What Business Verification is
Business Verification is Meta's process for confirming that a real, legitimate business is behind an ad account. It requires you to submit documentation — typically a business registration document, tax certificate, or utility bill in the business name — that proves your business exists and operates from the address on file.
This is different from personal identity verification (which Meta may also request). Business Verification is about the entity, not the individual. An LLC, sole proprietorship, or incorporated business can be verified — Meta just needs proof the business is real.
Why Meta is requiring it now
Meta expanded Business Verification requirements to all active ad accounts in 2026 as part of a broader push to reduce fraud and improve advertiser accountability. Previously, it was required for certain categories (financial products, employment ads) but not universally. The 2026 expansion made it a baseline requirement for anyone running ads.
Meta doesn't always notify accounts well in advance. Many businesses received a notification in Account Quality or via email, didn't act on it within the given timeframe, and found their accounts restricted on what seemed like a random day.
How to complete Business Verification
In Meta Business Suite or Business Manager, navigate to Business Settings. Look for the Security Center in the left menu. Business Verification is listed there.
Meta offers several verification methods depending on your country: business documentation upload, domain verification, or verification through a Meta-approved business partner. Document upload is the most universal option.
Accepted documents vary by country but typically include: business registration certificate, articles of incorporation, business license, or a utility bill in the business name with matching address. Make sure the document name and address match what's in your Meta account exactly.
Meta typically reviews Business Verification submissions within 3–5 business days. Some submissions take longer. You'll receive a notification in Business Manager when the review is complete.
Special note for financial service businesses
If your business operates in banking, lending, insurance, cryptocurrency, or fintech — standard Business Verification is not enough. Meta requires both business verification and personal identity verification for the account admin running financial product ads. This expanded requirement went into effect in March 2026. If you're in this category and haven't completed both layers, your ads will remain restricted regardless of how your content looks.
After verification is approved
If your account was restricted due to an incomplete verification, the restriction typically lifts automatically once Meta approves your submission — you don't need to file a separate appeal. However, if the restriction remains after approval, you can then contact Business Support and reference the completed verification as documentation.