Alexis Kestler
Have you ever gotten an email from Venmo asking you to "please verify your account"? Or maybe you‘ve run into inconvenient weekly spending limits on the app.
If so, chances are you need to complete Venmo‘s identity verification process.
Verifying who you say you are is a key step in unlocking the fast, convenient money transfer experience that makes Venmo so popular. By confirming your identity, you can:
- Remove weekly spending limits
- Link bank accounts and credit cards
- Increase security and prevent fraud
- Fully comply with federal regulations
But completing ID verification on Venmo doesn‘t need to be a hassle. With this comprehensive guide, you‘ll learn how to breeze through the verification steps and get back to seamlessly sending and receiving money.
I‘ll walk you through exactly what information you need, what documents to have ready, tips for a smooth process, and answers to common verification questions.
So let‘s get started on properly verifying your identity on Venmo!
Why You Should Verify Your Venmo Account
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, it helps to understand why Venmo requires ID verification in the first place.
Here are the main reasons it‘s important for all users to confirm their identity:
Remove Weekly Spending Limits
One of the biggest perks of verifying your Venmo account is increased transaction freedom.
Venmo places the following weekly spending limits on unverified users as a precautionary measure:
- $299 weekly spending limit
- $799 monthly spending limit
For anyone using Venmo frequently, these default limits quickly become a headache.
However, by verifying your identity, Venmo will lift these restrictions entirely.
You‘ll be able to send and receive unlimited payments (within reason) without constantly bumping up against annoying limits.
Link External Funding Sources
A verified Venmo account also lets you link funding sources like your bank account or credit card.
Connecting an external bank account or card provides a couple key benefits:
- Instantly add funds to your Venmo balance from linked accounts
- Instantly cash out your Venmo balance to a connected bank account
It makes moving money in and out of Venmo a breeze.
However, Venmo requires identity confirmation before allowing these connections as an added security measure.
Increased Protection Against Fraud
Collecting identifying documents from each user helps Venmo confirm accounts are legitimate.
Venmo can cross-reference your personal information with public records to verify you are who you claim to be.
This identity check adds a critical layer of protection against scammers and fraudsters abusing the platform.
By completing verification, you help Venmo block bad actors and keep everyone‘s money secure.
Required by Federal Regulations
Finally, identity verification is mandatory in order for Venmo to comply with federal know-your-customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.
As a money transmitter handling billions in transactions, Venmo must confirm identifying details on all accounts.
This regulatory requirement ensures funds aren‘t used for illegal purposes. Failing to verify could result in your account being frozen.
So in summary:
- Removing spending limits
- Linking payment methods
- Enhanced security
- Compliance with the law
Are all compelling reasons to complete Venmo‘s straightforward identity verification process.
Now let‘s get into the step-by-step guide…
Step-By-Step Guide to Verifying Your Venmo ID
Verifying your identity on Venmo only takes a few minutes when you have the right documents on hand.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Collect Required Documents
Before starting the verification process, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Social Security Number
- Mobile phone to access Venmo app
Having these documents close by ensures the process goes quickly and smoothly.
Acceptable government-issued photo IDs include:
- Driver‘s license
- Passport
- Military ID
- State-issued ID card
The ID you submit must be currently valid – make sure it hasn‘t expired.
Also have your 9-digit Social Security Number handy as you‘ll need to enter the last 4 digits.
Step 2: Log Into the Venmo Mobile App
Access the Venmo app on your mobile device and log into your account.
You can only complete identity verification directly within the iOS or Android app. It‘s not possible on Venmo‘s mobile web version.
If you don‘t already have the app installed, download it now from the App Store or Google Play.
Step 3: Navigate to Verify Identity
From your Venmo home screen, tap the profile icon in the top-right corner, then tap "Settings".
Under "Security", select "Verify Identity".
Step 4: Enter Your Personal Details
Venmo will first prompt you to enter some personal details, including:
- Full legal name
- Home address
- Date of birth
- Last 4 digits of your SSN
Triple check that all details you enter match exactly what is listed on your government ID.
