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How do I set up a KDP account?

In this article, we will briefly look at how to create a KDP account.

landon.mccaig avatar
Written by landon.mccaig
Updated this week

Overview

This article provides step-by-step instructions for creating a Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) account on Amazon. KDP allows authors and publishers to self-publish books and earn royalties.


Prerequisites

Before starting, ensure you have:

  • A reliable internet connection

  • A mobile phone for 2-step verification

  • Your personal identification information

  • Bank account details for royalty payments

  • Tax identification number (EIN or SSN)


Step-by-Step Account Setup Process

Step 1: Access the KDP Website

  1. Visit the official KDP website: https://kdp.amazon.com/

  2. Choose your account option:

    1. New users: Click "Join KDP" to create a new Amazon account

    2. Existing Amazon users: Click "Sign in" and use your existing Amazon credentials

Step 2: Accept Terms and Conditions

For new KDP accounts only:

  1. Review the KDP terms and conditions thoroughly

  2. Click "Agree" to accept the terms and proceed

    Terms and Conditions for Writing and Selling on KDP

Step 3: Complete Account Verification

  1. Click "Update Now" to complete your account information

  2. Complete the 2-step verification process:

    1. Have your mobile phone ready

    2. Follow the on-screen prompts

    3. Enter the verification code when prompted

Step 4: Enter Personal Information

Complete the following Personal Information fields:

  • Country of residence

  • Full name

  • Email address

  • Password

  • Account type: Select "Individual"

  • Choose "Individual" for most cases

  • Choose "Business" only if you have an LLC structured as a C-Corp

Step 5: Set Up Payment Information

Configure your Payment Information to receive royalties. Required Bank Account Details:

  • Country where your bank account is located

  • Account holder details (full name)

  • Type of account (checking or savings)

  • Account number

  • Bank name

  • Proof of bank account (bank statement or voided check)

Step 6: Complete Tax Information

Business Classification:

  1. Location: Select whether you/your business is located in the USA or not

  2. Business type: Choose the appropriate business classification

  3. Business details:

    1. Enter your business name

    2. Enter your business address

  4. Tax identification:

    1. Enter your EIN (Employer Identification Number) for businesses

    2. Enter your SSN (Social Security Number) for individuals

Final Setup:

  1. Follow all remaining on-screen instructions

  2. Review all entered information for accuracy

  3. Submit your account setup

Your KDP account will now be active and ready for publishing.


Important Notes

  • 2-step verification is mandatory for all KDP accounts

  • Direct deposit is the standard method for royalty payments

  • Tax information is required for royalty reporting and compliance

  • Account setup may take several minutes to complete

  • Keep your login credentials secure


Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues during setup:

  • Ensure all required fields are completed accurately

  • Verify your internet connection is stable

  • Check that your mobile phone can receive SMS messages

  • Contact KDP support if verification fails

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