Step-by-Step Guide to Selling on Amazon in 2025: Documents You Must Have
Amazon provides an excellent platform for sellers. However, getting started is not as simple as signing up and listing things. The organization takes security seriously and conducts stringent investigations before certifying any supplier. A minor error, such as a missing document or an incorrect detail, can put your registration on hold.
Before you get started, double-check your documents. Having everything ready can help you save time and avoid unnecessary delays. Let’s go over what you need and how to get it correctly the first time.
Proof of Business & Identity
Amazon does not allow just anyone to sell. It verifies sellers to keep buyers safe from fraud. If you are enrolling as a person, you will need to provide a government-issued ID. In India, that entails both a PAN card and an Aadhaar card. Other countries accept a national ID or passport. Businesses require a registration certificate and GST information (if applicable).
Details must be consistent across documents. Even slight inconsistencies, such as multiple spellings of your name, can cause problems. Before submitting, double-check that everything is in perfect alignment. A little work now can save you a lot of frustration later.
Bank Account Details
Amazon is not integrated with cash or third-party payment apps. It transfers earnings immediately to your bank account, which indicates that you must have a valid account that accepts both domestic and foreign payments.
If you’re selling within your country, a conventional savings or current account would suffice. If you intend to sell worldwide, you’ll need an account that can process foreign transactions. Amazon will verify these details, and if anything does not match, your refund may be delayed.
A company account is often used to record revenue and manage taxes. Furthermore, if you are expanding worldwide, selecting a bank with cheap transfer costs will help you save money.
Tax Compliance & GST
Tax details are crucial. Amazon must guarantee that merchants comply with tax regulations. In India, most retailers are required to obtain a GSTIN. Certain categories are exempt; however, obtaining a GSTIN facilitates transactions.
Sellers in the EU and UK are required to have a VAT (Value Added Tax) identification number. US sellers must complete either a W-9 form (for US-based enterprises) or a W-8BEN form (for non-US suppliers). These factors determine your tax status and whether or not taxes are deducted from your incentives.
Getting this properly from the beginning avoids issues such as payment holds and account suspensions. If you are unsure about tax rules, consult an expert. It is more convenient than paying fines afterward.
Address Verification & Identity Proof
Amazon guarantees that every vendor is legitimate. That entails checking your identity and address prior to approval. You will require a government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, driver’s license, or Aadhaar card (for Indian vendors).
Amazon asks for a recent power bill or bank statement to verify the residence. The address must match the one listed in your seller profile. If they do not match, your application may be refused.
Please double-check everything before submitting. It’s a simple step that will save you days of back-and-forth revisions.
Product-Specific Certifications
Not all products are available for sale without restrictions. Some categories require further permissions or safety certifications. If your product comes under a regulated category, you must have the proper documentation before listing it.
In India, for example, electronics, toys, and certain commodities must be certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Food and beverages require an FSSAI license (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India). In the United States, dietary supplements, cosmetics, and specific health products may require FDA approval.
Skipping these certificates may result in listing deletion or account suspension. To avoid problems, verify the limits before you begin.
Trademark & Brand Protection (Optional but Smart)
A trademark is not required to sell on Amazon, but it is a good idea if you take your business seriously. A registered trademark safeguards your brand against imitation and counterfeiting. Without it, anyone could sell under your identity.
Once you have a trademark, you can join the Amazon Brand Registry. This package provides additional protection and access to specialized services such as A+ Content, Brand Analytics, and counterfeit reporting tools. Many vendors miss this step and later come to regret it. If you want complete control over your brand, consider registering a trademark.
Supplier Documentation (For Private Label & Wholesale Sellers)
If you wish to sell branded, private-label, or wholesale products on Amazon, you may be required to produce proof of authenticity for the items you want to sell. They want to make sure your products are legitimate and come from reputable vendors.
Invoices from authorized vendors are required. They should clearly display the supplier’s name, contact information, and the quantity of your order. Amazon may also request supplier agreements to verify your company relationship. If you fail to submit adequate documentation, your listings may be removed.
Selling on Amazon is a great opportunity, but missing documentation might cause costly delays. Staying organized and following Amazon’s guidelines promotes a smooth and profitable selling experience.
