A confused cartoon magnifying glass with arms, wearing a Google Maps location pin hat, staring at a tangled mess of verification checkmarks and red X marks.
Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile Won’t Verify?

You’re ready to take control of your online presence and attract more local customers. You’ve created a Google Business Profile (GBP, formerly Google My Business), but there’s a problem: you can’t verify it.

This roadblock can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to start using all the great features GBP offers. Don’t worry! This article will guide you through the common reasons why your Google Business Profile won’t verify and provide actionable solutions to help you get verified and gain control of your business’s online visibility.

Why Is Google Business Profile Verification So Important?

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s understand why Google takes verification so seriously. Verification is essential for several reasons:

  • Protects Your Business Information: Verification ensures that you are the legitimate owner of your business and helps prevent fraudulent activities or others from claiming your profile.
  • Ensures Accurate Information for Customers: Verification assures potential customers that your business information is up-to-date and trustworthy, enhancing their experience and increasing their confidence in your brand.
  • Unlocks Powerful Features: A verified GBP unlocks a treasure chest of tools and features that can significantly enhance your online presence. These include:
    • Google Posts: Share engaging updates, promotions, and news directly with your audience.
    • Customer Reviews: Build trust and credibility by showcasing positive reviews from satisfied customers.
    • Insights and Analytics: Gain valuable data about how customers find and interact with your profile, enabling you to refine your strategies for optimal results.

Common Reasons for Google Business Profile Verification Issues

Let’s explore the common culprits behind those frustrating Google Business Profile won’t verify moments:

1. Incorrect or Inconsistent Business Information

One of the most common reasons for verification failure is providing inaccurate or inconsistent business information. Google’s verification process relies on matching the information you provide with what’s publicly available.

Solutions:

  • Double-Check Everything: Carefully review every detail you entered during the setup process, ensuring it precisely matches your official business records, website, and other online platforms. Pay attention to:
    • Business name (ensure it matches exactly, including any abbreviations or legal suffixes)
    • Address (use the complete and officially registered address)
    • Phone number (use the primary contact number for your business)
    • Website URL (ensure it’s correct and accessible)
  • Consistency Is Key: Ensure your business information displayed on your website, social media profiles, and other online directories is consistent with what you provided on your GBP. Any discrepancies can raise red flags for Google.

2. Recent Changes to Business Information

Recently updating your business information, such as your address, phone number, or business name, can sometimes create confusion during verification.

Solutions:

  • Be Patient: Allow Google some time (usually a few days to a week) to update its records and recognize the changes you’ve made. If your profile remains unverified after this period, proceed to the following steps.
  • Contact Google Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to Google Business Profile support. They can help investigate and resolve any discrepancies causing the verification delay.

3. Google Can’t Find Your Business

Sometimes, Google might have difficulty finding your business, especially if it’s new, has limited online presence, or is located in a remote or newly developed area.

Solutions:

  • Strengthen Your Online Presence: Create or update your business website and social media profiles. This helps establish your online credibility and makes it easier for Google to verify your information. Make sure your website is properly optimized for search engines and clearly displays your business name, address, and phone number.
  • Get Listed on Relevant Online Directories: Submit your business information to reputable online directories like Yelp, Bing Places, Apple Maps, and industry-specific directories. This helps broaden your online footprint and increases the chances of Google finding and verifying your business.

4. You’re Not Using a Verifiable Address

Google Business Profile verification primarily relies on confirming your business’s physical location. Therefore, using an address that doesn’t meet Google’s guidelines can hinder verification.

Solutions:

  • Understand Verifiable Addresses: Google requires businesses to have a physical address that’s publicly accessible and where customers can visit during your stated business hours. P.O. boxes, virtual offices, or co-working spaces that don’t have clear signage or dedicated business areas are generally not accepted.
  • Use a Service Area: If you operate a service-area business (SAB) that serves customers at their locations rather than a fixed storefront, you can set up a service area on your GBP. This allows you to specify the areas you cover without displaying a physical address. Ensure your service area is accurately defined and aligns with your actual service radius.

