The days of getting verified for free on Twitter are coming to an end — and the same goes for corporate accounts that used to pay a lot of money for their verified status. A new report from The Information suggests Elon Musk and co. Introducing a new payment plan option for companies/brands who wish to retain their gold checkmarks, which were hitherto free of cost of note or value.
Another separate reporter, Matt Navara, appeared to confirm Twitter’s plans, which include charging business accounts $1,000 a month if they want to remain verified. Any accounts linked under a large corporate account will cost an additional $50/month.
They’re rolling out the Verified Names for Organizations program, and it looks like they’re now reaching out to brands to include them as soon as possible. If they refuse to pony up, they’ll lose their gold check and look like any other unverified Twitter user. It is not clear when this will take effect. It does not appear that this new subscription scheme applies to media companies, who will be at risk of fake accounts popping up and posing as them.
Twitter is reportedly emailing businesses offering gold check mark verification for $1000 PER MONTH!
And affiliate account verification for $50 each per month pic.twitter.com/hohTPKLKdi
— Matt Navarra (@MattNavarra) February 3, 2023
In contrast, it seems to be aimed more directly at corporations – like Target, Bank of America, etc. – that are in the business of selling goods and services and making a profit. It also seems like a ploy to make quick cash, which Twitter needs these days with lawsuits piling up from all ends and ongoing staff shortages.
Second source confirms same information
Twitter asking for $1000 per month for gold check mark verification pic.twitter.com/A1mXq46wDl
— Matt Navarra (@MattNavarra) February 3, 2023
Of course, this is just the latest money-making gimmick from Elon. Plus, he’s still trying to get people to sign up for Twitter Blue which is $8/month and guarantees blue checkmarks to virtual nobles, which is also worth it. Meanwhile, old legacy accounts such as magazines/other people of note have their blue checkmarks and public officials now have gray checks.
To be eligible, the account must be a subscriber to Twitter Blue Verified
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 3, 2023
Elon Musk’s Twitter needs cash — and now the mega-billionaire wants companies and brands to fork over $1,000 monthly to get verified check-marks on his social network.