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Claim & Verify Your Business (All Methods)

Purpose

Claim ownership of your Google Business Profile and complete verification so you can edit information, access insights, and ensure your profile is eligible for full features.

Prerequisites

  • You can access the business in business.google.com with your Google account
  • If the business appears Unclaimed, you will claim it first; if Claimed, Not Verified, proceed directly to verification

Steps

1) Claim your listing (if Unclaimed)

  • Go to business.google.com and search for your business
  • If shown as Unclaimed, click Claim this business and follow the on‑screen steps to associate it with your Google account

2) Start verification

  • In GBP, open Get verified / Verification
  • Google will show one or more verification options depending on the business, history, and risk signals

3) Complete one of the available methods

  • Phone/SMS: Receive a code and enter it in GBP
  • Email: Receive a code at the business email and enter it in GBP
  • Video (live or recorded): Show exterior signage, interior workspace, access proof (keys, utilities, etc.). Follow Google’s script carefully
  • Postcard: Google mails a code (5–14 days). Enter it in GBP when it arrives

4) Wait for status update

  • Status typically changes to Verified, Under Review, or Rejected
  • If Under Review, no action needed—wait for Google to complete checks

Troubleshooting

  • “Business already claimed”
    • Another owner/manager controls the listing. Use Google’s Request access flow to send an ownership/manager request from your account
  • Verification rejected
    • Re‑submit with clearer proof: exterior signage, interior shots, access proof (keys, utility bill, lease). Ensure the business name/address match the signs and documents
  • No verification options available
    • This can occur for new businesses, sensitive categories, or after recent edits. Wait 48–72 hours and check again, or contact Google Support from the GBP help menu
  • Postcard never arrives
    • Re‑request the postcard and confirm the address is exactly correct (suite/floor if applicable)

Notes

  • During Video verification, prepare your script: outside → signage → entrance → interior → proof of control
  • Keep business documents handy (registration, utility bills) in case Google requests them
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