A storefront with a magnifying glass hovering over a Google Maps pin on a smartphone, with the storefront reflecting on the phone's screen.
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Google Business Profile

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for businesses of all sizes. One of the most important tools for managing your online presence is your Google Business Profile (GBP). Your GBP is a free listing that appears in Google Search and Maps, providing potential customers with essential information about your business, such as your address, phone number, hours of operation, reviews, and more.

What is a Google Business Profile Ownership Request?

A Google Business Profile ownership request is the process of claiming and verifying your business on Google. This is essential because it allows you to manage the information that appears on your GBP and ensure that it is accurate and up-to-date. When you claim your GBP, you gain control over how your business appears to potential customers who find you on Google Search and Maps.

Why Is Claiming Your GBP So Important?

Claiming your Google Business Profile is essential for several reasons:

Enhanced Visibility and Local SEO

Your GBP plays a significant role in local search engine optimization (SEO). When someone searches for businesses like yours in their area, Google uses the information in your GBP to determine whether your business is relevant to the search. A claimed and optimized GBP increases your chances of appearing higher in local search results, driving more potential customers to your website or storefront.

Accurate Business Information

Claiming your GBP allows you to control and update your business information, ensuring that potential customers have access to accurate details. This includes your address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and other essential details that influence customer decisions.

Customer Engagement and Trust

Your GBP enables you to engage with customers through reviews, photos, and posts. Responding to reviews, sharing updates, and showcasing your products or services helps build trust and credibility with potential customers.

Data and Insights

Google My Business provides valuable insights into how customers find and interact with your GBP. You can track views, clicks, calls, and other metrics, helping you understand customer behavior and make data-driven decisions to improve your online presence.

How to Claim Your Google Business Profile: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to claim and verify your Google Business Profile:

1. Sign in to Google My Business

Visit the Google My Business website (business.google.com) and sign in with your Google account. If you don’t have a Google account, you’ll need to create one.

2. Search for Your Business

Enter your business name and address in the search bar. If your business is already listed, you’ll see it in the search results. If your business isn’t listed, click on Add your business to Google.

3. Enter Your Business Information

Fill out your business details, including your business name, address, phone number, website, category, and hours of operation. Double-check the accuracy of this information, as it will be publicly displayed on your GBP.

4. Verify Your Business

Google needs to verify that you are the rightful owner of the business. The most common verification method is through a postcard mailed to your business address. The postcard contains a unique verification code that you’ll need to enter into your Google My Business account.

5. Optimize Your GBP

Once your business is verified, take the time to optimize your GBP fully:

  • Add photos and videos that showcase your business and offerings.
  • Write a compelling business description that accurately represents your brand and target audience.
  • Choose relevant categories that help Google understand your business and match it with relevant searches.
  • Regularly update your GBP with fresh content, such as posts about promotions, events, or new products and services.
  • Encourage customers to leave reviews, and respond to reviews, both positive and negative, professionally and promptly.

Understanding Google Business Profile Ownership Disputes

In some cases, you may encounter issues when trying to claim your GBP. One common issue is a Google Business Profile ownership dispute. This occurs when someone else has already claimed the GBP for your business. There are several reasons why this might happen:

  • A former employee or manager may have created the GBP and never transferred ownership.
  • An agency or marketing company previously managed your online presence and still has control over the GBP.
  • Someone may have created a duplicate GBP for your business, either accidentally or intentionally.

How to Resolve a Google Business Profile Ownership Dispute

If you’re facing an ownership dispute, don’t worry; there are steps you can take to resolve it.

1. Reach Out to the Current Owner

If you know who the current owner is, try contacting them directly. They may be willing to transfer ownership to you. You can find their contact information in the Info section of the GBP.

2. Request Ownership Transfer Through Google

If you’re unable to reach the current owner or they’re unwilling to cooperate, you can request ownership transfer through Google My Business. Follow these steps:

  • Sign in to your Google My Business account and locate the disputed GBP.
  • Click on Request ownership and follow the on-screen prompts. You’ll need to provide evidence to support your claim, such as business registration documents or a utility bill.
  • Google will review your request and contact the current owner to confirm the transfer. This process can take several days or weeks.

