How to Verify a Google Business Profile

Verification is Google's way of confirming you actually run the business at the address you claim. An unverified profile is essentially invisible — it won't appear in local searches and customers can't leave reviews. Most businesses get postcard verification by default; some categories and countries get phone, email, or video. Here's how to complete each, and how to recover if one fails.

  1. 1

    Confirm which verification methods you've been offered

    Sign in at business.google.com and open your profile. The available methods depend on your business category, country, and Google's risk assessment. New service-area businesses and high-spam categories (locksmiths, towing, garage doors) are usually pushed to video verification.

  2. 2

    For postcard verification, leave the profile alone for 14 days

    Postcards are mailed to the address on the profile within 5 days and arrive in 5–14 days total. Don't change the business name, address, or category during this window — any significant edit cancels the postcard and forces you to start over. When the postcard arrives, enter the 5-digit code at business.google.com.

  3. 3

    For phone or email verification, use a number or address that matches your website

    Phone verification calls or texts a one-time code instantly. Email verification sends a code to a business-domain email (not Gmail). If the contact information doesn't match what's publicly visible on your website, Google may refuse the method.

  4. 4

    For video verification, record a continuous unedited walk-through

    Google asks for a single take, no cuts, no editing. Show: (1) outdoor signage with the business name and street, (2) the area around the building (recognizable landmarks), (3) the interior including any branded items, (4) proof you have owner access — point-of-sale systems, keys, business mail with the address. Videos under 60 seconds frequently get rejected; aim for 2–4 minutes.

  5. 5

    Submit and wait 3–5 business days for video review

    Video verification is reviewed by humans and takes 3–5 business days. You won't get progress updates. If approved, the profile goes live immediately. If rejected, you can resubmit a new video — fix whatever the rejection email cited.

  6. 6

    Appeal if you're rejected for reasons that don't apply

    Common bad rejections: 'business not at this address' for legitimate service-area businesses, 'suspended for policy violation' with no specific policy cited. Use the reinstatement form at support.google.com/business and include photos, utility bills, business registration, and the lease — whatever proves the business is real. Reinstatement averages 7–14 days.

FAQ

Why can't I see the verification button?
Three common reasons: (1) Google already auto-verified you, in which case the profile is live — check the public listing; (2) the profile is suspended and needs reinstatement first; (3) you're signed in to the wrong Google account and don't actually have access. Check who owns the profile under Users in business.google.com.
What if my postcard never arrives?
Wait the full 14 days, then request a new one through business.google.com. Confirm the address is exactly right — typos in suite numbers are the most common cause. If a second postcard fails, request video verification instead by contacting Google Business Profile support.
Can someone verify my business without my permission?
It happens — usually a former employee, a competitor, or a 'marketing agency' that claimed the listing years ago. Submit a reclaim request at business.google.com/claim. Google contacts the current owner; if they don't respond in 7 days, ownership transfers to you. Include proof of your business registration and any documentation of the relationship with the prior claimant.

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