Guidelines for processing Amazon seller verification

If you want to sell on Amazon, you need to pass an Amazon seller identity verification. This is a process that helps Amazon ensure the safety and security of its customers and sellers. In this post, we will explain why Amazon needs to verify seller identity, how to do it, what happens if you don’t, and how to handle any issues that may arise.

Why Does Amazon Need seller identity verification?

Amazon is a global marketplace that connects millions of buyers and sellers. To maintain trust and confidence among its users, Amazon has to prevent fraud, counterfeiting, and illegal activities on its platform. One of the ways Amazon does this is by verifying the identity of its sellers.

Amazon seller identity verification is a process that requires sellers to provide personal or business information, such as name, address, phone number, email, bank account, tax information, and identity documents. Amazon uses this information to confirm that the seller is who they claim to be, and that they are authorized to sell on Amazon.

Amazon ID verification also helps Amazon comply with local and international laws and regulations, such as anti-money laundering (AML), know your customer (KYC), and tax reporting. By verifying seller identity, Amazon can ensure that it collects and remits the appropriate taxes from its sellers, and that it cooperates with law enforcement agencies when necessary.

Amazon US INFORM Consumers Act

In 2023, a new law called the Amazon US INFORM Consumers Act was passed in the United States and took effect on June 27, 2023. This law requires online marketplaces like Amazon to disclose certain information about their third-party sellers to consumers. The information includes:

• Amazon ID verification: Amazon asking for ID proof
• Phone Number Verification
• Bank verification
• Amazon Postcard Verification for Seller Address
• Seller’s Tax Verification

The purpose of this law is to protect consumers from fraudulent or deceptive sellers, and to hold sellers accountable for their products and services. The law also aims to create a level playing field for legitimate sellers who follow the rules.

The INFORM Consumers Act applies to third-party sellers on Amazon who have met specific criteria regarding their sales and revenue over a defined period. If your brand falls within these parameters, Amazon will contact you via email with clear instructions. For updates, you can regularly check your Account Health, Account Information, or Seller Central.

Upon successful verification of required information by Amazon, there’s no need for resubmission unless any details have changed. A confirmation email from Amazon signifies successful verification. However, it might take up to 24 hours for updates to reflect on your Account Health page. If there’s a delay beyond this, reaching out to Seller Support is advised.

Should you receive a verification pass email, note that it pertains to specific information categories like identity or bank details. Subsequent requests for additional verification may follow even after receiving a verification pass email.

For those who haven’t completed verification but received notifications, providing the requested information becomes necessary to comply with INFORM. Amazon requires various business details for verification, including identity, bank account, phone number, business address, and tax identification number. Access your Account Health or Account Information pages to check the verified information and pending requirements. To avoid any disruption in your Amazon selling privileges, Amazon recommends promptly submitting the necessary information and documents before the law’s enforcement.

Failure to comply with Amazon’s requests for verification may result in temporary deactivation of your selling account as mandated by the new law. Additionally, Amazon might withhold disbursements in accordance with Section 3 of your Business Solutions Agreement if the necessary information isn’t provided within the specified timeline.

Amazon’s Enhanced Verification Procedures

Over time, Amazon’s verification methods have undergone advancements, periodically experimenting with new protocols like video verification or sending a physical card to the seller’s business address containing a code for input in Seller Central to confirm the address accuracy. While most sellers will still likely encounter the standard verification process in Seller Central, Amazon appears to be expanding its new video verification system to encompass a larger seller base.

Termed as the “identity verification video call” by Amazon, video verification involves presenting your identity documents during a video call with an Amazon agent. Amazon asserts that their system utilizes technologies like forgery detection, facial recognition, and liveness detection to swiftly authenticate government-issued identity documents and verify their alignment with the applicant.

If the video verification option applies to you, here’s what the process entails:

• During registration and after uploading documents in Seller Central, you’ll schedule a call from a list of date and time slots provided by Amazon (an immediate call option might be available, placing you in a queue for the next available agent).
• Prepare for the call akin to a business meeting: be in a well-lit, quiet space, ensure a strong internet connection, and dress professionally.
• Amazon requires sight of the original physical documents uploaded to Seller Central, including your ID document, which you can verify by revisiting the document upload page from registration.
• The call can be joined via any device with a front-facing camera and microphone, but ensure compliance with technical requirements (e.g., using Safari for iOS and Chrome for other devices).
• The verification call involves displaying your documents to the camera, front and back. Typically lasting 15-20 minutes, most of this time involves Amazon verifying the presented documents. You’ll usually receive an email notification within 2-3 days regarding the completion status.

Additionally, Amazon might necessitate a video verification call in instances of account deactivation or potential deactivation due to account health issues like repeated IP violations or authenticity complaints. This might also be mandated when Amazon considers releasing funds post-account deactivation or during an account-level velocity review.

In such cases, Amazon communicates the need to “verify information related to your identity and the authenticity of your supply chain,” requiring the same process as a regular verification call alongside showcasing physical invoices.

