Today, we’re announcing a limited alpha test of verified profiles–an update placing grey checkmarks next to a username–to help individuals and businesses, who wish to do so, confirm their identities on Reddit. This feature is designed to help redditors understand who they’re engaging with in moments when verification matters, whether it’s an expert or celebrity hosting an AMA, a journalist reporting news, or a brand sharing information.
We’re kicking this off with a small, curated group of individuals– most of whom have already self-identified on Reddit– as well as businesses that currently hold an official badge.
Pseudonymity has always been a core principle of Reddit, and this remains true with verified profiles. Our approach to verification is voluntary, opt-in, and explicitly not about status. It’s designed to add clarity for redditors and ease the burden on moderators who often verify users manually. We hope this test establishes a consistent way for individuals and businesses who wish to clearly identify themselves on Reddit. Accounts that receive the verification must still follow all existing community and platform rules and policies.How verification worksFor this initial test, we’ve selected a group of public figures and trusted partners. All selected users must opt-in, have accounts in good standing, and actively contribute on Reddit. We will share more if and when we decide to expand this initial test. At this time, users cannot request to be verified.
What’s included for individuals:
A grey checkmark next to usernames across profiles, communities, feeds, post detail pages, and search results.
Access to Reddit Pro, with a visible entry point on their profiles.
What’s included for businesses:
The existing “official” watermark will be replaced with the new grey verified checkmark.
Businesses will also test profile flairs to highlight content, such as AMAs or announcements that they’ve posted on their profile, so redditors can easily find trusted information.
As the program grows, eligibility criteria may evolve, but the core principles will remain consistent. Our goal for verification is that it adds clarity, supports communities, and remains voluntary and privacy-preserving.