How to Verify Your Business on Google
To verify your business on Google, open the correct Business Profile and complete one of the verification methods shown. Prepare the evidence requested for your business rather than assuming every profile has the same options.
This guide explains what verification means, how to prepare, and what to do if Google needs more information.
What is Google business verification?
Verification is Google’s process for checking that you are authorised to manage a business profile. It is separate from adding a place to Maps.
For example, a shop may already have a public listing when a new owner requests management access. The owner still needs to follow the verification or ownership steps shown.
If you have not found or created the correct profile, start with adding your business to Google.
Which verification methods can Google offer?
Google determines verification methods automatically. Your options can depend on the business and region, and more than one check may be required.
| Method | What you do |
|---|---|
| Phone or text | Receive and enter a code |
| Follow instructions sent to the available address | |
| Video recording | Record business evidence through your profile |
| Live video call | Show the business to a support representative |
| Enter a code sent to the business, when offered |
Some profiles may be verified instantly. Do not rely on a method that is not shown in your account.
1. Find the right profile and read the prompt
Sign in to the Google account associated with the business. Search for the business name and town or open your management view.
Check the selected location before starting, particularly if you manage several branches. Open Get verified or the verification notice and read the instructions.
For example, a manager responsible for two shops should confirm the address before recording a video. Evidence from the other branch will not explain the location under review.
2. Prepare what the offered method needs
For a code-based method, make sure you can receive the code using the contact option shown. For a video method, plan how you will show the actual business and your authority to manage it.
Have your device ready, check the internet connection, and read the evidence requirements before starting. This lets you complete the process without searching for access keys or business details halfway through.
Follow the prompts in your own account. Never give a verification code to someone claiming they can improve your ranking.
3. If asked for video, plan what to show
Google’s video guidance requires evidence of location, business activity, and management. What you show depends on the business type.
For a shop, plan a route that shows the surrounding area, permanent business sign, and access to an employee-only area. For a business that travels to customers, plan to show local identifiers, work equipment, and access to business assets.
For example, a locksmith could demonstrate access to a branded work vehicle and the tools used for jobs. A retail manager could show the shop sign and unlock a staff-only storage area.
Record through the profile on a mobile device. Google requires a continuous, unedited recording of at least 30 seconds. Avoid other people’s faces and private information, including bank, tax, identity, and customer details.
Review the instructions for your business type before uploading. A general tour may not show all the evidence needed.
4. Submit and check the status
Finish the steps shown and watch for a status update or request for more information. Keep the account email accessible so you can see Google’s messages.
Google says verification review can take up to five business days, with longer waits possible. If mail is offered, most codes arrive within 14 days; delivery and review are separate stages.
While waiting for a mailed code, avoid changing the business name, address, or category. Requesting another mail code invalidates the previous one.
For current timing and next steps, use Google’s verification guidance and the notice in your account.
What if your video is not accepted?
Open Review issues if it appears and read the missing evidence. Fix that specific issue before making another recording.
For example, if the sign was not readable, plan a clearer view of the real permanent sign. If management access was missing, show access that a normal customer would not have.
Do not change the facts of the business to make the evidence fit. Check that your profile accurately represents the location and services before trying again.
If the available method still cannot be completed, use the help or support option in Google’s verification guidance. Keep verification problems separate from a suspension: a suspension notice has its own resolution process.
What if Google asks you to verify again?
Changes to business details can lead to another check. Follow the new prompt and keep the information accurate.
For example, after moving a shop, you may need evidence of the new location. Update the correct existing profile rather than creating a replacement simply to avoid a check.
If several people manage the account, tell them a verification request is in progress. This helps avoid unrelated edits while you are following the instructions.
What should you do after verification?
Check that your hours, contact details, services, and location information are accurate. Open your website link and confirm that customers reach the right branch.
Then use the Maps optimization guide for ongoing improvements. Verification is a setup check; maintaining useful information is a continuing task.