How to change your Apple Developer account from individual to organization
Often, App Developer account levels can become a logistical headache for developer teams working in larger businesses.
Enter this guide: It provides direct, essential steps for changing your Apple Developer account from individual to organizational access.
Key takeaways
- Account transition from individual to organization within the Apple Developer Program requires recognition as a legal entity.
- Organizations must obtain a D-U-N-S Number as proof of identity and legal status, a prerequisite for entity verification in the Apple Developer Program enrollment.
- The conversion process does require preparing and submitting some necessary documents and paying some fees,
- Managing developer accounts involves assigning legal authority; i.e., assigning one person the legal authority to enter into contracts with Apple; and regular administrative updates.
Evaluating your enrollment type: Individual vs. organization
An organization Apple Developer account is a professional representation of your business identity and makes collaboration easier across your development team
Individual accounts provide access to Apple's development tools but come with limitations such as App ID restrictions and frequent app re-provisioning for device testing.
If scaling up is in your plans, then definitely consider the benefits of an organization account: improved brand representation and compliance with Apple App Store guidelines for various apps, including iOS webview apps.
What is a D-U-N-S Number and how do I get one?
The D-U-N-S Number is a nine-digit identifier (a.k.a. “A data universal numbering system”). The D-U-N-S Number is key to proving your company’s legitimacy and legal entity status for the Apple Developer Program enrollment.
How does one get a D-U-N-S Number? Well, your business must be an established corporation, a limited partnership, or a limited liability company to get this number.
What does a D-U-N-S Number cost?
You can apply for a D-U-N-S Number at no cost. When you’re ready to apply, make sure to meet these three criteria below:
- Must have a valid “legal entity” status — i.e., be a legitimate organization to open an organization account
- Have a public website for your organization that you own — ensuring a professional online presence
- Assign one person in your organization the legal authority to make decisions in behalf of the organization
Meeting these three criterias will ensure a D-U-N-S Number — saving your organization the time and complications associated with rejections.
How do you convert an individual app developer account into an organization account?
Transitioning from an individual to an organization account is as easy as 1-2-3 — follow the steps below for a smooth transition:
- Register your organization, such as ‘ABC Company’, as a legal entity to qualify for an organization account.
- Update your developer account to a corporate email address, marking a crucial step in the transition process.
- A high-ranking official from your organization must reach out to Apple Developer Program Support with your organization’s details and intent to upgrade the account.
- Secure a domain name that represents your organization’s online presence.
- Ensure your business is listed with a D-U-N-S Number, which is a critical step in the transition to an organization account on the App Store.
A step-by-step guide to the conversion process
To ensure a seamless upgrade from an individual to an organization Apple Developer account, follow these steps:
- Visit the Apple Developer Program Support page and fill out the 'Contact Us' form with a clear subject line and detailed description of your company's objectives.
- Keep your organization’s documents accessible on your mobile device for the upcoming audit call from Apple, which is part of their verification process.
- Respond promptly to any emails from Apple that request additional organization information to finalize your developer account transition.
During the waiting period, dedicate time to refining your app monetization strategy and assessing app development costs.
This preparation is vital for showcasing your organization’s readiness to engage with the iOS market share and succeed in Apple's platform.
iOS app developer membership fees: What to expect
Entering the Apple Developer ecosystem requires an annual membership fee. Here’s what you need to know about Apple’s membership fees:
- Both individual and organization accounts are charged an annual fee of $99 USD.
- Opting for the Apple Developer Enterprise Program incurs a fee of $299 USD per year.
- Fees are typically charged in your local currency and billed to the credit card on file.
- The membership renews automatically each year, but you can cancel at any time to avoid subsequent charges.
- Local taxes may apply to these fees unless you're eligible for tax-exempt status. In that case, provide Apple with the necessary tax exemption documentation for a potential refund.
When budgeting for your organization, include these membership fees, as they provide access to Apple's global platform, enabling you to present your software to a vast audience.
It's important to manage these expenses wisely to maintain your organization's financial well-being while taking advantage of the opportunities offered by the Apple Developer Program membership.
Managing your Developer and App Store Connect accounts
Carefully align your financial planning with Apple's privacy policy requirements.
Make sure that each device used for development — including devices compatible with hybrid app and webview app development — is registered within the limit of 100 devices per category.
Once a device is removed from your account, it cannot be added again until the next enrollment year — which is why, understanding and following Apple's strict guidelines is key,
Maintain up-to-date and precise information across your developer account and App Store Connect to reflect your brand.
App Store Connect is your operational hub for managing app submissions, sales, and compliance with legal agreements — this is crucial for the successful launch of your apps in the global market.
Navigating legal agreements and authority
The person holding legal authority within your organization is responsible for managing the Apple Developer account. This role is critical and requires attention to detail. Responsibilities include:
- Vigilantly overseeing the Apple Developer account.
- Ensuring adherence to legal terms, licensing agreements, and program guidelines
- Facilitating the transfer of the Account Holder role when leadership changes occur
As the primary legal contact, this individual must:
- Maintain compliance with Apple's requirements.
- Keep the organization’s official address and records up-to-date.
- Protect the digital standing of the venture within the Apple Developer ecosystem.
Summary
Transitioning from an individual to an organization Apple Developer account requires obtaining a D-U-N-S Number, understanding membership fees, and managing account logistics.
Developers upgrading their App Store presence benefit from an enhanced professional brand and expanded operational capabilities.
Preparation and comprehension of the legal and financial requirements are crucial for managing an organization's presence within the Apple Developer ecosystem.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main differences between an individual and an organization Apple Developer account?
The main differences between an individual and an organization Apple Developer account are that the individual account type is linked to a personal name and has limitations on app distribution and testing, while the organization account operates under a legal entity name, requires a D-U-N-S Number, and offers broader app management capabilities.
Why is a D-U-N-S Number important for an organization account?
To establish credibility and confirm the legal entity status within initiatives such as the Apple Developer Program, an organization account requires a D-U-N-S Number to authenticate its identity.
Can I transfer my individual developer account to someone else when transitioning to an organization account?
Certainly, during the transition process to better suit your organization’s requirements, it is possible to change the ownership of the developer account over to a business email.
Are there different membership fees for individual and organization accounts?
Indeed, the yearly subscription cost for an Apple Developer membership is $99 USD regardless of whether one registers as an individual or as part of an organization. Organizations have the alternative to join the Apple Developer Enterprise Program for a higher fee of $299 USD annually.
The pricing can differ depending on the region and may be influenced by local tax regulations.
How can I manage subsidiaries within my organization's Apple Developer account?
To manage subsidiaries within your organization’s Apple Developer account, ensure they are legally connected and verified by Apple, then they can independently manage their App Store settings.
How does transitioning to an organization Apple Developer account benefit those looking to convert a website to an app?
When you upgrade to an organization account, you gain access to a suite of tools and capabilities that are particularly beneficial for businesses aiming to convert their website to an app. This transition enables a more professional approach to app development and management, which is essential when you're looking to leverage your "web to app" strategy effectively within the Apple ecosystem.
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