Account and advertiser identity verification
Mandatory identity verification builds marketplace trust and displays verified merchant badges on Bing. Here is how to complete business and identity verification.
The purpose of Microsoft Advertiser Identity Verification#
To eliminate fraudulent advertising, deceptive merchant clones, and brand impersonation, Microsoft Advertising enforces mandatory identity verification across all commercial accounts.
Completed verification displays an official verified advertiser badge on your search ads and powers the public Microsoft Ad Library disclosure disclosures as detailed in Microsoft Advertiser Identity Docs, 2026.
Mandatory business and personal documentation#
Depending on whether your account represents a registered corporate entity or an individual sole trader, you must supply official documentation:
- Organizations: Certificate of Incorporation, VAT/Tax Registration Certificate, or official Companies House filing as outlined in Microsoft Transparency Policies, 2026.
- Authorized Representative: Government-issued photo ID (Passport, Driving Licence, or National Identity Card).
The 30-day verification deadline and account pausing#
When an account is notified to complete verification, Microsoft provides a 30-day completion window. Failure to submit documents within 30 days results in temporary ad serving suspension until verification is approved.
Do not ignore verification notifications; accounts will be automatically paused on day 31 if documentation is unsubmitted.
Managing verification across Manager Accounts (MCC)#
Agencies operating Manager Accounts must ensure each client sub-account completes verification under the client's legal entity name rather than the agency's name.
Explore our Microsoft Ads Hub for agency governance templates.
Verification submission preparation checklist#
Follow this five-point checklist before submitting verification documentation.
- Legal Name Match: Ensure account billing name exactly matches corporate registration documents.
- High-Resolution Scans: Provide full-colour, uncropped PDF or JPG scans of certificates.
- Valid ID Expiry: Confirm government ID is current and not within 30 days of expiration.
- Matching Address: Corporate utility bill or bank statement matching billing address.
- Submit via Portal: Upload documents exclusively through Tools > Advertiser Verification.
Frequently asked questions#
Is Advertiser Identity Verification mandatory on Microsoft Ads?
Yes, Microsoft is progressively rolling out mandatory identity verification across all global advertising accounts.
How long do I have to complete verification after being notified?
Advertisers have 30 calendar days from the notification date to submit required documentation before ad serving is paused.
What documents are accepted for business verification?
Accepted documents include Certificate of Incorporation, official tax registration certificates, Companies House filings, or corporate bank statements.
How long does it take for Microsoft to review submitted documents?
Document review typically takes 3 to 5 business days, during which ads continue to serve normally.
Does my verified name appear publicly on Bing?
Yes, users can click the ad badge to view your legal business name and registered operating location in the Microsoft Ad Library.
Read more on this topic#
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Read the entryNeed assistance completing your corporate advertiser verification?
folkfox manages seamless identity verification and corporate compliance workflows on Microsoft Advertising.