How to get verified on Instagram

Getting a blue tick on Instagram is now easier than ever, but it comes at a cost

If you are not a subscriber of The Fanbase Builder, join the dozens of artists, creators and music industry executives who receive it for free.

Let’s dive into today’s topic:

---

How to get verified on Instagram

Getting a blue tick on Instagram is now easier than ever, but it comes at a cost.

Why it matters

• A verified badge can help establish authenticity in an artist’s digital presence.

• Meta thrives on advertising revenue, but Apple's privacy changes in 2021 resulted in more than $10 billion in lost ads revenue for Meta. As a result, Meta is exploring new revenue opportunities. Like Twitter and Snapchat, they expect subscription services to become a major revenue driver.

How it works

There are three ways to get verified on Instagram:

1. Apply for the blue tick through a form in Instagram’s app on iOS or Android. Go to Profile > Menu > Settings and privacy > For professionals > Account type and tools > Request verification and follow the on-screen instructions. The are some eligibility requirements. Artists should receive a notification within 30 days after applying letting them know whether they’re verified or not.

2. In my experience, most verified artists have access to an account manager or media contact at Meta, such as artists signed at major labels.

3. Purchase Meta Verified. This subscription service allows users to verify their identity for $14,99 per month. There are some eligibility requirements and Meta Verified is not available in all regions. For artists dealing with account issues, subscribing to Meta Verified could be valuable since it comes with direct account support.

Created with SDXL v1.0 using the prompt ‘blue cat showing his passport’

Yes, but..

Unless artists are dealing with fake accounts impersonating them, they shouldn't be too concerned about getting verified on Instagram. However, some people really want a blue tick next to their name. Meta should have a decent verification process to prove who you are, but they don't. So, just like Twitter and other platforms, Meta has answered the demand for blue ticks with a paid product. I think this is a bad solution to a very serious problem. Big tech companies should do more to let their users prove who they are online.

Take action now

Artists can try to get verified on Instagram by filling in the form mentioned above. If their verification is declined, they can reach out to their network for help getting in touch with a representative at Meta. Unless artists are dealing with account issues or imposter profiles, I would not recommend they subscribe to Meta Verified.

Further reading

• Verified badges (Instagram Help)

• Introducing Meta Verified (Meta)

• Meta begins selling blue badge on Instagram and Facebook as Zuckerberg borrows Musk playbook (TechCrunch)