Guide
YouTube Verification Badge: Who Gets It and How to Apply
The badge for YouTube verification is the grey check beside an official channel's name, and YouTube's own page sets the bar at 100,000 subscribers to apply. This guide separates that badge from the phone check that unlocks features, and shows how to do each.
What the badge for YouTube verification is, and what it is not
YouTube says a verified channel is the official channel of a creator, artist, company or public figure. The check mark helps viewers tell the real channel from an imitator with a similar name.
YouTube also says verified channels do not get extra features. The badge is about authenticity, not reach or earnings.
Who can apply for the badge
As of 5 October 2026, YouTube's page asks for 100,000 subscribers, 2-step verification turned on and a complete profile, among other requirements. If you meet them, the application is offered in YouTube Studio. YouTube can change the rules, so read its page before you plan around them.
Verify your YouTube account for features
This is a different step, and anyone can do it. YouTube asks you to confirm your phone number with a code, and once you do, you can use features that unverified channels cannot, such as longer uploads and custom thumbnails.
You can also start from youtube.com/verify, or go to YouTube Studio, open Settings, then Channel and Feature eligibility, and look for the phone verification. Menus move, so check YouTube's own help page if you cannot find it.
Protect the channel while you grow
Turn on 2-step verification, keep your profile complete, and use one name and picture across your platforms. Those are the things YouTube checks for the badge, and they protect you against imitators sooner than a badge would.
Sources
Questions
How to get verified on YouTube?
For the badge, reach the subscriber bar YouTube sets and apply in YouTube Studio. For features, verify your phone number, which any channel can do.
How to verify your YouTube account with a phone?
Open YouTube Studio, go to Settings, then Channel and Feature eligibility, and follow the phone verification steps. You will receive a code to enter.
Does the badge help me earn money?
No. Earnings come through the Partner Program, which has its own rules. The badge only shows that the channel is the official one.
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