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flexi local
Google Business Profile · 6 min read · Updated

How to add your business to Google and Google Maps

To add your business to Google, go to business.google.com/add, select "Add your business to Google", enter your details and verify. It's free. If your business already appears on Google Maps, claim that listing instead of making a new one, so you don't end up with a duplicate.

By Ranjit Shah, Founder, Flexi LocalEvery outside claim is linked to its source · How we write our guides

First, check you're not already on Google

Search for your business name and town on Google Maps. Customers or Google may have added your business already, even if you never did.

  • If you find it and it says "Claim this business", claim it rather than adding a new one.
  • If you find it and someone else manages it, you can request ownership.
  • If you can't find it, add it as a new business.
Tip: Two profiles for one business split your reviews and confuse customers. Always check first.

Step by step: add a new business

  1. Go to business.google.com/add and sign in with the Google Account you want to manage the business with.
  2. Select "Add your business to Google".
  3. Enter your business details, following the steps on screen.
  4. Choose a verification option and complete it.
  5. Once verified, finish your profile: hours, photos, services and a description.

What to enter, and how

DetailWhat to putTip
Business nameThe name on your sign, van and paperworkDon't add your town or services unless they're part of the real name.
CategoryThe one that best describes your main serviceIt's one of the most important choices; you can add more categories later.
LocationYour address, if customers visit youMake sure it's correct and meets Google's address guidelines.
Service areaThe towns or areas you travel to, if you go to customersIf customers don't visit you, add a service area rather than showing your home address.
Phone and websiteA number that's answered, and your main web pageUse the same number everywhere you're listed online.

Who can add a business

Only businesses that are eligible for a Business Profile can be added or claimed on Google. If you're unsure, for example because you only sell online, check Google's eligibility and ownership guidelines before you start.

After you've added your business

  • Verify it. Until then, your details may not show to customers.
  • Add opening hours, including holiday hours.
  • Add real photos of your premises, team and work.
  • Start asking every customer for a review with a direct link.

Sources

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Once your profile is live, get your direct review link and a printable QR poster.

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Questions owners ask

Is it free to add my business to Google?

Yes. Adding or claiming a Business Profile is free.

How long until my business shows on Google Maps?

After you verify. Google says verification reviews take up to 5 business days, occasionally longer, and postcard codes usually arrive within 14 days.

Can I add a home-based business?

Usually, yes, if it's eligible under Google's guidelines. If customers don't visit your home, set it up with a service area rather than showing your home address.

My business is already on Google but I didn't add it. What now?

Claim it. Open it on Google Maps, select "Claim this business", then "Manage now", and verify.

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