Venmo Pay for Something with Verified ID Requirements Explained

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To use Venmo to pay for something with a verified ID, you'll need to link a bank account or debit card to your Venmo account. This is because Venmo requires a verified account to send payments.

Venmo's verification process typically takes a few minutes, but can take up to 24 hours in some cases. This is because the platform needs to confirm your account information with your bank or card issuer.

Once your account is verified, you can use Venmo to send payments to individuals or businesses. You can also use Venmo to pay for goods and services online, in-store, or through the Venmo app.

Identity Verification Process

If you're having trouble with the automated ID verification process, don't worry. Sometimes, the information is unavailable or your name or address has changed, and you'll need to send Venmo documentation to confirm your identity.

To complete identity verification, you'll need to upload some documents. For US residents, a government-issued ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID is required. If you don't have any of these IDs available, Venmo may accept alternative forms of identification like birth certificates or Social Security cards.

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The required documents will vary depending on your location and the type of account you have. For business accounts, Venmo may require additional documentation like tax identification numbers and business licenses.

If you're not a US resident and still want to use Venmo services, you'll need to provide different documentation. Generally speaking, most foreign nationals would need an IRS Form W-8BEN to be eligible for the service.

Here are some examples of acceptable documents for identity verification:

  • U.S. passport
  • Driver license
  • U.S. government-issued ID
  • DHS card
  • Tribal ID card
  • Bank, credit card, or 401K/brokerage statement (from the past 12 months)
  • Utility bill (gas, electric, cable, internet, or phone from the past 12 months)
  • W2 or paystub (from the past 12 months)
  • Lease for residence (dated in the past 12 months)
  • Current car registration (dated in the past 12 months)
  • IRS letter (dated in the past 12 months)
  • SSN card
  • ITIN Assignment letter

Make sure to upload clear and legible images of your documents, without any blurs. This will help Venmo verify your identity quickly and efficiently.

What Documents for Identity Verification?

To complete identity verification on Venmo, you'll need to upload some documents. For US residents, a government-issued ID like a driver's license, passport, or state ID is required.

The required documents will vary depending on your location and the type of account you have. If you're not a US resident, you'll likely need an IRS Form W-8BEN to be eligible for the service.

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Venmo may accept alternative forms of identification like birth certificates or Social Security cards if you don't have a government-issued ID. Business accounts may require additional documentation, including tax identification numbers and business licenses.

To confirm your identity, you can upload documents directly from the Venmo app. You can see what additional documents are requested by navigating to Settings → Venmo Debit Card.

Here are some acceptable documents for identity verification:

  • U.S. passport
  • Driver license
  • U.S. government-issued ID
  • DHS card
  • Tribal ID card
  • Bank, credit card, or 401K/brokerage statement (from the past 12 months)
  • Utility bill (gas, electric, cable, internet, or phone from the past 12 months)
  • W2 or paystub (from the past 12 months)
  • Lease for residence (dated in the past 12 months)
  • Current car registration (dated in the past 12 months)
  • IRS letter (dated in the past 12 months)
  • SSN card
  • ITIN Assignment letter

Make sure the documents you upload are clear and legible, with no blurs on the images provided.

Payment Restrictions and Limitations

If you're having trouble making payments with your Venmo balance, it may be because you haven't verified your identity. This is due to the U.S. Patriot Act, which requires Venmo to verify users' identities.

To verify your identity in the app, you'll need to follow a few simple steps. Go to the "Me" tab on the far right, tap "Settings" in the top right corner, and then scroll down to "Security", where you should see "Identity Verification."

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Venmo collects a variety of documentation and information to verify you, including your name, address, date of birth, Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. You may also be asked to upload up-to-date documents for other purposes.

If Venmo needs additional verification of your name and date of birth, you'll need to provide one of the following documents: a U.S. passport, driver license, government-issued ID, DHS card, or tribal ID card.

To make payments with your Venmo balance, it's essential to have a verified identity. This will ensure that your transactions are secure and processed smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to give Venmo your ID?

Venmo's system is heavily protected and sensitive information is redacted after viewing, ensuring your ID is secure. Learn more about Venmo's safety measures and how they keep your information private.

Timothy Gutkowski-Stoltenberg

Senior Writer

Timothy Gutkowski-Stoltenberg is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he has established himself as a versatile and reliable voice in the industry. His writing portfolio showcases a breadth of expertise, with a particular focus on the freight market trends.

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