How much does it cost to verify yourself on Twitter?

Interesting Facts

The blue checkmark on Twitter—a once coveted emblem signaling authenticity—has undergone a significant transformation over the past few years. What used to be a mostly free badge awarded to well-known public figures, brands, and creators, has now shifted toward a subscription-based system. If you’ve recently found yourself wondering, “How much does it cost to verify yourself on Twitter?” or “How do you verify a Twitter account nowadays?” you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the changing world of Twitter verification, the cost behind it today, the X Premium subscription, and what being verified really means in 2024.

A Brief History: How Twitter Verification Used to Work

For a bit of background, Twitter—now rebranded as X—started offering verification back in 2009. Originally, the purpose of the blue checkmark was straightforward: to authenticate accounts of public interest. That included politicians, celebrities, journalists, and notable organizations who might otherwise be targets of impersonators or misinformation. In those early days, the verification process was free, and being verified stood for credibility and official status.

However, as Twitter grew, so did the challenges. The free verification program ran into problems: pranksters, scammers, and bots tried to get verified, leading to confusion about what the checkmark actually stood for. Was it a sign of fame, trustworthiness, or simply a random digital accessory? To combat growing abuse, Twitter’s approach needed an overhaul. More details on the history and evolution of verification can be found at Wikipedia’s Twitter verification page.

The Shift to a Paid Verification Model

The turning point came in late 2022. Twitter announced a radical change: verification badges would no longer be awarded purely on the basis of notability or identity confirmation. Instead, the blue checkmarks became part of a paid subscription service called X Premium. This meant users who wanted the coveted checkmark now had to pay a monthly fee—roughly $8 at the standard rate.

So how much exactly does Twitter verification cost today? For most users, the answer is simple: $8 per month to subscribe to X Premium. This monthly fee replaced the previously free, selective verification process, setting off heated debates online about the accessibility and meaning of the blue checkmark. More insight into this shift and its implications can be read in depth on social media analyses like Should You Pay for a Checkmark on Twitter?.

But is this cost uniform around the world? Not quite. While $8 is the base, factors like taxes, currency exchange rates, and regional pricing can make the fee slightly higher or lower depending on your location. Still, it generally hovers close to that figure in most countries.

What Does Verification Through X Premium Include?

One might think the blue checkmark itself is the main attraction, but the subscription offers more than just a badge. X Premium subscribers unlock a range of features designed to enhance their Twitter (or X) experience: they can post longer tweets, edit posts, see fewer ads, and prioritize replies to better engage with their audience.

In this way, the checkmark has evolved from simply being a symbol of verified identity to a visible marker of subscription status. Paid members stand out in feeds not just because of who they are, but because they’re part of an exclusive club with extra perks.

That said, paying the fee doesn’t grant you immunity or permanent status. Subscribers must also follow Twitter’s rules closely. Engaging in hate speech, spam, or spreading misinformation can lead to losing the verification checkmark—even if you’re paying for it.

This policy shows Twitter’s effort to maintain a baseline of trust and responsibility despite turning verification into a paid service. To learn more about the rules governing verified accounts, visit Twitter’s official guide on verified accounts.

How Does One Get Verified on Twitter Now?

The old verification method involved applying, submitting proof of identity, and showing wide public interest or media recognition. Now, the process is more straightforward but also more transactional:

1. Log into your Twitter (X) account.
2. Go to the subscription section and choose to enroll in X Premium.
3. Pay the monthly fee of around $8.
4. Continue following the platform’s rules to retain your verification status.

In essence, verification today is less about who you are or what you’ve done, and more about whether you’re willing and able to pay the subscription—assuming you maintain a record of good behavior on the platform.

This shift has democratized access in some ways, allowing virtually anyone to get the blue checkmark if they subscribe, but it’s also blurred the lines between social status, authenticity, and financial means.

What Changed for Public Figures and Brands?

The changes haven’t been painless for everyone. Public figures, journalists, activists, and brands who once worked hard to earn their free verification badges have protested the move. They argue that verification should signal identity and credibility, not just who pays a fee.

