Getting verified on YouTube is an important step for creators who want to build their brand and establish credibility. A verified badge lets your audience know that your channel is authentic and officially recognized by YouTube. In this guide, we’ll show you how to get the verification badge and what requirements you need to meet to qualify.
1. Meet YouTube’s Eligibility Requirements
Before you can apply for verification, you must meet certain criteria set by YouTube. While the platform doesn’t allow everyone to be verified, the requirements are straightforward. Here’s what you need to know:
- At least 100,000 subscribers: Your channel needs to have a minimum of 100,000 subscribers to be eligible for verification.
- Complete and active channel: Your channel must be fully complete, including a profile picture, channel banner, and description. It should also be active with consistent uploads.
- Follow YouTube’s community guidelines: You must comply with YouTube’s community guidelines and terms of service. Violations can prevent you from being verified.
Why It’s Important: Meeting these requirements ensures that YouTube can confirm the authenticity of your channel and its content.
2. Set Up Your YouTube Channel Properly
To increase your chances of getting verified, you must have a properly set up YouTube channel. Here’s what you need to do to optimize your channel:
- Profile Picture: Upload a clear and recognizable profile picture that represents your brand or identity.
- Channel Banner: Your banner should be professional and aligned with the style of your content.
- Channel Description: Write a detailed channel description that explains what your content is about and what viewers can expect.
- Link Your Social Media Accounts: Connect your YouTube channel to other verified social media accounts to help YouTube verify your identity.
Why It’s Important: A complete and professional channel profile shows YouTube that you are serious about your content and your brand, which increases your chances of being verified.
3. Apply for YouTube Verification
Once you’ve met the eligibility criteria, you can apply for verification. Follow these simple steps to apply:
- Go to YouTube Studio: Sign in to your YouTube account and click on your profile icon in the top right corner. Then, select YouTube Studio.
- Navigate to Settings: In the left-hand menu, click on Settings, then click on Channel.
- Go to the Verification Section: Select the Status and Features tab, and then click on Apply for Verification.
- Fill Out the Application: You’ll be asked to provide additional information, such as a contact email and a description of your channel. Be clear about why you want to be verified.
Why It’s Important: Applying for verification through the official process ensures that your request goes directly to YouTube for review.
4. Wait for YouTube’s Response
Once you’ve submitted your verification application, you’ll need to wait for YouTube to review your channel. The review process can take several weeks, so be patient. YouTube will notify you through email whether your application has been accepted or rejected.
Why It’s Important: YouTube reviews your application to ensure that your channel meets all of its criteria before granting verification.
5. Keep Your Channel Active and Compliant
After applying for verification, it’s important to keep your channel active and in good standing. YouTube may reject your verification request if your channel violates any of its community guidelines. To avoid this, ensure that:
- You continue posting regular content.
- You avoid copyright violations.
- You engage with your audience by responding to comments and staying active on your platform.
Why It’s Important: Maintaining a clean, active, and compliant channel improves your chances of getting verified and keeps your channel in good standing after verification.
6. What To Do If Your Application is Rejected
If YouTube rejects your verification application, don’t be discouraged. You can always reapply once you meet the criteria or improve your channel’s standing. Here are some tips to improve your chances for future applications:
- Increase Subscribers: If your subscriber count is under 100,000, work on growing your audience.
- Make Your Channel Stand Out: Continue uploading high-quality, original content that aligns with YouTube’s community guidelines.
- Fix Violations: If there are any issues with your channel (e.g., copyright claims, community guideline violations), address them promptly.
Why It’s Important: Reapplying after addressing any issues ensures that you have a better chance of getting approved next time.
7. Benefits of Being Verified on YouTube
Once you’ve been verified, you’ll notice several benefits:
- Credibility: The verification badge increases your credibility and shows viewers that you are a legitimate creator.
- Improved Visibility: Verified channels are more likely to appear in search results and suggested videos.
- Better Communication with YouTube: You’ll have direct communication with YouTube’s support team if needed.
- Access to Features: Some exclusive features, like the ability to live stream from mobile, are only available to verified channels.
Why It’s Important: Having a verification badge can boost your channel’s trustworthiness and help attract more subscribers and views.
Conclusion
Getting verified on YouTube is a valuable milestone for creators. Not only does it give your channel greater credibility, but it also helps increase your visibility and access to additional features. By meeting YouTube’s eligibility criteria, setting up your channel properly, and applying through YouTube Studio, you can work your way to a verified badge. Stay active, follow the platform’s guidelines, and your chances of getting verified will improve. Best of luck!
