How to verify your business on Google: create your Google Business Profile, choose a verification method, and fix common problems when the code doesn't arrive.
Want customers to find your company on Google Search and Google Maps? You need to create a Google Business Profile and verify that you are the owner or an authorized representative. This guide explains what to prepare, how to create the profile, which verification methods exist, and what to do if verification fails.
Why verification matters
Until a profile is verified, it has limited features. Your business may appear less often in Search and Maps, and you cannot fully manage details, reply to reviews, or add photos. Verification tells Google that the information about your business is genuine.
What to prepare first
- A Google account (preferably a separate work account).
- Your exact business name, the same as on your sign and documents.
- Your address, or a service area if you travel to customers.
- Your phone number and website.
- Your main business category.
- Photos: storefront or sign, entrance, interior, products, or your team at work.
How to create your profile, step by step
- Open Google Business Profile and sign in with your Google account.
- Enter your business name. Do not add extra keywords to the name, as this violates Google's guidelines.
- Choose your primary category.
- Enter your address. If customers do not visit you, choose to serve customers within a service area instead.
- Add your phone number, website, and opening hours.
- Choose a verification method and follow the on-screen instructions.
Button names and the order of steps in Google's interface can change, so follow the prompts in your own account.
Google Business verification methods
Google decides which options you see, depending on your business type and country:
- Phone call or text message to your business number.
- Email.
- Video verification: you may be asked to show your sign, premises, equipment, or documents.
- Postcard with a code sent by mail to your business address.
If a method is not in the list, it is not available for your business. Choose one of the options Google offers.
Common reasons verification fails
- The business name does not match your real name (extra words or different spelling).
- There is no sign or proof that the business operates at that address.
- A virtual office or PO box is used instead of a real place of work.
- A profile with the same name or address already exists (duplicate).
- The profile contains information that breaks Google Business Profile rules.
What to do if the code doesn't arrive or verification is rejected
- Check that your address, phone number, and business name are correct.
- Do not create a new profile as a replacement. This can cause duplicates and suspension.
- Correct the details and request verification again.
- If the problem continues, contact Google Business Profile support.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to create and verify a profile?
Creating a Google Business Profile is free for business owners. Only professional help with setup may cost money.
Can I verify a business without an office?
If you travel to customers, you can use a service area instead of showing an address. The available verification methods still depend on Google's decision.
Is there a blue tick on a Google Business Profile?
Google presents verification as confirmation that you can manage the profile, not as a public blue badge like on social networks. What verification gives you is control over your listing.
Can I buy an already verified profile?
You should not. Such schemes break Google's rules and the profile can be suspended.
Do I need a website?
A website is not required, but it helps people learn more about your business.
Need help?
If you would rather not do it yourself, I can help you create a Google Business Profile, fill in the details correctly, and go through verification: Create a Google My Business profile.
This article was prepared with the help of AI.