How To Get Verified On X (Formerly Twitter)

Introduction.

Getting that coveted blue checkmark next to your name on X (formerly known as Twitter) has always been a sign of credibility, influence, and recognition.

Whether you’re a brand, a public figure, or even just someone who’s built a significant online presence, that small symbol can make a big difference. But with X evolving (and Twitter rebranding), the path to verification has changed too.

Let me walk you through the ins and outs of how you can get verified on X today.

What Is Verification on X?

Verification is X’s way of telling the world, “Yep, this person is who they say they are.” It’s designed to confirm the authenticity of accounts, especially those belonging to notable individuals, organizations, or public figures.

The iconic blue checkmark is the badge of verification and signals that your account is both legitimate and relevant.

Who Can Get Verified?

Before X’s rebranding from Twitter, the verification process was somewhat exclusive, and reserved for celebrities, journalists, companies, and politicians.

However, in recent years, the platform opened the door for more users, including influencers, creators, and even niche experts. The good news? If you fit into one of the following categories, you can apply:

• Government officials and agencies
• Companies, brands, and organizations
• Journalists and news organizations
• Entertainment figures (like actors, musicians, etc.)
• Sports figures and teams
• Content creators or influencers
• Anyone with significant public interest (you’ll need to prove it)

Steps to Get Verified on X

1. Meet the Eligibility Criteria
   First off, X still wants to make sure you’re noteworthy. You’ll need to show that you have a certain level of prominence in your field. This might mean having a substantial follower count, media coverage, or being mentioned in reputable sources. Accounts with 100,000+ followers, for example, are more likely to be approved, though smaller but highly relevant accounts can also make the cut.
2. Optimize Your Profile
   The basics still matter. Ensure that your profile is complete and accurate:
   • A verified phone number and email address
   • A recognizable profile picture
   • A bio that reflects your expertise or why you’re relevant
   • Links to websites or other social accounts that prove your credibility
3. Apply for Verification
   Once you feel your profile is in good shape, you can submit a verification request directly from the app. Here’s how:
   • Go to Settings > Account Information > Verification Request
   • Choose the category that best describes you.
   • Upload the necessary documents or links to prove your notability (think news articles, references, or other third-party content).

   After submitting your request, X will typically respond within a few weeks. If you’re rejected, don’t stress—you can reapply after 30 days.

4. Subscribe to X Premium (Optional)
   This is one of the new twists in X’s verification policy. By subscribing to X Premium (previously known as Twitter Blue), users can get the checkmark by paying for it. Currently, X Premium costs $8/month or $84/year. While this is an option, you might not want to rely solely on this if you’re hoping for recognition beyond just paying for a subscription.

What Happens After You’re Verified?

Once you’re verified, you’ll notice a few perks besides the blue check. For instance:

• Your account becomes more visible in searches and replies.
• You’ll gain priority in conversations and trending topics.
• Verified users often experience an increase in followers since the checkmark symbolizes trust.

But it’s important to note that verification isn’t an endgame—it’s just a tool to help solidify your online presence.

Pros of Getting Verified on X

1. Increased Credibility
   A blue checkmark tells the world you’re the real deal, making it easier for people to trust your content and engage with you.
2. More Engagement
   With verification, your posts are more likely to be seen, as the platform boosts verified accounts in replies, searches, and notifications.
3. Brand Protection
   For businesses, getting verified can prevent imposters from pretending to be you or your brand. The checkmark adds an extra layer of protection for your reputation.
4. Access to Premium Features
   If you’re also subscribed to X Premium, you’ll enjoy added benefits like longer video uploads, customizable icons, and even fewer ads.

Cons of Getting Verified on X

1. Subscription Requirement
   The shift towards X Premium has made verification feel less special for some users. Paying for verification may give off the impression that the checkmark can be “bought” rather than earned through notability.
2. Public Scrutiny
   Being verified can put you under more intense public scrutiny, especially if you’re a public figure. People often expect verified users to behave or communicate in a certain way.
3. Rejection and Reapplication
   X’s verification process isn’t perfect. If your application is rejected, it might be frustrating, especially if you believe you’re deserving. And, waiting for 30 days before reapplying can feel like a long time.
4. No Magic Bullet for Success
   While the blue checkmark is a badge of honor, it won’t automatically make you successful or increase your follower count overnight. It’s a tool to amplify your efforts but not a guarantee for social media fame.

Conclusion

Getting verified on X can be a valuable asset, whether you’re a content creator, business, or just someone who wants to boost their digital presence.

It helps you stand out in a crowded space, lends credibility to your profile, and even offers a few perks. However, it’s not without its downsides—particularly the emphasis on paying for X Premium.

So, do you think the benefits of verification outweigh the downsides, or is the process too focused on monetization these days? Let me know your thoughts!