Completing Stripe's ID verification

Troubleshoot common errors related to uploading your ID document (passport/driver's license)

To accept payments on Zeffy, you must complete an identity verification process. This process requires you to provide personal information, including:

  • The last four digits of your Social Security Number (SSN)
  • A photo of your government-issued ID
  • A selfie for comparison with the ID

This verification can be done by any legal representative, such as a board member, authorized signatory on your bank account, or treasurer.

For more information about why Stripe requests this information, we invite you to refer to their FAQ.

➡️ Step-by-step tutorial to completing the ID verification

Please ensure the following criteria are met:

  • The ID is a valid government-issued photo ID document. 
  • The information on the ID corresponds exactly with the information provided for the Zeffy account representative and owner.
  • The ID must not be redacted, altered, or damaged.

If the ID is not being accepted, here are some tips:

  • Capture a clear image. Make sure that the images are not too dark or bright, and don't have a glare. Hold steady and allow your camera to focus to avoid blurry photos.
  • Take a live photo of the ID with your mobile device instead of uploading a scan. Live photos return a higher success rate.
  • Capture the ID against a dark background. Light, colourful or patterned backgrounds will make it difficult for the system to capture the ID. 
  • Do not block any part of your ID document in the image. Ideally you can lay it flat to take the photo.
  • Find a location with ambient lighting. Avoid spaces with strong overhead lights that cast a shadow on your ID document. Avoid sitting directly in front of a bright light which can cast a shadow over or add a glare to your ID document.
  • Make sure the information entered perfectly matches your ID. You must include any and all middle names as listed on your ID for it to be accepted.  
  • ❗If you are uploading an image file of your ID it must be in png. or jpg. format

💡Pro-tip: Cameras on mobile devices often take higher quality photos than webcams, which helps with legibility. 

If you are experiencing issues with capturing your selfie, please make sure the following guidelines are respected: 

  • Make sure you give your device permission to access your camera/webcam
  • Do not block any part of your face. Remove sunglasses, masks, or other accessories. Make sure your finger is not partially blocking your camera lens. 
  • Find a location with ambient lighting. Avoid spaces with strong overhead lights that cast a shadow on your face or ID document. Avoid sitting directly in front of a bright light that can wash out your face.

If all of the above are respected and your issue with the ID or selfie verification persists, try the following:

  • Log out of your Zeffy account 
  • Clear your browser cache
  • Use a different browser (The most compatible browser is Chrome. If you're having an issue due to your browser, try Chrome and remove any browser extensions.)
  • Try to upload your photo again

Looking for help related to your EIN? Consult our FAQ.

Wondering if you can use Zeffy? Consult our guidelines