3. Contact Google My Business Support

If you’re unable to resolve the ownership dispute through the above methods, you can contact Google My Business support for assistance. They can help mediate the situation and guide you through the necessary steps to regain control of your GBP.

Best Practices for Managing Your GBP Ownership

To avoid future ownership disputes and ensure the security of your Google Business Profile, consider these best practices:

  • Use a dedicated Google account specifically for your business. Avoid using personal Google accounts to create or manage your GBP.
  • Keep your contact information up-to-date in your Google My Business account. This ensures that Google can reach you if there are any issues or if they need to verify your ownership.
  • Regularly review your GBP and make sure all information is accurate and current.
  • If you work with agencies or marketing companies, clarify ownership and access rights from the outset. Ensure that you have administrative access to your GBP and that you can regain full control if the partnership ends.
  • Implement two-factor authentication for your Google account to add an extra layer of security and prevent unauthorized access.


Zing Business Systems provides done-for-you solutions for Google Business Profiles or provides ideas and solutions for the DIY business owner.

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Author: Matt Kallunki

Background and Experience Born in North Carolina and raised in a military family that moved frequently across North America, Europe, and Hong Kong, Matt Kallunki learned the values of adaptability and resilience from an early age. He enlisted in the Army National Guard at 17, bringing dedication and commitment to his service—a trait he has carried through every opportunity since. His education at Utah Valley University and later at Utah State University, along with diverse roles in technology, hospitality, and marketing, has shaped a career marked by innovation and leadership. As a veteran, Kallunki proudly leads Zing Business Systems, a veteran-owned and operated business. Inspiration and Innovation The constant throughout Kallunki’s career has been the importance of effective marketing—an insight first gained while running his initial restaurant. This understanding guided him through various entrepreneurial and consulting roles, eventually leading to the foundation of Zing Business Systems. Here, Kallunki has harnessed emerging technologies to provide small businesses with smart, scalable communication solutions. Zing Business Systems: Bridging Technology and Opportunity Zing Business Systems turns everyday challenges into growth opportunities. The company's flagship service, the Missed Call Text Back, ensures that small businesses never miss out on potential customer engagements. Kallunki equips his clients with tools that streamline communication, allowing them to focus on what truly matters—their core business and customer relationships. Customer Impact Kallunki's technology revolutionizes how businesses interact with customers. From automotive to professional services, he helps business owners centralize operations and automate routine tasks, significantly enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction. Looking Ahead Dedicated to continuous innovation and expansion, Zing Business Systems is committed to empowering more businesses with effective communication tools. With over two decades of marketing experience and a lifelong passion for service, Kallunki is redefining standards in business engagement and management. More About Matt In addition to his professional pursuits, Matt Kallunki is a lifelong motivated learner with a diverse array of hobbies and interests that span both creative and technical fields. From open boat sailing and spear fishing to ham radio operation and gardening, Matt's activities reflect his broad interests and relentless curiosity. A Cold War to present military enthusiast and avid reader, he also indulges in audiobooks, constantly seeking new knowledge and adventures. As a certified scuba instructor and divemaster, Matt takes his passion for exploration below the water's surface, teaching others and enjoying the serene beauty of the underwater world. His love for hands-on creation is evident in his skills in woodworking and metalworking, while his technical acumen shines through in his interests in cybersecurity and networking. Photography is another passion, capturing moments from his ventures and everyday life, showcasing his artistic eye and attention to detail. Whether it’s running marathons, launching high-powered rockets, or nurturing his garden, each hobby Matt engages in reflects a facet of his dynamic personality and relentless pursuit of growth and excellence. Connect with Matt Kallunki You can connect with Matt and learn more about his work and Zing Business Systems through various platforms: Visit https://blog.zingacp.com/about-us-page for social and medial links.