Related accounts are when an Amazon seller either has or is falsely accused of having more than one Amazon account without Amazon’s blessing.
It is not recommended that anyone have more than one Amazon account.
If you do choose to have multiple accounts, there are some things you can do to help avoid getting caught:
– If the products are in different categories, ask for Amazon’s consent to have more than one account. If they allow it, all is good; if you get denied, then you’re back where you started. It never hurts to try to get Amazon’s approval.
– Use separate systems: This includes computers, networks, log-ins, and web browsers. They must all be unique. NEVER use computer A to sign into account B. A seller operating multiple accounts should make sure that each account is managed as a completely separate and different business. This includes, but is not limited to, the name of the individual who operates the account, the address associated, storage facility, and bank account information. It is extremely important to keep all of this information separate to ensure that the accounts do not get linked. You should also be sure to use different IP or MAC addresses. Everything must be kept separate.
– Train your employees: Everyone involved in your Amazon businesses must understand the necessity to keep things separate, including your employees. If an employee logs onto your account from their cell phone, that phone is now linked to your WiFi even though the computer you provided has a VPN that separates the two accounts. No one should ever log into accounts from a cell phone or home computer.
– Sell different products: If you are selling the same exact item on both accounts (same ASINs), it will draw suspicion. Ideally, if you are going to have multiple accounts, they should each sell separate products in completely independent categories.
– Use a different bank: Be sure to use completely different banks for each business. For example, Citibank for account A and Chase for account B. The accounts should have different names and home addresses. The email addresses should also be completely different with no similarities.
– Use a different website and web host: Each account must be maintained as a separate business entity.
– Keep shareholders private: Different states have different levels of shareholder privacy.
KEEP IN MIND: There are no guarantees that you will not get caught with multiple accounts.
The information provided only shows some of the ways that Amazon can link your accounts – there are many others. An Amazon seller should always proceed with caution when having multiple accounts. Your best bet will always be to try to get Amazon’s approval.