Any mismatches in spellings or details between your inputs and ID will delay the verification process.
Step 5: Upload Your Photo ID
After entering your details, you‘ll need to upload a picture of your government-issued photo ID.
Make sure the photo or scan you upload clearly shows:
- Your full name
- Photo
- ID number
- Expiration date
- Date of birth
A high-quality, well-lit photo ensures all text is readable so Venmo can match your details to their databases.
You may need to adjust the lighting or use your phone‘s document scanning feature to capture a crisp image.
Step 6: Confirm Your Email & Phone Number
As a final step, you‘ll need to validate the email address and phone number currently associated with your Venmo account.
Venmo will send a 6-digit confirmation code to your email that you must enter into the app.
You‘ll also receive an SMS text with a 6-digit code to your phone to complete confirmation.
Step 7: Submit and Await Verification
Once you‘ve entered all details and documentation, tap "Submit" in the Venmo app.
Venmo will now automatically verify your personal information against public records and ID databases.
The verification process typically takes just a few minutes. However, it can take up to 3 business days in some cases.
If Venmo needs to do additional manual review, remain patient during this period. There‘s no need to contact support unless it exceeds 3 days.
You‘ll receive an in-app notification once your identity verification is complete!
Then you can get back to seamlessly sending and receiving money without annoying restrictions.
5 Expert Tips for Smooth Sailing
To ensure your Venmo verification goes off without a hitch, keep these pro tips in mind:
1. Use a Strong WiFi or Cellular Connection
A slow, unstable internet connection can disrupt the upload process. Verify using a strong WiFi or cellular data connection to prevent timeouts.
2. Take a Clear, Well-Lit Photo of Your ID
A blurry, dark ID photo is a common reason verifications get delayed. Make sure there‘s ample lighting and use your phone‘s scanning mode if available.
3. Double Check All Entered Details
Carefully verify all personal details you enter match your government ID perfectly. Any typos or errors could hold up verification.
4. Have Documents Ready Before Starting
Don‘t begin identity verification until you have your government-issued ID, SSN, and access to your Venmo account ready. Rushing to find documents mid-process can cause issues.
5. Contact Support If Issues Persist
In rare cases, verifications get stuck pending even after 72 hours. If this happens, reach out to Venmo‘s support team through the in-app chat or online form for assistance getting approved.
Following these tips will help your verification go smoothly so you can get back to using Venmo‘s services restriction-free.
Venmo Verification Frequently Asked Questions
Let‘s go over answers to some of the most frequently asked questions around completing Venmo identity verification:
How long does Venmo verification take?
Most verifications are completed instantly after submitting your details and documents. However, it can take up to 3 business days if Venmo requires additional review.
What if I don‘t have a Social Security Number?
Unfortunately, submitting your SSN is required to complete Venmo identity verification. Without an SSN, you won‘t be able to verify your account.
Is Venmo identity verification safe?
Yes, Venmo uses bank-grade encryption and security measures to protect your personal information during verification. They are legally required to collect this data.
What happens if I don‘t verify my Venmo account?
You‘ll be permanently limited to only sending or receiving $299 per week with an unverified account. You also can‘t link payment methods or cash out your balance until you complete verification.
Can I verify my Venmo account without an ID?
No, all users must upload a valid, government-issued photo identification document to complete the verification process.
I‘m having issues getting verified – what should I do?
First, double check all information you entered matches your government ID. If problems persist, reach out to Venmo‘s customer support team for help resolving any issues.
Enjoy Venmo Without Restrictions
And that‘s everything you need to know to swiftly verify your identity on Venmo!
While an extra step, identity verification unlocks the seamless, convenient money transfer experience that makes Venmo so useful.
By confirming your account and lifting limits, you can easily:
- Send money to friends
- Pay each other back
- Split bills and expenses
- Cash out your balance
All without pesky weekly limits or needing to constantly add friends as Venmo contacts.
So be sure to follow the steps above, keep our expert tips in mind, and don‘t hesitate to reach out for assistance if you encounter any issues getting verified.
Before you know it, you‘ll be back to enjoying Venmo to its full potential!
