Hello Sellers,

If you're registering as a sole trader and your verification documents keep bouncing back, you're not alone. The good news: most rejections come down to a handful of fixable issues. Here are the top tips to get verified first time.

1. Match your details exactly Your name and date of birth must match across every document and your Seller Central account, character for character. A shortened first name, a missing middle name, or a maiden name on one document and a married name on another is enough to trigger a rejection. Check that your account details mirror your official ID before you submit.

2. Use a valid, government-issued photo ID Submit a current passport, driving licence, or national identity card. Make sure it hasn't expired, that the photo and details are clearly visible, and that you upload the correct side. Expired or unreadable IDs are one of the most common reasons for a failed check.

3. Keep your supporting documents recent and legible For proof of address and bank or card statements, use a document dated within the last 90 days. Upload the full page so your name, address, and date are all visible. Avoid cropping, glare, or dark photos. A clear scan or a well-lit photo on a flat surface works best.

4. Keep your name consistent across documents Your name should read the same way on your ID, your proof of address, and your bank statement. Mismatches between documents are a frequent cause of rejection, so take a moment to confirm they align before uploading.

5. Upload directly in Seller Central Always submit your documents through the verification page in your Seller Central account. Documents sent by email aren't accepted for security reasons, and sending them elsewhere will only delay your verification. You can review your status and any outstanding requests in Settings, under Account Info.

6. Submit the right file format Use a clear PDF, JPEG, or PNG. Password-protected files, screenshots of screens, and photos of a photo tend to fail, so upload the original document whenever possible. For step-by-step guidance, visit the Seller Central Help Hub.

A quick pre-submission checklist:

✅ Name and date of birth match your account exactly

✅ ID is current and clearly readable

✅ Supporting documents are dated within 90 days

✅ Full document is visible, with no cropping or glare

✅ Uploaded directly through Seller Central

Getting these details right the first time saves you days of back and forth and gets your store open sooner.

Over to you: What verification hurdle has tripped you up as a sole trader, and how did you resolve it? Share your experience below so we can help other sellers get verified faster. 👇