Getting that coveted blue checkmark on Instagram isn’t just for celebrities anymore. It’s for any digital creator, entrepreneur, or small business looking to build trust and grow their presence online. Whether you’re aiming for the original Instagram verification or exploring Meta Verified (the paid option), this guide breaks down everything you need to know, including a simple, step-by-step walkthrough to help you apply with confidence.

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Why Instagram verification mattersThat little blue checkmark may be small, but it carries big weight. Instagram verification signals that your account is authentic, credible, and worth paying attention to. For digital creators, small businesses, and personal brands, it’s more than a status symbol, it’s a tool to build trust with your audience.

Here’s why it matters:

• Instant credibility: It shows your followers (and potential followers) that you’re legit.
• Builds trust: The verified badge helps people feel more confident engaging with your content, clicking your links, or buying from you.
• Protects your identity: It makes it harder for impersonators to pretend to be you or your brand.
• Boosts discoverability: Verified accounts are more likely to appear higher in search results and recommended content.
• Unlocks opportunities: Some brands, press outlets, and partners prioritize working with verified accounts.

In short, it helps you stand out in a crowded Instagram feed and grow with more confidence.

What is Instagram verification?

An Instagram verified badge is a blue check mark next to your profile name, proving that the account is owned by a real person or business. There are two ways to get verified on Instagram:

• Request verification via Instagram app
• Subscribe to Meta Verafied

So what’s the difference? 

Requesting verification via the Instagram app is reserved for a “public figure, celebrity or brand” and meet the following criteria:

• Authentic: You need to be the real deal - a real person, a public figure, or a registered business. Instagram will ask for an official ID or business documentation to prove it’s really you.
• Unique: Each verified account has to represent a unique individual or brand. That means no duplicate accounts (unless they’re language-specific), and no fan or meme pages.
• Complete: Your profile needs to be public and fully filled out. At the very least, that means a profile photo, a bio, and consistent activity on your account (think posting, commenting, and engaging with your community).
• Notable: This one’s the hardest to meet. Instagram’s looking for accounts that are highly searched or mentioned in the news. Think multiple press features, not ads or paid placements. If you’re not quite there yet, you can still get a verified checkmark through Meta Verified, which is Instagram’s subscription-based alternative.

Getting Meta Verified is a much easier process, allowing anyone access to verification benefits without being famous or a public figure. In order to get Meta Verified, you must meet the following criteria: 

• Be 18 or older: Meta Verified is currently only available for adult accounts.
• Have a public or private profile that’s complete: That means a profile photo, your full name, and at least some active presence on your account (a few posts, stories, or interactions go a long way).
• Match your ID: You'll need to submit a government-issued photo ID that matches the name on your profile. No pseudonyms or stage names unless they’re legally recognized.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security and is required to keep your account safe.
• Follow Instagram’s rules: Make sure your account doesn’t violate any community guidelines or terms of use.

So, what are the benefits of Meta Verified?

Meta offers many tiers to their subscription plan in which you can get various benefits, with their base plan “Business Standard” priced at $14.99 per month (or $143.99 a year). Benefits vary by plan, but here are the main benefits you can expect no matter the plan:

• Verified badge: Instantly adds credibility and trust with the blue checkmark on your Instagram and/or Facebook profile.
• Stronger account security: Includes proactive impersonation monitoring and protection.
• Access to live support: Direct help from Meta’s team for common issues like account recovery or verification problems.
• Boosted visibility: Your content may get more reach in search, comments, and Explore, helping more people discover your brand.
• Exclusive features: Get early access to special stickers, tools, and customizations only available to Meta Verified users.
• Personal branding power: Adds legitimacy to your account without needing press coverage or huge follower counts.

How to get Instagram verified

If you meet Instagram’s eligibility requirements, you can apply for verification directly in the app. Here’s how to do it:

1. Log into your brand’s Instagram account
2. Navigate account settings to Tools menu
3. Fill out your verification application
4. Submit your application

It’s worth noting that this process is quite tricky for newer brands (see requirements above) and the process can be lengthy (sometimes 30+ days!).
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How to subscribe to Meta Verified

To sign up for Meta Verified, Meta’s paid subscription that gives you a verified badge plus added perks, here’s what you need to do:

1. Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements
2. Go to Meta Verified on your mobile app
3. Choose a profile to verify
4. Pay your first Meta Verified subscription fee
5. Confirm your profile information
6. Verify your account

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Tips to build a legit Instagram account

• Nail your niche: Choosing a niche doesn’t put you in a box - it makes your brand easier to find, follow, and fall in love with. Whether you’re a fashion creator, wellness coach, or small business, having a clear niche helps Instagram (and your audience) understand what you bring to the table. 
• Post consistently: Consistency builds trust. Aim for a content rhythm that works for you, whether that’s 3 times a week or daily. Use tools like Planoly’s Social Planner to visually plan and schedule your posts ahead of time. We also recommend batching out your content ahead of time.
• Polish your profile: Your profile should feel cohesive and complete with a clear profile photo (ideally your face or logo), short, keyword-rich bio, contact buttons or links & highlights that explain who you are and what you offer.
• Lean into reels & storytelling: Instagram is pushing short-form video. Use Reels to tell your story, share tips, or show products in action. Engaging Reels also help boost visibility in Explore and search. Another way to keep followers engaged is by using carousels as it gives you more chances to engage with your users, according to Head of Instagram Adam Mosseri.
• Engage like a real human: Reply to DMs, respond to comments, and interact with your community. Instagram favors active, engaged accounts … and so do real followers! Building a genuine community is the real way to grow your following.

TL;DR How To Get Instagram Verified in 2025

• You can apply for Instagram’s free verification if you’re authentic, complete, and notable (think: press coverage and public interest).
• Or, go the Meta Verified route, a paid subscription that gives you a verified badge, account protection, access to real support, and potential visibility boosts.

No matter which path you take, your content and presence need to be legit: post consistently, show up as yourself, and build a brand worth following.