Frequently asked questions
What verification means, how it works, and what it does not claim.
What is VERITA?
VERITA helps people know who they are doing business with. We independently verify businesses and publish a public verification record that anyone can check before buying, paying, or doing business. Businesses that meet VERITA's verification requirements receive a VERITA Verified status.
What does VERITA Verified mean?
A VERITA Verified status means VERITA has independently checked the information applicable to that business using the evidence available at the time of verification. Depending on the business, this may include identity, business activity, contact information, location, business registration where applicable, references, and other relevant checks. VERITA Verified shows that a business has successfully completed VERITA's independent verification process. It does not guarantee future conduct, product quality, or the outcome of any transaction. Always make your own decision. VERITA helps you make a more informed one.
How do I find a business on VERITA?
Search by business name, VERITA ID, or phone number. The VERITA ID is the reference a verified business can print on a receipt or show on its site, and it resolves to exactly one record. You can also browse the register by country, or by category — from online sellers and market sellers to mechanics, pharmacies, schools, and njangi groups. Reading a record is free and needs no account. If a business is not listed, that is not evidence of wrongdoing. Most businesses have simply never applied.
Does my business need to be registered to be verified?
Not always. Registration is checked where it applies: if a business presents itself as legally registered, we verify those details against the relevant official register, and a claim we cannot confirm will not be published. Many businesses on this register trade without one — market sellers, bike riders, tailors, njangi groups. They are verified on the checks that do apply to them: who is behind the business, that it is genuinely operating, and that it can be reached.
How long does verification take?
Most applications are reviewed within 14 days after we receive all the required information. If we need additional information or documents, we'll let you know so your application can continue without unnecessary delays. Every application is reviewed by a trained VERITA reviewer — not by an automated system.
Can verification be revoked?
Yes. A verification can be suspended or withdrawn if false or forged information was submitted, if fraudulent conduct is discovered, if a registration we relied on lapses or is cancelled, if the business stops trading, if material information was concealed, or if continued verification would mislead the public. Withdrawing a badge from a trading business needs the agreement of two reviewers, and the reason is recorded. Where appropriate, the business is told before a final decision is made, and may appeal. Verification also expires twelve months after it is granted. A badge with no expiry is a sticker.
How much does verification cost?
Verification is earned through evidence — not purchased. Paying does not buy a badge, and no fee changes the outcome of a review. Pricing has not been published yet. It will appear here once confirmed.