How To Avoid Adsense Identity And Address Verification Issues In Nigeria (2025): Common Mistakes & Solutions

Getting approved for Google AdSense is one thing. But the real challenge for many Nigerian creators and bloggers comes after—the identity and address verification process.

If you’ve ever been stuck on “verify your identity” or “verify your address (PIN)” without success, you’re not alone. These steps are mandatory to unlock payments, and failure to complete them correctly can put your account on hold or even lead to termination.

In this 2025 guide, you’ll learn how to avoid AdSense identity and address verification issues in Nigeria, plus how to fix common mistakes if you’ve already made them.

Why Identity and Address Verification Matters

Google requires all AdSense users to verify:

1. Identity (with a valid government-issued ID)

2. Residential Address (via a PIN code sent to your physical location)

These steps:

• Prevent fraud

• Ensure payments are made to real, verified users

• Comply with tax and legal requirements globally

Common Identity Verification Issues (and How to Fix Them)

1. Name Mismatch

If the name on your ID doesn't match the name on your AdSense account, your verification will be rejected.

Solution:
✔ Ensure your full legal name on AdSense matches your ID card exactly (surname, first name, middle name).
✔ If it doesn't, go to Payments > Settings and update it before uploading your document.

2. Blurry or Cropped Document

Google needs a clear image of your ID. A blurry photo or scanned document with cut-off edges will be declined.

Solution:
✔ Take a clear, full shot of your ID (entire front) using a phone in good lighting
✔ Do not crop or edit the image
✔ Save in JPG, PNG, or PDF format

3. Expired ID

Submitting a national ID or passport that has expired will automatically trigger rejection.

Solution:
✔ Only submit a valid, non-expired document
✔ Recommended: International Passport, Driver’s License, or the NIN Slip/Card

4. Uploading the Wrong Document Type

Google only accepts government-issued photo IDs.

Do NOT submit:

• Student IDs

• Company IDs

• Laminated photocopies

Solution:
✔ Use:

• International Passport

• NIN Slip or Card

• Driver’s License

• Voter’s Card (less preferred)

Common Address Verification (PIN) Issues

Once you reach $10 in AdSense earnings, Google will mail a 6-digit verification PIN to your address.

Here’s where Nigerian publishers often get stuck:

1. Wrong or Incomplete Address

If your street address, LGA, or postal code is wrong or missing, you may never receive your PIN.

Solution:
✔ Use your complete residential address, not a P.O. Box
✔ Include your house number, street name, community, LGA, state, and accurate postal code
✔ Cross-check Nigeria's correct postal codes per location

2. Delays in PIN Delivery

In Nigeria, it can take 2–6 weeks for the PIN letter to arrive. Some locations never receive it.

Solution:
✔ Wait up to 4 weeks, then request a resend
✔ You’re allowed up to 3 PIN requests
✔ If none arrive, you’ll be offered a manual address verification

3. Missing Manual Verification Option

If you fail all 3 PIN attempts and the manual upload doesn’t show up, your account may be stuck.

Solution:
✔ Continue logging in and checking the dashboard
✔ Once eligible, Google will prompt you to upload a valid ID with your address

4. Fake Address or Using Cyber Café Details

Some users enter fake or business addresses (e.g., cyber cafés) that don’t match their ID or can’t receive mail.

Solution:
✔ Use a real, personal, reachable address
✔ Make sure the name and address match your ID to qualify for manual review

Summary Table: Mistakes vs. Solutions

FAQs About AdSense Verification in Nigeria

Q1: Can I use my NIN slip to verify identity?

Yes. A clear NIN slip (with photo) is acceptable, especially if the name matches your AdSense account.

Q2: How long does identity verification take?

Usually within 24–72 hours after submission.

Q3: What happens if I can’t verify my address?

Your ads will stop showing and your account may be paused. After 3 failed attempts, you’ll get a manual upload option.

Q4: Can I change my address after AdSense sends the PIN?

No. Wait for the PIN to expire and then change the address before requesting a new one.

Q5: Can I use someone else’s ID?

No. Always use your own government-issued ID and real details to avoid permanent suspension.

Tips for a Smooth Verification Process

• Use your real, full name on AdSense

• Submit only valid government IDs

• Use a complete Nigerian address where you can receive mail

• Wait patiently (2–6 weeks) for PIN delivery

• Always check your AdSense dashboard for updates

Conclusion

Verifying your AdSense identity and address may seem hard in Nigeria, but with the right steps and correct information, it's 100% doable. Stay honest, follow Google’s instructions, and your account will be safe and ready to receive payments in no time.