Identity Verification (IDV) is a security check that confirms your identity and personal information. It helps protect Zencastr's earning programs from fraud and abuse while creating a fair and secure environment for creators.
Identity Verification is required for creators who earn money through Zencastr's earning programs. It is not required for general Zencastr account usage. If you participate in an earning program, your Identity Verification must be approved before you can withdraw your earnings and receive payments.
When Is Identity Verification Required?
If you participate in a Zencastr earning program, you must complete Identity Verification and have it approved before you can withdraw your earnings.
When Identity Verification is required, you'll be prompted to complete it in the Earn tab of your Zencastr account. Depending on your earning program, it may appear in one of two places:
In Your Offers: Some earning programs include Identity Verification as the first milestone or a later milestone within an Offer.
In Your Wallet: If Identity Verification is not part of your Offer, you'll be prompted to complete it when you request a withdrawal from your Wallet.
Some earning programs may allow you to accumulate earnings before completing Identity Verification, but all programs require approved Identity Verification before payments can be issued.
Preparing for Identity Verification
Most creators can complete the Identity Verification process in approximately 5–10 minutes.
Before starting, make sure you have:
A valid government-issued photo ID
You'll need the original, physical document. The accepted ID types vary by country, but passports and driver's licenses are accepted in most. You'll see the available options once you start verification. Additional information about accepted ID types may also be available in your earning program's FAQs.A device with a working camera
Use a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a working camera. For the best results, we recommend a camera capable of at least 1920 × 1080 resolution. Lower-resolution cameras may have difficulty capturing clear photos, which can increase the chance of verification issues.A stable internet connection
Make sure your device is connected throughout the process.A few uninterrupted minutes
Set aside enough time to complete the process in one session.
Having everything ready will help you complete verification without interruptions. Before starting, review the photo guidelines in How to Complete Identity Verification below to help avoid unsuccessful attempts.
How to Complete Identity Verification
Zencastr uses Persona, a third-party identity verification provider, to complete the verification process.
To get started, click the Identity Verification link in your Offer or Wallet and follow the on-screen instructions.
You'll be asked to take separate photos of your government-issued ID and yourself. Follow the guidelines below to help ensure your photos meet the verification requirements.
Taking a Photo of Your ID
ID only: Take a photo of the ID by itself, not of you with the ID. Your ID photo and selfie should be taken as separate photos.
Use your physical ID: Take a photo of your original, intact government-issued ID. Photocopies, digital copies, screenshots, and photos of an ID displayed on another screen are not accepted.
Capture the entire document: Make sure all four corners are visible and no information is cut off.
Use a plain background: Place your ID on a flat surface with a background that contrasts with the document.
Keep the image clear: Make sure the photo is in focus and all text and details are easy to read.
Avoid glare and shadows: Use even lighting and avoid reflections, shadows, or bright lights that can obscure any information on the ID.
Follow the instructions: If you're asked to photograph both sides of your ID, make sure each side is clearly captured.
Taking Your Selfie
Keep your face fully visible: Make sure your forehead, eyes, nose, mouth, and chin are clearly visible.
Remove face coverings: Take off glasses, sunglasses, hats, masks, or other items that could obstruct your face.
Use a neutral background: Stand or sit in front of a plain background, such as a light-colored wall.
Use good lighting: Use a well-lit area with light in front of or above you. Avoid backlighting (bright light behind you), such as standing in front of a window or lamp, as it can create shadows or glare that make your face hard to see.
Look directly at the camera: Keep your face centered, your eyes open, and your head facing forward. Avoid taking the photo from an angle.
Keep the camera steady: Hold your camera still at eye level, or prop it against something stable. Make sure the photo is focused and not blurry.
Follow the on-screen prompts: You may be asked to look straight ahead and turn your head during verification. Move only your head, not your camera. Photos are captured automatically.
Take your time when capturing your photos. Clear images and accurate information help your verification proceed smoothly.
What Happens After You Submit Identity Verification?
Once you've completed the verification steps, your information is submitted for approval.
Your Identity Verification must be approved before you can withdraw your earnings. Completing the steps and submitting your information does not automatically mean your identity has been verified.
Checking Your Verification Status
Your verification status is available in your Account Settings, where you can return to check for updates. It may take several minutes for your verification status to update after submission.
To check your current status:
Click your profile icon in the lower-left corner.
Under Account, click Settings.
Under Identity Verification, check your Verification Status.
Understanding Your Verification Status
Your Verification Status will show one of the following:
Not Started: You haven’t started the Identity Verification process.
Pending: You haven't finished the Identity Verification process.
Under Review: Your submission requires additional review before a decision can be made.
Rejected: Your identity could not be verified from your submission.
Approved: Your identity has been successfully verified.
Retrying Identity Verification
You have a maximum of three attempts to complete Identity Verification successfully, including your first attempt. If your verification is Pending or Rejected and you have attempts remaining, you can continue or retry the process from your Account Settings.
Before trying again, carefully review the instructions in How to Complete Identity Verification, especially the guidelines for photographing your ID and taking your selfie. Following these guidelines can help you avoid unsuccessful attempts and reaching your limit.
To continue or retry your identity verification:
Click your profile icon in the lower-left corner.
Under Account, click Settings.
Under Identity Verification, select Continue Verification or Retry Verification, depending on your status.
Identity Verification and Your Payments
Once your Identity Verification is approved, you've satisfied the identity verification requirement for receiving creator payouts.
Approval does not mean your payment will be sent immediately. Withdrawals are still subject to Zencastr's standard payment-processing timelines.
For more information about available earnings, withdrawals, and payment processing, see Managing Earnings in Your Wallet.
Related Questions
Is Identity Verification secure?
Yes. Identity Verification is completed through Persona, a trusted identity verification provider used by many companies. Information collected during verification is handled in accordance with the Zencastr Privacy Policy and Persona's privacy and security practices.
How long does Identity Verification take?
Most creators complete the verification steps in approximately 5–10 minutes. We recommend preparing your documents and setting aside a few uninterrupted minutes before starting.
The time needed to review and approve your submission may vary. You can check your current verification status in your account settings.
I've reached the maximum number of Identity Verification attempts. What should I do?
You have up to three attempts to complete Identity Verification successfully. If you've reached the maximum number of attempts without approval, contact Zencastr Support by email or chat for assistance.