A frustrated business owner surrounded by tangled wires and broken computer screens, with a magnifying glass inspecting a Google My Business logo that has an error message.
Blog

Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is your business’s online storefront, showcasing your information to potential customers across Google Search and Maps. A well-maintained profile can significantly impact your visibility and attract new customers. However, encountering errors can hinder your profile’s performance and make it difficult for customers to find you. This comprehensive guide dives into common Google Business Profile errors, their causes, and actionable solutions to get your profile back on track.

Understanding Google Business Profile Errors

GBP errors can manifest in various ways, from issues with information accuracy and inconsistencies to problems with user access and verification. These errors can arise from simple oversights, technical glitches, or even changes in Google’s algorithms. Recognizing the specific error is the first step to effective troubleshooting.

Common Google Business Profile Errors and Solutions

Here’s a breakdown of frequent GBP errors and how to resolve them:

1. Duplicate Listing Error

Cause: This error occurs when Google detects multiple listings for the same business at the same address. It could be due to unintentional duplicate creation or remnants of an old profile.

Solution:

  • Identify Duplicates: Search Google Maps for your business name and address variations.
  • Claim and Merge: If you have access to the duplicate listing, claim it and merge it with your main profile.
  • Report Duplicates: If you don’t have access, use Google’s Suggest an edit feature to report the duplicate. Provide clear evidence and Google will review your request.

2. Address not Showing on Maps Error

Cause: This can stem from incorrect address formatting, pending verification, or issues with Google’s mapping data.

Solution:

  • Verify Address Accuracy: Double-check your address for typos, abbreviations, and correct suite/unit numbers. Ensure it matches official sources like your website or government records.
  • Complete Verification: If your profile isn’t verified, Google might withhold address display. Follow Google’s verification process, typically a postcard with a verification code.
  • Check Service Area Businesses: If you’re a service-area business (e.g., plumber, electrician), ensure you’ve correctly configured your service areas and haven’t entered a physical address.
  • Report Mapping Errors: If you believe the issue is with Google Maps itself, use the Report a map error feature to pinpoint the problem. Google will review and update their maps accordingly.

3. Suspended Google Business Profile Error

Cause: Suspension happens when Google flags your profile for potential violations of their guidelines. This can include suspicious activity, misleading information, or practices deemed harmful to users.

Solution:

  • Review Google My Business Guidelines: Carefully go through Google’s guidelines to identify potential violations in your profile. Common issues include keyword stuffing in the business name, using virtual offices, or misrepresenting your services.
  • Request Reinstatement: If you believe the suspension was in error or you’ve addressed the violations, appeal to Google. Provide detailed explanations and evidence to support your case. Be patient, as reinstatement can take time.

4. Pending Google Business Profile Verification Error

Cause: This arises when Google’s verification process hasn’t been completed, leaving your profile in a limited state.

Solution:

  • Check Verification Options: Sign in to your GBP dashboard to see available verification methods. Common options include postcard, phone call, email, or instant verification (available for some businesses).
  • Request a New Code: If your verification code is lost or expired, request a new one through your GBP dashboard.
  • Troubleshooting Verification Problems: If you face persistent verification issues, contact Google My Business support for assistance. They can help troubleshoot specific problems or offer alternative verification methods.

5. Inconsistent Business Information Error

Cause: This error signals discrepancies between your GBP information and data found elsewhere online. Google prioritizes consistency to ensure data accuracy for users.

Solution:

  • Audit Your Information: Compare your GBP details with information on your website, social media, and other online directories. Look for inconsistencies in business name, address, phone number, website URL, and category.
  • Standardize Your NAP: Maintain a consistent Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) across all online platforms. This strengthens your business’s online presence and avoids confusion for Google and customers.
  • Use Data Aggregators: Consider using data aggregator services to distribute your business information consistently across major directories and platforms.

6. Edit Not Publishing Error

Cause: This frustrating error prevents changes to your GBP profile from being published. It can stem from technical glitches, Google’s review process, or pending verification.

Solution:

  • Check for Pending Verification: Ensure your profile is fully verified. Google may withhold edits until verification is complete.
  • Review Google’s Guidelines: Ensure your edits comply with Google’s guidelines. Avoid keyword stuffing, inappropriate content, or misleading information.
  • Wait for Google’s Review: Google often reviews edits before publishing to maintain data quality. This review process can take some time, especially for significant changes.
  • Clear Browser Cache and Cookies: Clearing your browser’s cache and cookies can resolve temporary glitches that might hinder editing.
  • Try a Different Browser or Device: If issues persist, try accessing your GBP dashboard from a different browser or device to rule out browser-specific problems.

7. Access/Ownership Issues Error

Cause: This error arises when you’re unable to access or manage your GBP profile due to ownership disputes or lost credentials.

Solution:

  • Recover Account: If you’ve lost access to your Google account, use Google’s account recovery process. Provide the necessary information to regain access to your associated GBP profile.
  • Request Ownership Transfer: If the profile is owned by someone else (e.g., a former employee), request an ownership transfer. This involves the current owner granting you access through the GBP dashboard.
  • Contact Google My Business Support: For complex ownership disputes or issues with regaining access, contact Google My Business Support for assistance. Be prepared to provide detailed information about your business and the situation.

Proactive GBP Management and Best Practices

Preventing errors is always preferable to fixing them. Here are key steps for proactive GBP management:

  • Regularly Audit Your Profile: Check for accuracy, completeness, and consistency in your business information.
  • Stay Updated on Google’s Guidelines: Google frequently updates its guidelines. Stay informed to avoid violations and ensure your profile remains compliant.
  • Monitor for Notifications and Reviews: Pay attention to notifications from Google regarding your profile. Respond promptly to reviews and address customer feedback.
  • Use Google My Business Insights: Leverage insights data to understand how customers find your profile and engage with your listing. This data can guide your GBP optimization strategy.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting Google Business Profile errors is essential for maintaining a strong online presence and attracting customers. By understanding the causes, applying the appropriate solutions, and adopting proactive management practices, you can ensure your GBP remains a valuable asset for your business.

Experience the future of business AI and customer engagement with our innovative solutions. Elevate your operations with Zing Business Systems. Visit us here for a transformative journey towards intelligent automation and enhanced customer experiences.

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.