When you search for a plumber, dentist, or salon online, you're trusting the listing to be genuine. But how do you know the business actually exists, operates legally, and is who they claim to be?
This is where KYC (Know Your Customer) verification comes in.
What Is KYC Verification?
KYC is a process used by banks and financial institutions for decades to verify the identity of their customers. LocalHint applies the same principle to business listings.
When a business on LocalHint applies for KYC verification, they submit:
- •A valid government-issued ID of the business owner
- •A business registration certificate or GST number
- •Proof of address for the business location
- •Contact verification (phone and email)
Our team reviews these documents and, once verified, the business receives the green "Verified" badge on their LocalHint profile.
Why It Matters
Fake listings are a real problem. Without verification, anyone can create a listing claiming to be a doctor, lawyer, or financial advisor. Customers can waste time, money, and in some cases, put their health or safety at risk.
Verified businesses offer you:
Accountability: The business has provided real identity documents. They can't disappear overnight without a trace.
Legitimacy: The business is operating with proper registration or at least has confirmed their identity.
Trust: You're dealing with someone who has invested in proving they're genuine.
The Green Badge: What It Tells You
On LocalHint, the green "Verified" badge means:
- •✓ Identity confirmed against government documents
- •✓ Business address verified
- •✓ Contact information validated
- •✓ Listed under correct business category
It does not mean:
- •That LocalHint endorses the quality of their work
- •That they have no negative reviews
- •That they are the "best" in their field
Verification confirms legitimacy, not excellence. Always read reviews too.
How to Spot a Verified Business
Look for the green "Verified" badge next to the business name on any LocalHint listing. You can also filter search results to show only verified businesses.
When choosing between two similar businesses, all else being equal, the verified one is the safer choice.
For Business Owners
Getting verified builds customer trust immediately. Many customers actively filter for verified businesses. The verification process is free for businesses listed on LocalHint and typically takes 2–5 business days after document submission.
LocalHint Team
LocalHint's editorial team covers local business discovery, technology, and entrepreneurship in India.