5. Issues with Your Verification Method

Google offers various verification methods, each with its own set of requirements and potential hiccups. Let’s address these methods and their associated solutions:

a. Postcard Verification:

This is the most common method, where Google mails a postcard with a unique verification code to your business address. However, delays or issues with postal services can sometimes occur.

Solutions:
  • Be Patient and Monitor Your Mailbox: Postcards usually arrive within 5-14 business days. Double-check your mailbox regularly, including spam or junk folders, to avoid missing it. If it doesn’t arrive within the expected timeframe, you can request a new postcard through your GBP dashboard (ensure your address is accurate before doing so).
  • Track Your Postcard: Some regions and verification scenarios offer the option to track your postcard’s status through your GBP dashboard. This can provide insights into its estimated delivery date and help you monitor its progress.

b. Phone Verification:

Google offers phone verification for certain businesses, where you receive an automated call with a verification code. However, this method might not be available for all businesses or regions.

Solutions:
  • Double-Check Your Phone Number: Ensure the phone number you provided is correct and can receive calls. Avoid using online-only or VoIP numbers that might not be recognized by Google’s system.
  • Check for Call Blocking: Temporarily disable any call blocking features or apps that might prevent the automated verification call from reaching your phone.

c. Email Verification:

Some businesses might be eligible for email verification, where Google sends a verification link to the email address associated with your GBP.

Solutions:
  • Check Your Spam Folder: Thoroughly check your email inbox’s spam or junk folder for the verification email. It might be mistakenly filtered there.
  • Add Google to Your Contacts: Adding noreply@google.com to your email contacts can prevent future verification emails from ending up in your spam folder.

d. Instant Verification:

Google might offer instant verification for businesses already verified with Google Search Console or those with strong online authority and consistent information across various platforms. This method typically doesn’t require additional steps.

Solutions:
  • If you have access to Google Search Console and it’s for the same domain name listed on your Google Business Profile, you should be instantly verified. If not, you’ll need to choose another method.

6. You’re Using a Suspended Account

If your Google Business Profile was previously suspended due to policy violations or suspicious activity, you’ll need to resolve those issues and request reinstatement before you can verify.

Solutions:

  • Review Google’s Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with Google Business Profile guidelines to understand why your account might have been suspended. Common reasons include using prohibited content, misrepresenting your business, or engaging in spammy practices.
  • Rectify the Issues: Carefully review your profile and make necessary changes to ensure it complies with Google’s guidelines. This might involve removing inappropriate content, updating inaccurate information, or adjusting your business description.
  • Request Reinstatement: Once you’ve addressed the issues, you can submit a reinstatement request through your GBP dashboard. Be prepared to provide detailed information about the steps you’ve taken to comply with Google’s policies.

7. Multiple Businesses at the Same Address

Having multiple businesses operating from the same address can sometimes create verification challenges, especially if the businesses are in the same industry or have similar names. Google’s algorithms might flag this as a potential duplicate listing.

Solutions:

  • Differentiate Your Businesses: Clearly distinguish each business with unique names, descriptions, and branding elements. Highlight the specific products, services, or target audiences that set each business apart.
  • Provide Additional Verification Information: If prompted, be prepared to provide additional documentation to verify the legitimacy of each business, such as separate business licenses, registration certificates, or utility bills.
  • Contact Google Support: If you encounter difficulties, reach out to Google Business Profile support. Explain the situation and provide any supporting documentation to demonstrate the legitimacy of each business operating from the same address.

Still Having Trouble? Don’t Give Up!

Getting your Google Business Profile verified is crucial for unlocking its full potential and maximizing your online visibility. While encountering verification issues can be frustrating, following these solutions and remaining patient and persistent will help you overcome these hurdles and take control of your business’s online presence.

Remember that Google constantly updates its algorithms and verification processes. If you’re still facing challenges, refer to Google’s official support resources or consider seeking assistance from experienced digital marketing professionals who can provide tailored guidance and support.

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

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.