GBP Setup & Verification Playbook

Before your business can own local search, you need a verified Google Business Profile (GBP). Verification is Google’s way of proving your business is real, tied to a legitimate location, and eligible to appear in local results like the Map Pack.

A sloppy setup can delay visibility, or worse, trigger suspensions. This playbook shows you how to get it right the first time.

Step 1: Eligibility Check

Not every entity qualifies for a GBP. Make sure your business meets Google’s requirements:

You must have in-person contact with customers (storefront or service area).

Online-only businesses are not eligible.

Home-based businesses can qualify but should hide their address if they don’t serve customers there.

Step 2: Add Core Business Info

Business Name: Use your real-world business name, no extra keywords.

Business Category: Select the primary category that best describes your business. (Example: “Hair Restoration Clinic” vs. just “Clinic.”)

Location/Service Area: Add a physical address if you serve customers there. If you serve customers at their location, define your service areas instead.

Contact Info: Phone number and website URL.

Hours: Accurate opening/closing times.

Step 3: Verify Ownership

Google requires proof that you’re the legitimate business owner or manager. The options are:

Postcard (most common): A code is mailed to your business address (arrives in ~5 days).

Phone or SMS: A code is sent instantly to your number.

Email: Code sent to a business email domain.

Video Recording: Film a guided walk-through of your business signage, location, and proof of operations.

Live Video Call: A Google rep confirms your business in real time.

Pro tip: The method available to you depends on your business type, category, region, and Google’s current risk checks.

Step 4: Confirm & Publish

Enter your code in the Google Business Profile Manager.

Once verified, your profile can go live in Maps and Search.

Use the dashboard to track performance and respond to customer interactions.

Step 5: Maintain Accuracy

Google can suspend or unverify profiles that go stale or look suspicious. Avoid that by:

Keeping hours, address, and phone number current.

Regularly adding photos, posts, and updates.

Ensuring your business name matches real-world signage.

Ready to Verify and Win Local Search?

Getting your Google Business Profile set up and verified is the first step toward showing up where your customers are searching. But setup alone won’t get you into the Map Pack, consistent optimization, reviews, and data accuracy are what drive results.

If you want expert guidance (and to avoid the headaches of suspension or rejection), we’ll handle the setup and verification for you, and build the foundation for long-term local visibility.
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