Wise accounts used for Facebook advertising sometimes trigger verification requests. This happens when the platform detects unusual activity, large transactions, or simply as part of routine security checks. The timing is unpredictable—it can occur days after purchase or weeks later. When it happens, you have a limited window to respond.
What Wise Asks For
A verification check typically requires one or more of the following:
- Photo ID – Passport, driver's license, or national ID card
- Proof of address – Utility bill, bank statement, or official document showing your name and current address
- Source of funds – Explanation of where the money comes from, sometimes with supporting documents
- Business information – If the account is registered as a business, Wise may ask for registration details or tax ID
The platform may ask for all of these or just one. The request appears in your Wise account dashboard with a deadline—usually 10–14 days to submit.
Why This Matters for Arbitrage
If your Wise account fails verification or you don't respond in time, the account gets frozen. You lose access to funds and cannot make transfers. If the account is linked to a Facebook ad account, your campaigns stop. For arbitrageurs running multiple campaigns, this means lost revenue and missed windows.
Verification checks are more common with Wise accounts because the platform monitors cross-border transfers and unusual spending patterns. Ad accounts that suddenly move large sums trigger flags.
How to Handle a Check
Respond immediately. Don't wait. The moment you see the verification request, start gathering documents. Delays increase the risk of account suspension.
Provide clear, matching information. All documents must show the same name and address. If your ID shows one address and your utility bill shows another, Wise will reject it and ask again. Use current documents—outdated proof of address often gets declined.
Upload high-quality images. Photos must be clear, well-lit, and fully legible. Blurry or partially cut-off documents are rejected. Use a scanner or take photos against a plain background.
Explain your activity honestly. If asked about source of funds, don't be vague. "Business income from digital marketing" is better than "various sources." Wise has seen every story—they're looking for consistency and transparency, not perfection.
Use the same device and location. If possible, complete verification from the same device and location where you normally access the account. This reduces flags.
What Not to Do
Don't ignore the request. The account will freeze automatically if the deadline passes.
Don't submit fake or borrowed documents. Wise runs automated checks against government databases. False documents get caught, and the account is permanently closed.
Don't create multiple Wise accounts to bypass checks. If one account is under review, opening another with similar details will trigger cross-linking flags and both accounts may be suspended.
Don't change your registered name or address during verification. Wait until the check is complete.
After Verification Passes
Once approved, Wise removes the restriction and your account returns to normal. Transfers resume, and funds are accessible. Keep your account active and avoid large unusual transactions for a while—another check could follow if spending patterns change dramatically.
For arbitrageurs managing Wise accounts, verification is a routine friction point, not a crisis. The key is speed and accuracy in response. If you're buying multiple Wise accounts for campaigns, factor in the possibility that one or two may hit checks during your first weeks of use.