What are the "new" verification checkmark requirements without signing to a MCN?

So I've seen several videos mentioning the requirements for the verification checkmark (1k google+ followers, connecting to website blabla), but I've fulfilled all of those and still haven't gotten the checkmark.

With almost 65k subscribers and doing YouTube for over 3 years it's kind of sad to see small channels having this check mark just because they sign with a scammy MCN while I don't have one.

Every time I contact YouTube they say it's an automated process but seeing my channel has passed all requirements while seeing smaller channels that got one just cause they sign with a MCN it seems to me like it's not an automated process overall. Seeing I don't have one I don't know what should change for me to get one, and it upsets me seeing small channels having one while all I get back from any YouTube response is that it's an automated process which I just don't believe.

Any feedback, direction or stories from those who are (or have been) in a similar position would really help. Thanks!