Local SEO
How to Verify a Google Business Profile (Every Method Explained)
What verification is, which methods Google may offer you, and how to avoid the mistakes that send you back to the start.
Verification proves to Google that you’re authorized to manage a business. Until a profile is verified you can’t fully control its information or reply to reviews, and Google says only verified businesses can show their business information on Maps and Search.
You don’t choose the method: Google says verification methods are determined automatically and can’t be changed. This guide explains each one so you’re ready for whichever you’re offered.
Short answer: To verify a Google Business Profile, sign in to the Google Account that manages it, find the profile (search “my business”), select Get verified and follow the method Google offers: phone or text, email, live video call, video recording or postcard. Google chooses the method based on your business type, public information, region and hours. Reviews take up to 5 business days.
Key Takeaways
- Google picks the verification method; you can’t change it, but you can try any options shown.
- Methods can include phone or text, email, live video call, video recording and postcard.
- Google says verification reviews take up to 5 business days, occasionally longer.
- While waiting for a postcard, don’t edit your name, address or category, and don’t request a new code.
- Verifying your website in Search Console can sometimes allow instant verification.
Before you start
- Use a Google Account the business controls long term, not a personal account of a staff member or agency.
- Check the business name, address or service area, phone number and category are correct; changing them mid-verification can cause problems.
- Search for your business name and city, or “my business”, to find an existing profile. If one exists, claim it rather than creating a duplicate.
The verification methods
| Method | How it works | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Phone or text | Google calls or texts the business number with a code | Automated phone menus (IVR) won’t receive the code |
| Google emails the address shown on the verification screen | You must be able to use that exact address | |
| Live video call | You show your location and proof of management on a call | Only during your business hours; not available to every business |
| Video recording | You record a short video showing the location and proof you manage it | If rejected you’ll see a “Review issues” notice |
| Postcard | Google mails a code to your business address | Most codes arrive within 14 days and expire after 30 days |
Google says the options depend on your business type, public information, region and business hours, and that some businesses need to verify with more than one method. Where video verification is offered, Google recommends it.
Step by step
- Sign in to the Google Account that manages the profile.
- Search “my business” on Google, or open the profile in Google Maps.
- Select Get verified and choose one of the methods shown.
- Complete the steps: enter the code, finish the call, or upload the recording.
- Wait for Google’s review, up to 5 business days. You’ll get a confirmation email when you’re verified.
Keep your code private. Google says it will never ask you for your verification code.
Postcard verification: the common mistakes
- Editing the profile while you wait. Google says changing the business name, address or category makes the mailed code stop working.
- Requesting another code. Google says this invalidates the code already in the mail and makes the process longer.
- Waiting too long. Codes expire after 30 days.
Instant and bulk verification
Google says some profiles are verified instantly when the website is already verified in Google Search Console. Businesses with 10 or more locations of the same business can apply for bulk verification; Google says agencies managing many different businesses, and service-area businesses, aren’t eligible.
After verification
- Complete every field using our Business Profile optimization checklist.
- Add your agency or staff as managers instead of sharing the owner login.
- Expect re-verification if you later change your name, address or category.
If verification fails or the “Get verified” button comes back, see Google Business Profile verification problems.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Google Business Profile verification take?
Google says reviews take up to 5 business days after you complete the steps, occasionally longer. Postcards usually arrive within 14 days.
Can I choose my verification method?
No. Google determines the methods automatically, but you can try any of the options shown on your profile.
Why can’t I verify by phone?
Phone verification isn’t offered to every business, and automated phone menus can’t receive the code. Use another method shown on your profile.
Can an agency verify my business for me?
An agency can help, but the profile should be owned by an account your business controls, with the agency added as a manager.
Do I need to verify again after changes?
Possibly. Google says editing categories can trigger re-verification, and name or address changes often do too.
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: Find your business on Google
- Google Business Profile Help: Guidelines for representing your business on Google
Last reviewed October 14, 2026.
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