What prompts the verification process?

As highlighted, Amazon might conduct routine re-verifications in specific marketplaces to comply with legal obligations in certain regions. However, several situations and occurrences often trigger this process:

• Reactivation of an inactive account intending to resume selling.
• Modifications to critical account details (e.g., legal entity, banking or credit card methods). Note: Properly executed changes can sometimes bypass verification, but not always.
• Account scrutiny due to unusual shifts in activity, like sudden spikes in sales velocity.
• Approaching certain disbursement thresholds, such as nearing 15,000 Euro or GBP in Europe/UK, can trigger verification.
• Recent instances reveal verifications seemingly sparked by account health concerns, especially after receiving multiple or recurring IP complaints.

While evading many of these triggers for Amazon verification or re-verification may prove challenging, anticipating a potential verification request beforehand can significantly streamline the entire process.

What steps can I take to get ready for the Amazon verification ahead of time?

Preparing for Amazon’s verification process in advance and understanding its requirements can prevent many common issues when setting up a new account. 

One of the major reasons for problems arises from discrepancies between the information entered on Amazon and the corresponding documentation. It’s crucial to ensure that every detail in your account aligns precisely with your official documents. Amazon employs algorithms to cross-check these details, even minor variations that might seem inconsequential could lead to document rejection. For instance, your company name should mirror your business registration documents precisely, including capitalization. Similarly, enter your personal name exactly as it appears on your government-issued ID, including any middle names present on these documents. Even small differences, like using “St.” instead of “street” in your address, can cause issues. It’s crucial to add only information that has concrete backing from your documents. 

Mismatched information between your various documents can also pose a problem. For instance, providing an ID with an outdated address alongside a utility bill with your current address may lead to rejection. 

Moreover, specific documents must meet Amazon’s timeframe requirements; for example, utility bills should be within the previous 90 days to ensure current and accurate information. 

Another critical point to consider, though not directly linked to verification, is ensuring that none of the information or documentation provided has been associated with another seller account, even if that account was never approved or activated. Reusing information already in Amazon’s records can link your new account to another, potentially leading to refusal. 

Changes in personal or business circumstances, like a divorce, might render you unable to provide Amazon with documents matching your previously entered information. To avoid such complications, keeping account details updated is crucial. However, be cautious when changing critical account information, as these changes might trigger a verification process. Consulting a specialist can significantly reduce the likelihood of triggering such verifications. 

In summary, meticulous attention to entering accurate information from the outset, along with ensuring readily accessible, up-to-date, and perfectly aligned verification documents, can prevent most common issues during the verification process. 

What Happens If Amazon seller documents are rejected?

If Amazon is unable to verify account information of amazon seller, you may face some consequences, such as:

• Your account may be suspended or terminated
• Your funds may be withheld or frozen
• Your listings may be removed or blocked
• Your customers may not be able to see or buy your products
• You may not be able to access certain features or services on Amazon

Therefore, it is important that you verify your account as soon as possible after you register as a seller on Amazon. If you encounter any amazon seller verification problems, you should contact Amazon Seller Support for assistance.

Instructions for Amazon Seller Identity Verification

To start an amazon seller verification, you need to follow these steps:

1. Log in to your [Seller Central account].
2. Go to [Settings > Account Info].
3. Under Your Seller Profile, click Edit.
4. Fill in the required fields with your personal or business information.
5. Click Submit.
6. Under Identity Verification Information, click Edit.
7. Choose whether you are an individual or a business seller.
8. Fill in the required fields with your identity information.
9. Upload copies of your identity documents, such as passport, driver’s license, national ID card, or business license.
10. Click Submit.

After you submit your information and documents, Amazon will review them and verify your identity. This may take up to 72 hours. You will receive an email notification once your verification is complete.

Amazon Request with Verification Documents

Sometimes, Amazon may request additional verification documents from you after you submit your initial information and documents. This may happen for various reasons, such as:

• Your information or documents are incomplete or incorrect
• Your information or documents are expired or invalid
• Your information or documents are inconsistent or mismatched
• Your information or documents are suspicious or fraudulent
• Your information or documents are not clear or legible

If you receive a request for additional verification documents from Amazon such as Amazon utility bill, Amazon address verification postcard, you should respond promptly and provide the requested documents within the specified time frame. You should also make sure that the documents are:

• In color
• In high resolution
• In PDF or JPEG format
• In English or accompanied by a certified translation
• In full view without any cropping or editing

Instructions for Amazon Seller Documents Rejected

These are some of the most common reasons why your Amazon seller documents were rejected, but there may be other factors involved as well. Below are the most significant factors showing the reasons and some instructions for solving this.

Why are the Documents Rejected?

