Complete Guide to Claiming and Verifying Google Business Location

Claiming your Google Business Profile is the first step to boosting your visibility and earning customer trust. Follow these simple steps to ensure your business is listed accurately and ready to attract more local customers.

Step 1: Log in to Google Business Profile

Start by heading to Google Business Profile and signing in with your Google account. Don’t have one? No problem—it only takes a few minutes to create one.

Step 2: Search for Your Business

Type your business name into the search bar. If it appears, select it. If not, click the option to create a new listing. Make sure the name matches what you’ve used across other platforms to maintain consistency—this helps Google trust your profile.

Step 3: Claim Ownership

If your business is listed, click “Claim this Business.” Follow the prompts to provide ownership details. In cases where someone else has claimed your listing, you can request an ownership transfer.

How to Verify Your Google Business Location?

Verification is what makes your business profile trustworthy and visible to customers. Google provides multiple verification options to suit your needs, whether it’s via postcard, phone, or email. 

We’ll break down each method so you can choose the one that works best and ensure your business gets the attention it deserves.

Postcard Verification

This is the most common method, typically used by newly established businesses, to confirm the accuracy of their physical location. Here’s how it works:

1. Submit your business address for verification.
2. Google sends you a postcard with a verification code (typically within 5–12 days).
3. Log in to your Google Business Profile and enter the code.

Phone or Email Verification

This method, available for select businesses, allows verification through phone or email, providing an instant code to confirm your listing.

To verify your Google Business location via phone or email:

1. Sign in to your Google Business Profile.
2. Choose the location you wish to verify.
3. Click on Verify Now.
4. Select either the Phone or Email option.
5. Follow the instructions provided on the screen to complete verification. 

Instant Verification

If your business is verified in Google Search Console, you may qualify for instant verification. Simply log in to your GBP account and select the option to verify using your existing Search Console verification. This process links the two accounts seamlessly while verifying your Google business location.

Related Reads: How To Use GBP For Local Retail Events 

Troubleshooting Tips

Even with Google’s streamlined process, verification hiccups can happen. Here’s how to tackle common issues:

• Didn’t receive the postcard:
  • Check your mailbox thoroughly, as postcards can sometimes be delayed or misplaced.
  • If it doesn’t arrive within 12 days, log in to your Google Business dashboard and request a new code.
• Address formatting issues:
  • Ensure your address is accurate and follows the standard format used by local postal services.
  • Avoid abbreviations or inconsistent details (e.g., “Street” vs “St.”) to prevent errors.
• Phone or email verification problems:
  • Ensure the phone number or email linked to your profile is active and accessible.
  • Double-check for typos or outdated contact information that might block communication.
• General issues with verification:
  • Verify that your business category is eligible for phone or email verification.
  • For further assistance, contact Google Business support to resolve technical or eligibility problems. 

Taking these proactive steps can help you overcome verification challenges quickly and get your business profile up and running.