Under the new system, the checkmark no longer guarantees someone is an authority or a genuine figure. Instead, it’s become more of a “subscriber” indicator. This shift can be confusing for audiences trying to distinguish trusted sources from paid accounts.

Brands and businesses still invest in X Premium because the checkmark can enhance their visibility, improve the perception of legitimacy, and open doors to special features. But the badge’s value as a symbol of authority has diminished somewhat, becoming more a matter of convenience and branding than verifiable trust. For services related to buying or selling verified badges or accounts, you might explore offerings like those on ViralAccounts’ Twitter verification badge services.

Beyond Dollars: The Wider Cost of Verification

The subscription fee is just one part of the story. Verification on Twitter also carries social and reputational costs. For many users, the blue checkmark represented external validation—proof that a voice was heard and recognized. Now, that signal has changed meaning.

Does dropping $8 a month guarantee influence or trust? Not necessarily. While the badge can increase engagement and make your account appear more important, true authority depends on the content you share and the community you build.

It’s worth considering how paying to verify impacts your digital identity. For some, the checkmark might help build connections or promote a brand. But others might feel it cheapens the value of their presence, replacing prestige with a paywall.

Is There a Way to Get Verified Without Paying?

Since late 2022, free verification has mostly disappeared for the average user. However, Twitter (X) still provides some exceptions. Government agencies, emergency services, and certain well-recognized institutions occasionally receive verification without needing to subscribe, usually based on strict criteria.

But these cases are rare and tightly controlled. For most people, the system has become direct: pay to be verified—or remain unverified.

How Does Twitter’s Model Compare to Other Platforms?

Looking beyond Twitter reveals a variety of approaches to online verification:

• Facebook and Instagram still award their blue checkmarks primarily based on legitimate identity and public interest, without charging users. More context on verification across platforms can be found in articles like The Price of Verification on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter.
• TikTok grants verification selectively to popular creators who show originality and engagement.
• LinkedIn’s “Verified” badge is typically linked to employment or professional credentials rather than paid subscriptions.

By contrast, Twitter’s decision to monetize verification stands out. It is one of the few major platforms where paying guarantees a verified badge. This contrasting philosophy has stirred debate about what verification really means in a digital world and how platforms should balance access, authenticity, and revenue.

Practical Tips for Managing Your Verified Status

If you decide to pay for X Premium and receive verification, here are some pointers to maximize your experience:

• Remain active and follow Twitter’s guidelines closely. Violation of rules can strip you of your verification.
• Keep an eye on your subscription payments. Missing a monthly fee can cause you to lose your blue checkmark until you renew.
• Use the verification to support your overall online reputation, but remember it’s only a part—your content and interactions matter more.
• Stay vigilant for impersonators. Even verified accounts aren’t immune to hacking or copycat profiles, so prioritize your account security.

Is Paying for Twitter Verification Worth It?

That depends largely on your goals. For influencers, marketers, or professionals who rely on Twitter for business or brand building, the $8 monthly subscription might be a worthwhile investment. The badge can enhance your perceived credibility, help you stand out in conversations, and provide valuable tools.

For casual users or those simply curious, the benefits may be limited. The price may not be justified if you don’t consistently use the platform to engage or promote yourself.

Ultimately, the “worth” of Twitter verification is subjective and tied to how much value you place on the added status and features.

Final Thoughts on the Cost of Twitter Verification

To sum up, today’s cost to verify yourself on Twitter—or X—is connected to subscribing to the X Premium plan, which runs about $8 per month. This is a far cry from the original free verification program, reflecting a shift towards monetizing what was once a mark of public trust and identity.

The meaning of the blue checkmark has changed drastically, becoming a symbol of subscription more than status or authenticity. While this opens verification to more users, it also raises questions about trust in the platform.

If you’re considering verification, weigh the financial cost against your needs and how you want to present yourself online. Remember, the blue checkmark alone doesn’t make you influential or credible—it’s just one piece of your digital story.

As Twitter continues to evolve, stay updated by checking official sources and adapting to new developments.

This comprehensive overview covers the current pricing, process, and implications of Twitter verification. If you have more questions or want insights on managing your online presence, don’t hesitate to ask. In a fast-moving digital landscape, understanding the value and cost of verification is key to navigating social media with confidence.