registration certificate for businesses
Here’s the response you’ll likely get from TikTok:
1. TikTok will email you back, requesting you to send them further details. These include your fill legal name, link to official website (if you have one), links to your other verified accounts.
This was my response:
2. TikTok will email you back, confirming that your application has reached the verification team, and from here you will be asked to provide more information as you can see from the screenshot below.
3. TikTok will then send you an application form in PDF format, which you’re supposed to fill out and sign, and then email it back to the support
4. TikTok will take between 48 – 72 hours to verify your account
5. You’ll see the verified badge on your page as you can see below:
Note: The entire process should be handled in the same email thread.
How Many Followers or Views Do You Need to Get Verified on TikTok?
Contrary to popular belief, TikTok doesn’t have a specific follower or view threshold that automatically qualifies an account for verification.
This might come as a surprise to many, as some creators with massive followings – we’re talking hundreds of thousands or even millions of followers – still don’t sport the coveted blue tick. TikTok’s verification process is more nuanced, focusing on authenticity and notability rather than sheer numbers.
We were approved with less than 1,000 followers.
You too can follow us here: https://www.tiktok.com/@tujuemedia
How Much Does it Cost to Get Verified?
TikTok does not charge users for verification. If you encounter anyone claiming to sell TikTok verifications, be aware that they are not affiliated with TikTok in any capacity.
Verification is a process handled solely by TikTok, and it’s completely free of charge.
How to Tell if Your Account is Verified on TikTok
The hallmark of a verified TikTok account is the blue check mark symbol that appears next to the username. This badge is consistently placed and is the only official indicator of verification.
Be wary of accounts that display verification symbols elsewhere on their profile, such as in their bio. These are not genuine verifications. TikTok is the sole authority for applying verified badges, and they always appear in the same designated location.
Why Might TikTok Remove Your Verification?
It’s important to note that TikTok reserves the right to revoke verification at any time, without prior notice. Some scenarios that might lead to the removal of a verified badge include:
1. Ownership Transfer: If an account changes hands, it may lose its verification as it no longer authentically represents the originally verified entity.
2. Username Changes: Altering the username can result in the loss of verification. In such cases, the account owner would need to reapply for verification under the new username.
3. Account Type Shifts: Switching between business, personal, or institutional account types can affect verification status.
4. Community Guidelines Violations: Repeated or severe breaches of TikTok’s Community Guidelines and Terms of Service can lead to the removal of verification.
Tips to Get Verified on TikTok
While applying for TikTok verification is straightforward, securing approval requires a more strategic approach.
Here are some expert tips to boost your chances of obtaining that coveted blue check from TikTok’s verification team:
1. Establish Your Niche and Maintain Consistent Content Production
Building a strong brand presence on social media hinges on regularly posting popular and authentic content. Once you’ve carved out your niche, it becomes easier to attract, retain, and grow your following. Focus on developing engaging, catchy content and maintain a consistent posting schedule.
Regularly analyze your own video performance. Identify which types of content resonate with your audience and which posting times yield the best results. This data-driven approach can help you refine your content strategy and maximize your impact on the platform.
2. Secure Verification on Other Social Media Platforms
Achieving verification on other social networks like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter can significantly enhance your chances of TikTok verification. Each platform has its own verification criteria.
3. Aim for Viral Content
While it may seem obvious, most TikTok accounts experience at least one major viral moment before verification. Landing on the platform’s “For You” page can dramatically boost your followers and views, putting you on TikTok’s radar.
High activity and engagement are key metrics TikTok considers for verification, and going viral effectively addresses both. While there’s no guaranteed formula for virality on TikTok, you can improve your chances by:
– Starting videos with a catchy hook to grab attention in the first few seconds.
– Telling compelling stories, especially if you’re not focusing on dance content.
– Keeping videos concise, ideally 8-10 seconds, to maximize average watch time.
– Actively engaging with comments to foster community and increase video visibility.
4. Adhere to Platform Guidelines
Like all social media platforms, TikTok only verifies accounts that strictly follow its community guidelines and terms of service. Violating these rules can result in your account being flagged by moderators, significantly diminishing your chances of verification.
Make it Happen!
Securing verification on TikTok is a journey that requires dedication, creativity, and strategic effort. While the blue checkmark may seem like a distant goal, it’s important to remember that verification is ultimately a recognition of your authenticity, influence, and the value you bring to the TikTok community.
As you work towards verification, focus on creating genuine, engaging content that resonates with your audience. Build your presence not just on TikTok, but across various platforms and media channels. Stay true to your niche, engage actively with your followers, and always adhere to TikTok’s guidelines.
