If you sell products online, Georgia’s version of the INFORM Consumers Act may apply to you. This law targets online fraud and fake goods by requiring sellers to verify their identities on e-commerce platforms.
You need to know if your business is subject to these rules and what you may need to do to stay compliant.
Who counts as a “high-volume” seller?
You count as a “high-volume” third-party seller if you make 200 or more sales totaling $5,000 or more in a 12-month period on a single online platform. This includes sellers on sites like Amazon, Etsy, and eBay. Even if you’re a small operation, you might hit those numbers faster than you think.
Once you cross that line, the law requires you to verify your identity with the platform. You’ll need to provide a government-issued ID, business tax ID, and bank account information. Some of this info may also appear on your listings.
Why are platforms enforcing these rules?
Online marketplaces now must collect and verify seller details. If you don’t provide them, the platform can suspend or remove your listings. Platforms also need to let buyers report suspicious activity. That means your business info could become more visible to consumers.
Platforms must update this information regularly. If you change addresses or tax details, you’ll need to update your account. Failing to do so could disrupt your ability to sell.
How does this apply in Georgia?
Georgia businesses must comply with the federal INFORM Act, but state regulators may also investigate sellers for unfair business practices. Doctors, artists, consultants, or anyone selling online courses or physical products should review whether they qualify as high-volume sellers. Failing to comply with these rules could result in penalties or lost revenue.
What can you do now?
Take a few minutes to review your seller statistics, and if you meet the threshold, ensure your information is up to date. This law aims to protect consumers, but it also protects you from being mistaken for a fake seller.
