KYC stands for Know Your Customer. KYC verification is the process a platform uses to confirm you are a real person and that you are who you say you are, usually by checking a government ID. Banks, fintech apps and earning platforms in Nigeria all use it before they move money.
Why platforms that pay you ask for KYC
- To stop fake accounts. Without ID checks, one person can open many accounts and take tasks meant for others.
- To protect payouts. KYC makes sure money goes to the real account owner, not someone who stole a password.
- To keep businesses confident. Businesses pay more willingly when they know the workers are real people.
- To meet financial rules. Moving money responsibly means knowing who is receiving it.
Which documents are accepted
On Microtask, you can verify with one of:
- International passport
- National ID card
- Driver's licence
- Voter's card
Make sure the document is valid, not expired, and that the name matches the bank account you will withdraw to.
How to pass KYC the first time
- Use good light. Photograph your ID near a window, with no glare on the card.
- Show all four corners of the document.
- Keep it sharp. Every word and number should be readable.
- Use your real details. Your account name should match the name on your ID.
If your check is not approved, you will see the reason. The most common ones are a blurry photo or a cut-off edge. Fix it and submit again.
How to keep your ID information safe
- Only upload ID through the platform's own verification page, on its real website or app.
- Never send ID photos to anyone on WhatsApp, Telegram or social media, even if they claim to be support.
- Check that the platform has a privacy policy explaining how your data is used.
- Never share your BVN PIN, ATM PIN or one-time passwords. KYC never needs these.
How the check works behind the scenes
- You choose your ID type and upload clear photos of it.
- The details are checked for readability and validity.
- Your name on the ID is compared with your account name.
- You get a result: approved, or a reason to fix and resubmit.
Common reasons KYC is not approved
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Blurry photo | Hold steady, tap to focus, use daylight |
| Glare on the card | Tilt the card slightly away from the light |
| Edges cut off | Move back until all four corners show |
| Expired ID | Use a valid document |
| Name mismatch | Make sure your account name matches your ID |
KYC myths
- "KYC means the platform is a scam." The opposite: platforms that move money responsibly need to know who they pay.
- "I need to give my BVN PIN." No. KYC never needs a PIN or one-time password.
- "I have to do it every time." No. It is a one-time check.
What KYC unlocks on Microtask
Verifying your ID is a one-time step. Once you are verified you can withdraw your earnings, host your own tasks, and appear as a verified person to businesses looking to hire through Direct Hire. It also counts toward your account's security level. Read how to withdraw your earnings and how to secure your account.