If your verification documents are rejected by Amazon, you will receive an email notification with the reason for the rejection. Some of the common reasons are:

• The document is not in the list of accepted documents
• The document is not issued by a government or official authority
• The document is not in your name or does not match your information
• The document is expired or has an invalid date
• The document is altered, tampered, or forged
• The document is blurry, dark, or unreadable

 How to Handle if the Documents Are Rejected

If your documents are rejected by Amazon, you should not panic or give up. You can still try to resolve the issue and verify your identity. Here are some steps you can take:

• Review the reason for the rejection and understand what went wrong
• Find another document that meets the requirements and criteria
• Scan or take a photo of the document and upload it again
• Contact Amazon Seller Support and explain your situation
• Provide any additional information or evidence that can help your case

If you are unable to pass the Amazon seller identity verification, or if you are unhappy with the verification process, you may want to seek help from a third-party service that specializes in handling Amazon seller issues. One of these services is Amazoker.

Amazoker is a company that offers various solutions for Amazon sellers, such as:

• Account suspension recovery
• Account verification assistance
• Account reinstatement service
• Account health management
• Listing optimization service
• Product ranking service

Amazoker claims to have a team of experts who have experience and knowledge in dealing with Amazon policies and procedures. They also claim to have a high success rate and a money-back guarantee.

To use Amazoker’s services, you need to:

• Visit their website Amazoker.com and choose the service you need. For example Amazon account reinstated và Amazon Appeal
• Fill out a form with your details and issue
• Pay a fee depending on the service and complexity of your case
• Wait for Amazoker to contact you and work on your case
• Receive updates and results from Amazoker

Read more: Decoding Amazon Appeal Service Cost

Advice for Amazon Seller Identity Verification

When you start an amazon ID verification, you should keep in mind some important points, such as:

• You should provide accurate and truthful information and documents
• You should update your information and documents whenever there are changes
• You should cooperate with Amazon and respond to their requests promptly
• You should protect your information and documents from unauthorized access or use
• You should follow Amazon’s terms and conditions and policies

By doing so, you can avoid any problems or complications during the verification process and enjoy the benefits of selling on Amazon.

Some Related Questions

As the verification process becomes increasingly intricate, let’s delve into some of the most commonly asked questions regarding this matter.

How do I verify my identity on Amazon seller?

A: You can follow these steps:

• Log in to Seller Central.
• Find the “Settings” or “Account Info” section.
• Look for identity verification prompts.
• Upload required documents like ID and proof of address.
• Wait for Amazon to review your submission, which may take a few days.

How long does Amazon seller verification take?

The duration for Amazon seller verification can vary. Typically, the verification process can take a few days to a couple of weeks, but this timeline can fluctuate based on various factors. Factors influencing the verification duration include the completeness and accuracy of the information provided, the volume of verifications being processed by Amazon, and whether additional documentation or clarification is required.

Amazon aims to ensure compliance and security, so they might conduct thorough checks before approving a seller account. Providing accurate information and promptly responding to any queries from Amazon can help expedite the verification process.

Do I need an ID to sell on Amazon?

Yes, you do need identification to sell on Amazon. When you create a seller account, Amazon requires certain information to verify your identity, such as your name, address, tax ID (such as a Social Security Number in the U.S.), and in some cases, a valid government-issued ID. This helps Amazon ensure compliance with regulations and maintain a secure marketplace for buyers and sellers.

What document submission is required by amazon?

Amazon needs the following information for a seller identity verification:

• Your name
• Your address
• Your phone number
• Your email address
• Your bank account information
• Your tax information
• Your identity documents

Do I Need to Have a Business Entity (e.g., LLC) to Sell on Amazon?

No, you do not need to have a business entity (e.g., LLC) to sell on Amazon. You can sell as an individual seller using your personal information and documents. However, having a business entity may have some advantages, such as:

• Protecting your personal assets from liability
• Reducing your tax burden
• Enhancing your credibility and professionalism
• Increasing your privacy and security

Therefore, you may want to consider forming a business entity if you plan to sell on Amazon seriously and long-term.

What Happens If My Information Is Incorrect in Seller Central?

If your information is incorrect in Seller Central, you should correct it as soon as possible. Incorrect information may cause issues such as:

• Delayed or failed payments
• Incorrect tax reporting
• Inaccurate seller profile page
• Verification failure or rejection

To correct your information in Seller Central, you need to:

1. Log in to your [Seller Central account].
2. Go to [Settings > Account Info].
3. Under Your Seller Profile, click Edit.
4. Make the necessary changes to your information.
5. Click Submit.

You may also need to upload new or updated documents to verify your information.

Amazon seller identity verification is a process that helps Amazon ensure the safety and security of its customers and sellers. It also helps Amazon comply with local and international laws and regulations. To verify your identity with Amazon, you need to provide personal or business information, such as name, address, phone number, email, bank statement, tax information, and identity documents. You should provide accurate and truthful information and documents and update them whenever there are changes. For more information, sellers can visit the Amazoker website at amazoker.com or contact them via email at [email protected] or phone at +1 580 262 6126.