The 2026 rule: official transfers only
Google announced in April 2026 that starting May 27, 2026, developer account ownership changes must use the official account transfer feature in Play Console. Unofficial transfers — sharing login credentials, or buying, leasing and selling accounts on third-party marketplaces — are not permitted.
- Transfers start from Users and permissions in Play Console, initiated by the owner.
- Every transfer has a mandatory 7-day security hold.
- The new owner must provide and verify identity information.
- Monetizing personal accounts can't be transferred directly — the app has to move to a new account through app transfer.
Risks of buying an account privately
- Identity mismatch: verification and payment details belong to the seller. If Google asks for re-verification, you can't provide them.
- Linked terminations: Google links accounts by devices, networks and payment details. If the seller's other accounts are banned, yours can go too.
- Account recovery by the seller: whoever controls the original email or payment profile can take the account back — with your apps and revenue.
- The transfer itself breaks policy, leaving little room to appeal.
Your options compared
| Option | When it fits | Key points |
|---|---|---|
| Register under your own name (we can help) | Most new projects | Account, verification and payouts are yours; organization accounts skip the 12-tester test |
| Official account transfer | Acquisitions, restructuring, staff changes | Started in Play Console, 7-day hold, new owner verifies identity |
| App transfer | You only need one app | Both accounts registered and in good standing; Google usually responds within 2 business days |
Red flags
- You get an email and password instead of an official ownership transfer.
- Promises like "never banned" or "guaranteed approval".
- The seller can't tell you who the account is registered to.
FAQ
Can you buy and sell Google Play developer accounts?
No. Since May 27, 2026, ownership changes must use the official Play Console account transfer feature, and buying, leasing or selling accounts on third-party marketplaces is prohibited.
Will a bought account let me skip the 12-tester closed test?
It carries identity, linking and recovery risks and breaks policy. The compliant alternative is an organization account under your own company, which is not subject to the closed testing requirement.
I only want one app from another account. What should I do?
Use Google's app transfer process. Both accounts must be registered and in good standing, and Google usually responds within 2 business days.
What's the difference between registration help and buying an account?
With registration help, the account is created with your own identity or company details, so verification and payouts are yours. A bought account stays tied to someone else's identity.
Related guides
Create a Google Play account · 12 testers for 14 days · Organization accounts
Don't risk a bought account. Tell us whether you're an individual or a company and we'll plan a compliant registration.
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