Beginner's Guide to ID.me
ID.me streamlines the process of verifying and sharing your identity online with different partners. The verification process varies based on the partner you are working with. Some possible uses for ID.me include:
- Obtaining federal or state benefits and services.
- Managing healthcare services through patient portals, or as a medical provider to prescribe medications.
- Taking advantage of exclusive deals and discounts offered by ID.me partners.
- Completing a background check for job placement.
ID.me's Data Protection Measures
An Overview of Identity Verification
The steps for the verification process can differ based on the entity you are being verified for, but the general process is as follows:
- Locate the Partner: Start by visiting the website of the partner you need to verify with, and select the option to "Verify with ID.me". A list of ID.me partners can be found at the Identity Verification page.
- Create ID.me Account: Using your email address, create a password and confirm your email address to set up your ID.me account. Please note that you are only allowed to have one verified account. For more information, visit the "Can I have more than one ID.me account?" page.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring an additional step during sign-in. Although not all organizations require this, it is always recommended to enable MFA to protect your account. For further information, see the "Getting started with MFA" page. It is advisable to add at least two multi-factor authentication (MFA) methods to guarantee seamless access to your ID.me account.
- Provide Verification Details: To confirm your identity, you may need to submit a photo and personal information either by taking a picture or uploading one.
What will be Required for Verification
As part of the verification process, you will need to set up an ID.me account and furnish the required information, as specified by the partner you're verifying for. The information required can vary and may include:
- Contact information such as your mailing address, city, state, ZIP code, and phone number
- Your Social Security number
- A Selfie or Video Selfie
- Primary or Secondary Identity Documentation
Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with ID.me's Biometric Data Privacy Policy.
ID.me Verification Techniques
- Self-service: This is a self-directed process in which you will provide the required information and documentation. It is the most frequently used and quickest method of verification among members.
- Video call: During the video call, you'll enter your information, upload the necessary documents, and take a selfie if required. After your documents have been reviewed and approved, you'll work with a Video Chat Agent to complete the verification process.
- In-person verification: ID.me collaborates with selected states to offer in-person verification at designated Identity Network Locations. To learn more, please visit In-person Verification and ID.me.
Assistance with Verifying Your Identity
If you encounter any difficulties while verifying your identity, you can:
- Seek assistance from a friend or family member while using the self-service verification method.
- Request support from someone while participating in a video call with a Video Chat Agent.
Please note that ID.me cannot verify the identity of individuals who are deceased. As such, it is not possible to verify on behalf of another person using either self-service or a video call. The individual being verified must appear in the video themselves.
Starting the Verification Process
To learn the steps for verifying your identity for a specific ID.me partner, please visit the Identity Verification page.
If you would like to verify your membership in a particular community, such as nurses, teachers, military, etc., please visit the Community Verification page. By verifying your membership in a specific community, you will be able to take advantage of discounts on the ID.me Shop.
