Amazon seller identity verification: what you need and why it fails
Identity verification is the last step of Amazon seller registration — and where many new sellers get stuck. Here’s what Amazon asks for, and the document rules to get right the first time.
What to have ready
Before you start registering, Amazon says you’ll need:
- a government-issued ID (such as a passport);
- a credit card;
- a bank account — in your name or your business’s name;
- your business license or registration (if you’re a business);
- proof of residential address;
- tax information.
The verification step
Amazon asks you to upload:
- your government-issued ID;
- proof of residential or business address dated within the last 180 days, such as a bank or credit card statement.
Then you’ll be asked to do one of the following:
- take a photo of your face and your ID; or
- join or schedule a video call with an Amazon associate — bring your ID and proof of address to the call.
Amazon says verification usually takes three business days or less.
Why verification fails
Amazon’s document rules are specific:
- Use high-quality color scans or photos that show all four corners, with legible text.
- No screenshots and no blurry images.
- Documents that need a signature must be signed.
Beyond the upload rules, make sure your details are consistent with your documents:
- Your name — enter your full legal name exactly as on your ID, including a middle name if it’s there.
- Your address — the address on your proof of address should match what you entered.
- Your business name — enter the exact name registered with the government office.
- An old statement — proof of address must be from the last 180 days.
If you’re registering for a business but aren’t its legal representative, Amazon may ask for a letter authorizing you to act for the business.
After you’re verified
You get access to Seller Central. Before listing, set up your account — and check what each sale will cost you with the Amazon fee calculator.
Not sure which plan to register with? See Amazon Individual vs Professional plans.