Local SEO
Google Business Profile Verification Problems: Causes and Fixes
The most common verification problems, what each one means, and the fix Google recommends.
Verification problems are frustrating because they block everything else: until a profile is verified you can’t fully control it, and Google says only verified businesses show their information on Maps and Search.
Most problems come from a handful of causes. Work through the ones below; if you haven’t started yet, read how to verify a Google Business Profile first.
Short answer: Common Google Business Profile verification problems include codes that never arrive (often because an automated phone menu blocks the call), postcard codes invalidated by edits or a second request, expired codes, rejected video recordings and the “Get verified” button reappearing. Google’s fixes: try another method shown, avoid edits while waiting, follow the Review issues steps, and contact support if no method works.
Key Takeaways
- Phone codes can’t get through automated phone menus (IVR); use a direct line or another method.
- Editing your name, address or category, or requesting a new code, breaks a postcard code already in the mail.
- A “Review issues” notice after a video means the video wasn’t accepted; follow the on-screen steps.
- If “Get verified” comes back, Google couldn’t fully verify the business; re-verify, trying other methods if shown.
- If none of the methods work, Google suggests contacting support.
Problem-by-problem fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Phone or text code never arrives | The number goes through an automated menu (IVR), or can’t receive texts | Use a number answered directly, or pick another method shown |
| Email code never arrives | You can’t access the address on the verification screen | Use another method, or check spam for that address |
| Postcard code doesn’t work | The name, address or category was edited, or a new code was requested | Request a fresh code and change nothing until it’s entered |
| Postcard never arrives | Codes usually arrive within 14 days; the mailing address may be wrong | Check the mailing address, then request a new code once |
| Code expired | Codes expire after 30 days | Request a new code and enter it promptly |
| “Review issues” after a video | The video wasn’t accepted | Select Review issues and follow the on-screen steps |
| “Get verified” button reappears | Google couldn’t completely verify the business | Re-verify; try other methods if several are shown |
Video verification tips
Google asks you to show your location and proof that you manage the business. In practice that means one continuous recording that shows:
- Outside: the street, signage and the entrance, so the location can be matched to your address.
- Inside or at work: equipment, products or a branded vehicle that shows you operate the business.
- Proof of management: for example, unlocking the premises or showing business documents.
Live video calls only run during your listed business hours, and Google says they aren’t available to every business.
When the problem isn’t verification
If the profile was verified before and has now disappeared, it may have been suspended or disabled for a guidelines issue rather than unverified. See what to do if your Business Profile is suspended.
Duplicate profiles are another common blocker: if someone else already manages a profile for your business, use Google’s request-ownership process rather than creating a new profile.
Getting help
Google suggests trying every method available to you and contacting support if you still can’t verify. Google’s verification help page has the current steps for each method.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Google keep asking me to verify again?
Google says the Get verified button reappears when it couldn’t completely verify the business. Major edits such as name, address or category changes can also trigger re-verification.
How long is a postcard code valid?
Google says verification codes sent by mail expire after 30 days.
Can I speed up verification?
Choosing video where offered, keeping details unchanged while you wait, and having your website verified in Search Console can help; Google says some profiles verified in Search Console are verified instantly.
Should I create a new profile if verification fails?
No. Fix the issue on the existing profile; duplicates can cause further problems.
Want your Business Profile set up properly?
We review your profile against Google’s guidelines, complete and correct your information, and give you a simple routine to keep it current.
Sources
- Google Business Profile Help: Verify your business on Google
- Google Business Profile Help: Fix suspended or disabled profiles
- Google Business Profile Help: Guidelines for representing your business on Google
Last reviewed October 14, 2026.
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