Rkimball: What are the Steps to Declare Trader or Non-Trader Status on the Apple App Store?

Developer Requirement: Declaring Trader or Non-Trader Status for the App Store

Apple now requires all App Store developers to disclose whether they are traders or non-traders, in line with the Digital Services Act (DSA). This initiative aims to enhance transparency and safety within the digital marketplace.

Why This Matters?

Under the DSA, Apple must ask developers to declare their status as professional traders. If you identify as a trader, Apple will display details such as your address and contact information on your App Store page for customers in the EU. For developers with multiple apps, you can choose whether to display this trader status on a per-app basis.

If you declare yourself as a non-trader, customers in the EU will be informed that certain consumer rights may not apply to transactions with you.

Who Needs to Take Action?

All developers with apps on the Apple App Store must address this requirement.

Steps to Declare Your Status

Log into App Store Connect.
Navigate to the Business section.
Complete your compliance requirements.
Under the "European Union Digital Services Act" section, choose whether you are a trader or a non-trader.

For Traders:

Submit your documents and confirm your contact information.
Choose the language for your documents and click Next.
Verify your contact information and click Next to finalize.

How to Determine Your Status?

You may be a Non-Trader if you:
Sell products or services occasionally and not as your primary occupation.
Treat this as a hobby or a small side project.
You are likely a Trader if you:
Regularly sell goods or services for profit.
Consider this activity a significant part of your business.

Examples to Help You Decide

If you frequently engage in commercial activities to generate income, you’re considered a "Trader."
If your app is a key business component or a major income source, you're likely a Trader.
If your app is free, non-profit, or purely for fun, and not intended to generate significant revenue, you might be a Non-Trader.
If you’re growing your business and regularly selling products but it's not your main income source, you may be a Non-Trader. However, you should periodically reassess your status.