Amazon Account Suspended for Linked Accounts: A Comprehensive Appeal Guide

Receiving a Performance Notification informing you that your Amazon Seller Central account has been suspended due to 'related accounts' can be a jarring experience. This violation stems from Amazon's policy prohibiting sellers from operating multiple accounts without a legitimate business justification (e.g., needing separate accounts for different brands with unique banking and tax information). A successful reinstatement hinges on a meticulously crafted Plan of Action (POA) demonstrating a clear understanding of the policy, the root cause, and concrete steps taken to rectify the situation.

I. Understanding the Root Cause

Before crafting your appeal, accurately identify the account Amazon believes is related to yours. Consider the following:

• Shared Information: Were the same bank account details, credit card information, email addresses, physical addresses (business or residential), phone numbers, or Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TINs) used for multiple accounts?
• Shared Technology: Have the same computers, internet connections (IP addresses), or mobile devices been used to access multiple Seller Central accounts?
• Close Relationships: Are you closely connected (e.g., business partners, family members) with individuals operating other Amazon accounts?
• Incorrectly Flagged: In rare cases, accounts are incorrectly flagged. If you genuinely believe this is the case, clearly state it and provide supporting documentation. Amazon's systems are not infallible, but a respectful and data-driven approach is crucial.

Once you've identified the potential link, pinpoint the exact policy violation. Amazon’s policy concerning multiple seller accounts is outlined within the Amazon Seller Code of Conduct and related help pages on Account Health. Review these meticulously.

II. Corrective Actions (What You've Already Done)

This section of your Plan of Action details the immediate steps you took upon receiving the suspension notice. Specific actions will vary depending on the root cause, but common examples include:

1. Account Closure (if applicable): If a linked account was created in violation of Amazon’s policies, immediately close it. Provide proof of closure (screenshot of the closed account page in Seller Central) in your appeal.
2. Information Updates: If shared information was the cause (e.g., bank account details), update the conflicting information in either your account or the linked account. Clearly state which account was updated and provide supporting documentation (e.g., a bank statement).
3. Internal Investigation: Conduct a thorough internal investigation to identify all potential connections between your account and any other Amazon accounts. Document your findings meticulously.
4. Contacting Related Parties: If the linked account belongs to someone you know, work with them to understand the situation and ensure they are also compliant with Amazon's policies.

III. Preventative Measures (How You'll Avoid Future Violations)

This is arguably the most crucial section of your POA. Amazon wants assurance that you understand the policy and have implemented safeguards to prevent future violations. Examples include:

1. Policy Review: Detail a comprehensive review of Amazon's policies regarding multiple accounts, including the Seller Code of Conduct and relevant help pages on Account Health and prohibited seller activities.
2. Training: If you have employees, describe the training you will implement to ensure they understand and adhere to Amazon's policies regarding multiple accounts and data security.
3. Account Management Procedures: Outline the procedures you will implement to prevent unauthorized access to your account and to monitor for any suspicious activity.
4. Technology Security: Describe the measures you will take to secure your computer systems and internet connections, such as using strong passwords, regularly updating software, and using a VPN.
5. Due Diligence: Implement a robust due diligence process for onboarding new business partners or employees to ensure they are not associated with any other Amazon accounts in violation of Amazon's policies.

IV. Providing Compelling Evidence

Your appeal must be supported by strong evidence. This may include:

• Proof of Account Closure: Screenshot of the closed account page in Seller Central.
• Bank Statements: Bank statements showing updated account information.
• Utility Bills: Utility bills showing different addresses for different accounts.
• Business License: Documentation demonstrating the legitimate need for separate accounts (e.g., operating different brands under separate legal entities).
• Affidavits: Signed affidavits from individuals involved, explaining the situation and affirming their commitment to compliance.

V. Best Practices for a Successful Appeal

• Be Concise and Clear: Avoid unnecessary details and focus on the key facts.
• Be Honest and Transparent: Don't try to hide information or mislead Amazon.
• Take Responsibility: Acknowledge the violation and demonstrate a genuine desire to correct the situation.
• Be Professional: Maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout your appeal.
• Submit Your Appeal Through Seller Central: Use the appeal button in your Performance Notifications section of Seller Central.
• Proofread Carefully: Ensure your appeal is free of grammatical errors and typos.
• Don't Spam Amazon: Avoid submitting multiple appeals before receiving a response to your initial appeal. Wait for a decision before submitting additional information.

VI. Example Plan of Action Outline

Subject: Appeal for Account Suspension - [Your Seller ID]

Dear Amazon Seller Performance Team,

Thank you for the opportunity to appeal the suspension of my Amazon seller account [Your Seller ID]. I understand that my account was suspended because it was identified as being related to another account. I have thoroughly investigated this issue and have taken the following steps to address it:

• Root Cause: [Clearly and concisely explain the root cause of the violation]
• Corrective Actions: [Detail the immediate actions you took to rectify the situation]
• Preventative Measures: [Outline the steps you will take to prevent future violations]
• Evidence: [List the documents you are providing to support your appeal]

I am committed to complying with all of Amazon's policies and providing a positive customer experience. I respectfully request that you reinstate my account.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Successfully navigating an amazon account suspended for linked accounts appeal requires diligence, transparency, and a well-structured Plan of Action. By following these guidelines and providing compelling evidence, you significantly increase your chances of reinstatement.