How to verify your business on Google: every method explained
To verify your business on Google, sign in to the Google Account that manages your profile, open your Business Profile, select "Get verified" and follow the method Google offers you. Google chooses the methods for each business, so you can't pick one yourself. Google says reviews take up to 5 business days.
By Ranjit Shah, Founder, Flexi LocalEvery outside claim is linked to its source · How we write our guides
Before you start
- Use a Google Account you'll keep, ideally one the business controls, not a staff member's personal account.
- Check your business name, address and category are right before you start. With postcard verification, changing them afterwards stops the code working.
- If customers don't come to you and you have no permanent sign at your premises, set the profile up as a service-area business. Google's video guidance suggests this for businesses without on-site signage.
- Have your phone charged and be at your business, in case Google offers video verification.
How to start verification
- Sign in to the Google Account linked to your Business Profile.
- Find your business on Google Search. If it isn't there, add or claim it first.
- Go to business.google.com, open your profile and select "Get verified".
- Choose one of the methods offered and follow the steps on screen.
Tip: Google decides which methods you see, based on things like your business type, public information, region and opening hours. Some businesses have to complete more than one.
The verification methods
| Method | How it works | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Phone or text | Google calls or texts a code to your business phone number. | Automated phone menus (IVR) won't receive the code, so make sure a person or a mobile can answer. |
| You follow the steps in an email sent to the address shown on screen. | Check spam if it doesn't arrive. | |
| Video recording | You record a short, live video on your phone through your Business Profile. | At least 30 seconds, unedited and in one take. See the checklist below. |
| Live video call | A Google support representative talks you through a video call. | Only available during your business hours. |
| Postcard | Google posts a 5-digit code to your business address. | Most codes arrive within 14 days and expire after 30 days. |
| Instant | Google may verify you straight away. | Possible if you've verified your website in Google Search Console, or with bulk verification for many locations. |
How to pass video verification
Google wants to see three things in one continuous recording: where you are, that the business exists, and that you manage it.
| Show | Shop, office or clinic | Service-area business (you go to customers) |
|---|---|---|
| Where you are | Street signs, the building number, neighbouring businesses or landmarks | Street signs or landmarks near your business address. Don't film empty land. |
| The business exists | Your storefront or signage, with the business name on a permanent fixture, matching your profile name | Your tools, equipment, products, branded clothing, business cards or workspace |
| You manage it | Staff-only areas: the till, kitchen, stock room or point-of-sale system | Doing the work, or unlocking a branded van. A permit, invoice or utility bill in the profile name also works. |
- Record live from your phone through your Business Profile. Pre-recorded videos aren't allowed.
- Don't show bank, tax or ID numbers, other private information or other people's faces.
- Common reasons for rejection: the business name isn't visible on the storefront, the surrounding area isn't shown, or there's no proof you run the business.
If you're waiting for a postcard
- Don't edit your business name, address or category while you wait. The code may stop working.
- Don't request a new code. It cancels the one in the post and can make the process longer.
- Most codes arrive within 14 days. Each code expires after 30 days.
If verification fails
- Read the rejection email carefully. It usually says what was missing.
- For video verification, record again and include everything from the first video plus the missing items.
- Make sure your profile name matches your sign exactly.
- If you have no storefront sign, consider switching to a service-area profile.
- If you're stuck, use the contact options in Google Business Profile Help. Be wary of anyone who charges to "guarantee" verification.
Sources
- Google Business Profile Help: Verify your business on Google
- Google Business Profile Help: Verify your business with a video recording
- Google Business Profile Help: Add or claim your Business Profile
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