How to Verify Your YouTube Account (And Why You Must Do It Now)

If you're serious about your channel, there's a simple, 2-minute task you must complete right now: verifying your YouTube account. This is a one-time security step that proves you're a real person and not a bot, and it unlocks essential features for growth.

The Key Benefits of a Verified Account

Once you verify, you immediately gain access to these critical features:

• Upload Videos Longer Than 15 Minutes: This is essential for creating in-depth content that builds watch time.
• Add Custom Thumbnails: Thumbnails are crucial for getting clicks. Without verification, you can't upload your own custom images.
• Live Stream: You cannot go live on YouTube without a verified account.
• Appeal Content ID Claims: This gives you the ability to dispute copyright claims on your videos.

The 2-Minute Verification Process (Step-by-Step)

Verifying is incredibly easy. Here's how:

1. Go to youtube.com/verify (you'll need to be signed in).
2. Select your country and choose how you want to receive your verification code (text or voice call).
3. Enter your phone number and click "Get Code."
4. Enter the 6-digit verification code you receive on your phone.
5. Click "Submit." You'll see a confirmation message: "Congratulations! Your YouTube account is now verified."

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the same as the verification checkmark badge?
No. This phone verification is for unlocking features. The grey checkmark badge is for proving the authenticity of an established channel and has different requirements.

Does it cost anything?
No, verifying your account is completely free.