A storefront with a giant Google Maps pin stuck through it and a red suspended banner draped across the building.
Google Business Profile

It’s incredibly frustrating to dedicate time and effort to optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP), only to have it suddenly suspended. It’s even more frustrating when it happens again and again! Not only does a suspended GBP mean your customers can’t find you online, but it also makes your business look untrustworthy and unreliable. If you’re constantly asking yourself, Why does my Google Business Profile keep getting suspended? – you’re not alone.

Google is notoriously strict about its guidelines, and even minor infractions can lead to suspension. The good news is that most suspensions are preventable and reversible. Once you understand the common reasons for suspension, you can take steps to avoid them and get your profile reinstated quickly.

Common Reasons for Google Business Profile Suspension

There are many reasons why Google might suspend your Business Profile, but here are some of the most common:

1. Inaccurate or Inconsistent Information

Your GBP must be accurate and consistent with your website and other online listings. Google wants to provide users with reliable information, so any discrepancies can trigger a suspension. This includes:

  • Using keywords or promotional language in your business name.
  • Listing multiple businesses at the same address.
  • Having a different phone number or website address listed on your GBP and your website.
  • Changing your business name frequently.
  • Using a virtual office or PO box as your business address.
  • Using a fake address or an address that doesn’t represent your actual location.

2. Inappropriate Content

Your GBP should be family-friendly and appropriate for all audiences. Avoid using:

  • Profanity or offensive language.
  • Sexually suggestive content.
  • Hate speech or discrimination.
  • Content that promotes violence or illegal activities.

3. Spammy Activity

Google takes a hard line against spammy behavior, which includes:

  • Stuffing your business name and description with keywords.
  • Posting fake reviews or soliciting reviews from customers in exchange for discounts or gifts.
  • Creating multiple GBP accounts for the same business.
  • Using automated software to create or manage your GBP.
  • Adding unrelated keywords to your profile to try and game the search results.

4. Lack of Physical Location or Service Area

To have a GBP, your business must have a physical location that customers can visit or a defined service area. Businesses that operate solely online are not eligible. Make sure that:

  • You have a clearly defined service area if you are a service-area business. If you only service a certain part of town, or a few neighboring towns, be sure to state that. Don’t try to claim the entire city or state.
  • You are not using a virtual office, a co-working space, or a PO box as your primary business address.

5. Third-Party Access Issues

If you’ve granted access to your GBP to a third-party, such as a marketing agency, make sure they are following Google’s guidelines. Their actions can impact your account. To avoid problems:

  • Regularly audit who has access to your GBP.
  • Ensure you are working with reputable agencies that are familiar with Google My Business best practices.
  • Revoke access from any third parties that you no longer work with.

6. Duplicate Listings

Having multiple GBP listings for the same business is against Google’s guidelines. It confuses customers and can lead to a suspension. Be sure to:

  • Claim any existing listings for your business.
  • Merge duplicate listings into a single, accurate profile.
  • Report any listings that you don’t own to Google.

7. Unverified Listing

Google requires businesses to verify their GBP listings to ensure accuracy and authenticity. An unverified listing is more susceptible to suspension. You can verify your listing by:

  • Receiving a postcard from Google with a verification code.
  • Verifying via phone call or email (if eligible).
  • Using Google Search Console (if you’re the website owner).

8. Changes in Business Information

Major changes to your business information, such as your address, phone number, or website, can trigger a suspension. Google may require you to re-verify your listing after such changes. Whenever possible, avoid making significant changes to your listing. If a change is necessary, notify Google through the appropriate channels within your GBP dashboard.

9. Reviews and User-Generated Content

While you can’t control what customers say about your business online, inappropriate or spammy user-generated content can impact your GBP. Monitor your reviews and photos regularly. If you come across violations, flag them for Google’s attention. Google’s algorithms are designed to detect unusual review activity. Avoid asking customers for reviews in exchange for incentives, as this can be interpreted as manipulating your online reputation.

10. Google Algorithm Updates

Google frequently updates its algorithms, which can lead to changes in how GBP listings are evaluated. Stay informed about these updates and be prepared to adapt your GBP strategy accordingly. Google may suspend listings that suddenly violate updated guidelines, even if they were compliant before the update. Stay updated on Google My Business best practices to ensure your listing remains in good standing.

How to Get Your Google Business Profile Reinstated

If your Google Business Profile has been suspended, don’t panic. Here’s what you can do:

1. Identify the Reason for Suspension

Google will usually send you an email explaining why your GBP has been suspended. If you don’t see an email notification, check the Account Status section within your GBP dashboard. Read the email carefully and identify the specific violation(s).

2. Correct the Issues

Once you know why your GBP was suspended, take immediate steps to correct the issues. This might involve:

  • Updating your business information.
  • Removing inappropriate content.
  • Verifying your listing.
  • Addressing any duplicate listings.

3. Submit a Reinstatement Request

Once you’ve fixed the problems, you can submit a reinstatement request to Google. Be sure to:

  • Thoroughly explain the steps you’ve taken to resolve the issues.
  • Provide any supporting documentation, such as photos of your storefront or business license.
  • Be patient, as the reinstatement process can take several days or even weeks.

Preventing Future Suspensions

Once you’ve gotten your Google Business Profile reinstated, take steps to prevent future suspensions:

  • Regularly review your listing to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date.
  • Avoid any spammy activities, such as keyword stuffing or soliciting fake reviews.
  • Stay informed about Google’s guidelines and best practices.
  • Monitor your GBP for any suspicious activity, such as unauthorized edits or spammy reviews.

Conclusion

A suspended Google Business Profile can be a major setback for your business. But by understanding the common reasons for suspension and taking steps to prevent them, you can ensure your GBP remains active and visible to potential customers. Remember to keep your information accurate, avoid spammy activities, and stay informed about Google’s guidelines. By proactively managing your GBP, you can avoid the frustration and lost opportunities associated with a suspension.

Note: 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.