Ticketmaster’s verified fan program has become an increasingly popular way for artists to distribute tickets to their most loyal supporters. The program requires fans to register ahead of an on-sale for a chance to receive a unique code that gives them access to purchase tickets. This helps prevent scalpers and bots from buying up all the tickets and reselling them at inflated prices. But what if you’re an enthusiastic fan who simply missed the registration period to become a verified fan? Is there still a way to get tickets?
What is Ticketmaster Verified Fan?
Ticketmaster Verified Fan is a program where fans can register for a chance to purchase tickets to concerts and events ahead of the general public on-sale. Artists and event organizers work with Ticketmaster to operate these presales for their most devoted supporters. Fans are required to register with their Ticketmaster account information during a set registration period, usually 1-2 weeks before the presale date. Ticketmaster then reviews the registrations looking for patterns of suspicious activity that would indicate scalpers or bots. Fans deemed to be genuine are verified and emailed a unique code that will allow them access to the presale.
The goal is to get more tickets directly into the hands of true fans rather than third-party resellers. It rewards loyal supporters who arrive early and engage frequently with the artist. It also limits the ability of scalpers to gobble up large quantities of tickets using bots, which they will immediately list at inflated prices on secondary market sites.
Some benefits of being a Ticketmaster Verified Fan include:
- Early access to purchase tickets before the general public
- Typically more ticket availability for Verified Fans
- Usually a ticket limit, preventing bulk purchases by scalpers
- Chance to get better seat locations
Artists such as Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen, and Harry Styles have utilized Verified Fan presales to ensure their biggest supporters have fair access to tickets.
What if you missed the Verified Fan registration period?
If you failed to register as a Verified Fan during the specified timeframe, unfortunately you will not be able to participate in that program’s presale. However, there are still a few options to try to get tickets:
Wait for the public on-sale
While supplies last, tickets will go on sale to the general public following the Verified Fan presale. This public on-sale usually happens 1-3 days after the presale. There will likely be fewer tickets available and greater competition trying to purchase them. But it’s still possible to get tickets if you’re logged in ahead of time, act right at the on-sale time, and are diligent about trying.
Check for ticket releases later
In the days and weeks leading up to the event, it’s common for the event organizer to release additional ticket inventory. This could be production holds getting released, upgrades being declined, or changes in venue setup opening up more seats. Check back periodically to see if any new seats open up.
Try alternate presales
Besides the Verified Fan presale, there may be other presales going on for select groups like VIP packages, fan club members, credit card holders, mobile app users, and more. Check the event page ahead of time to look for other presale opportunities you may qualify for.
Head to the box office
While most tickets these days are sold online in advance, the event’s box office will hold back some tickets to sell onsite leading up to show date. This gives locals and traveling fans a chance to stop by the venue and purchase tickets directly. Inventory is usually limited, so don’t count on scoring amazing seats. But it’s possible to get your foot in the door this way.
Partner with existing Verified Fans
If you know someone who was approved as a Verified Fan, they can purchase a ticket for you during the presale. Most presales have ticket limits preventing mass purchases, so a friend likely can only buy 1 or 2 extra seats. But it’s an option if you want to attend together.
Use caution buying tickets from secondary market sites
Desperate fans who missed out may turn to secondary ticket sites like StubHub, Vivid Seats, SeatGeek, etc. to find tickets being resold. There is a chance to find legit tickets on these platforms, but also increased risk of fraud and massively inflated prices. Buyer beware and use caution if going this route.
Some tips include:
- Sort by lowest price first instead of best seats – deals can be found if you’re not picky about location
- Read seller reviews and ratings – look for reputable sellers with positive feedback
- Check prices against face value – make sure the markup isn’t too unreasonable
- Buy earlier rather than later – prices tend to go up closer to event date
- Pay with a credit card – better fraud protection if you need to dispute
How to prepare as a Verified Fan
For high demand tours, it’s likely you’ll encounter more Verified Fan opportunities. Here are some tips to make sure you are ready next time around:
Create/update your Ticketmaster account
Having an existing Ticketmaster account speeds up the Verified Fan registration process. Make sure to set one up in advance or double check your info is current. Add payment options, verify your email, enable notifications, etc. The more complete your profile, the better.
Link your social accounts
Linking accounts like Facebook, Twitter, and Spotify to your Ticketmaster account helps prove you are a genuine fan, not a bot or scalper. It allows Ticketmaster to cross-reference your engagement with the artist.
Follow the artist closely
Interact frequently with the artist’s social media pages, music, and updates. Go see them live when possible. Ticketmaster examines your fan activity timeline to identify qualified supporters. Being an active, recognizable fan improves your chances.
Sign up for fan clubs and newsletters
Super fans join fan clubs, follow artists on apps like Weverse or Hive, and subscribe to email lists. Seek out ways to connect directly with the artist and demonstrate your dedication.
Register as early as possible
Once presale registration opens, sign up right away. Don’t wait until the last minute. Quantities may be limited so registering immediately secures your place in line.
Use your Ticketmaster email address
When registering, the email address associated with your Ticketmaster account should be used. This links your existing activity and purchase history to your Verified Fan submission.
Only request what you actually need
Ticketmaster asks how many tickets you are hoping to buy. Only request the exact number you will realistically need rather than inflating the quantity. This avoids accidentally getting approved for more than you can actually purchase.
Invite friends who are also fans
You can boost your chances by inviting other fans to register for Verified Fan as well. The more friends you bring along, the larger your collective fanbase appears.
Conclusion
Missing the ticket registration period is disappointing for enthusiastic fans eager to see their favorite artist live. While nothing substitutes for the perks of being a Verified Fan, there are still opportunities to score seats leading up to the event. Persistence, flexibility, and good timing will be key. When possible, be proactive about registering as a Verified Fan to ensure you don’t miss out again. Do your homework ahead of time to maximize your qualifications. While not guaranteed, this will provide the greatest chance to get the tickets you want and have an amazing concert experience.
