DTI Trustmark Guide for Online Businesses
The DTI Trustmark is a mandatory digital badge for online sellers, e-retailers, and digital platforms in the Philippines. It certifies compliance with consumer protection standards under the Internet Transactions Act of 2023. All covered online businesses must secure it by September 30, 2025 to continue legal operations.
What you’ll learn in this DTI Trustmark guide
This DTI Trustmark guide for online businesses in the Philippines explains when the Trustmark is required, how to apply, what the fees are, and how to stay compliant under the Internet Transactions Act.
For related registration and online selling topics, also see our DTI Business Name Registration Guide, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop Online Marketplaces Guide, and Digital Tax Filing & Payment (eBIRForms) Guide.
To plan ahead for your DTI Trustmark application and yearly renewals (Micro, Small, or Medium fees), you can also use our Budget Calculator to include Trustmark costs in your annual online business budget.
When DTI Trustmark Is Needed
The Trustmark is required for online businesses that sell or facilitate transactions with Philippine consumers.
- Online sellers and stores on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, Facebook/Instagram shops, independent webstores, and social-selling pages.
- E-retailers and digital marketplaces serving Philippine consumers.
- Applies to both B2C and B2B businesses conducting online transactions.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Prepare Required Documents
- Business name registration certificate (DTI, SEC, or CDA as applicable).
- BIR Certificate of Registration.
- Valid government-issued ID of the owner or authorized representative.
- Proof of internal complaint/redress mechanism (e.g., written refund/return policy, customer service email or hotline).
- Other permits or licenses for regulated products (food, medicine, financial services, etc.).
Online Application Submission
Go to the official DTI Trustmark portal: https://trustmark.dti.gov.ph
- Fill out the online application form with accurate business details.
- Upload all required documents in clear, readable format.
Pay Fees
Pay the application and administrative/documentary fees using the payment options listed on the portal. Fee structure is based on business asset size:
- Micro (≤ ₱3 million): ₱0 application fee, ₱100 web admin fee, ₱30 documentary stamp – Total ₱130
- Small (> ₱3 million to ₱15 million): ₱500 application fee, ₱100 web admin fee, ₱30 documentary stamp – Total ₱630
- Medium (> ₱15 million): ₱1,000 application fee, ₱100 web admin fee, ₱30 documentary stamp – Total ₱1,130
Evaluation
DTI reviews your application and may request clarifications or additional documents. Processing typically takes up to 7 working days, depending on completeness and volume of applications.
Issuance of Trustmark
Once approved, your business receives a digital Trustmark badge with a security number and QR code.
- Display the badge on your website, social media profiles, and online store pages.
- Ensure the QR code links to your verified Trustmark details.
Annual Renewal
The DTI Trustmark is valid for one (1) year and must be renewed annually. Renewal fees follow the same structure as initial application (Micro, Small, Medium).
📊 Summary Table: DTI Trustmark Fees
| Business Type | Application Fee | Admin Fee | Stamp | Total Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Micro (<₱3M) | ₱0 | ₱100 | ₱30 | ₱130 | Free application; pay only admin and documentary stamp |
| Small (₱3M–₱15M) | ₱500 | ₱100 | ₱30 | ₱630 | Around 50% discount vs. larger entities |
| Medium (>₱15M) | ₱1,000 | ₱100 | ₱30 | ₱1,130 | Full yearly fee |
📌 Key Reminders
- Apply before September 30, 2025 to avoid being barred from online selling.
- The process is mandatory—not voluntary—for covered businesses under the Internet Transactions Act and implementing rules (e.g., DAO 25-12, RA 11967).
- Always refer to the official DTI Trustmark portal and latest announcements for updated fees and documentary requirements.