Apple is asking for my 'trader status'. What does that mean?
In March 2024, Apple began emailing Developer Account holders asking for them to verify their "trader status" to remain compliant with the EU Digital Services Act.
Under the DSA, any traders distributing apps within the EU are required to display an address, phone number and email address on their App Store product pages.
If you do not submit the required information to Apple, it may remove your apps from sale in certain regions.
How can I provide the information Apple requires?
Once you have received an email from Apple asking for your "trader status", click the App Store Connect link and log in to your Apple Developer Account.
Once logged in, you should see a yellow banner at the top of the screen, prompting you to provide the required information.
A yellow banner at the top of App Store Connect informs you new compliance information is required
Eventually, you'll be taken to the Business page of App Store Connect, where you'll see a grey banner asking you to "Complete Compliance Requirements". Click that link and a pop-up window appears:
Trader or no trader?: The DSA compliance window asks you to choose how you are using the App Store
Once you have chosen your trader status, you will be asked to confirm the contact details to be displayed on your App Store product page.
Am I a 'trader' or 'non-trader'?
The Digital Services Act states anyone distributing apps as part of their "trade, business, craft or profession" is considered a trader.
Bear in mind that even if your app is being distributed for free, if you are making money from it through ads (in-app or in-stream commercials), it may be considered professionally run or part of a business.
If you are unsure which option applies in your case, you will need to seek your own legal advice as the declaration is between you and Apple, rather than Aiir.
What information will be displayed?
If you are enrolled in the Apple Developer Program as an organisation, the address associated with your DUNS number will be shown automatically, and you will also need to provide a phone number and email address where users can contact you.
If your developer account is registered as an individual, you will need to provide an address or PO box, phone number and email address which will be publicly displayed.
Regardless of your account type, you will also be asked to provide payment account details. These will not be displayed publicly but may be used to verify your public information.
You can find more information on the new requirements at Apple.com.