Verifying your business with Google is an essential step that cannot be skipped anymore. It is even a prerequisite if you want your business to show up on Google Maps, in local search results, or the Local Pack. If you do not verify, your business profile will not be seen by potential customers looking for your services.
This comprehensive guide is packed with information about all the methods of Google Business Profile verification. It tells you how to verify Google Business Profile, which way suits your business best, how to solve problems related to verification, and how to make the process quicker.
If you are a small business owner, a local SEO consultant, or a digital marketing agency, the tips in this article will definitely assist you to successfully verify your Google Business Profile and get higher Google rankings much faster.
What Is Google Business Profile Verification?
Google Business Profile verification is simply the method Google uses to check and be certain that you actually own or are the manager of a business.
Following verification, once your business verified becomes eligible to appear in:
- Google Search results
- Google Maps listings
- Local 3 Pack results
- Voice search queries
The goal of verification is to protect users from fake or misleading business listings and ensure trust across Google’s local ecosystem.
If you do not accomplish Google Business Profile verification methods, your listing is going to be unverified and will not be visible to the public.
Why Google Business Profile Verification Is Important?
After you verify, this is what happens:
- Your business becomes publicly visible on Google.
- Now, you can change business information.
- You have the option to reply to customers reviews.
- You will be able to view your GBP Performance statics and data
Your local SEO performance will be significantly elevated The local businesses that go through the methods to verify their Google Business Profile are very likely to be on Google’s Local Pack and get potential customer’s phone calls, website visits, and physical store visits.
All Google Business Profile Verification Methods (Explained)
Google offers different methods to verify a Google Business Profile. Depending on your business type, location, and account setup, different methods may be available to you.
1. Postcard Verification
This is the generally most used method.
How it works:
- Google sends a postcard with a verification code
- Estimated Delivery time: 5–14 days.
- You enter the code in your Google Business Profile dashboard
Ideal for:
New businesses, brick and mortar stores, and service area businesses
Pros:
Too reliable.
Strong trust signal for Google.
Cons:
It’s the slowest way.
Delivery issues possible.
2. Phone Verification
Some businesses may qualify for immediate verification through phone call or text message.
Steps to verify Google Business Profile by phone:
- Choose phone verification
- Get a call or SMS
- Input the code
Best for:
Businesses that are well, recognized and have a consistent online presence.
Pros:
Fast
Convenient
Cons:
Not available for all businesses.
3. Email Verification
If eligible, Google sends a verification code to your business email address.
Best for:
Businesses with domain-based email addresses (not Gmail)
Pros:
Very fast
No waiting time
Cons:
Limited availability
4. Video Verification
One of the newest Google Business Profile verification methods.
You must record a video showing:
Business location
Business signage
Inside workspace
Proof of management (computer, POS, etc.)
Best for:
Service businesses, remote offices, hybrid businesses
Pros:
No waiting for mail
High trust
Cons:
Requires careful recording
Can fail if guidelines aren’t followed.
5. Live Video Call Verification
A Google agent joins a live video call to confirm your business.
Best for:
High-risk industries
Businesses failing other methods
Pros:
Very secure
Fast resolution
Cons:
Requires appointment scheduling
Best Verification Method for Google Business Profile
Each method has its pros and cons.
Phone and email are the fastest ways, but video verification and live video calls are also quite effective. Postcard is the slowest method as it depends on the postal service but it is the most reliable one.
The best Google Business Profile verification method for you depends on your business type and Google’s eligibility rules.
How to Verify Google Business Profile (Step-By-Step)
Go to Google Business Profile Manager
Add or claim your business
Enter accurate business details
Choose your available verification method
Complete verification
Wait for Google confirmation
Once approved, your business becomes visible in search results.
Google Business Profile Verification Code – What To Do
If using postcard, phone, or email, you will receive a Google Business Profile verification code.
Important tips:
Do not edit business information while waiting
Do not request multiple codes
Keep the code private
If the code expires, request a new one.
Most Common Google Business Profile Verification Issues & Solutions
Google Business Profile Verification Not Working
The following situations might cause this problem:
- The address is changed in the process of verification.
- Verification Code expires or invalid.
- Multiple listings exists.
- The system detects suspicious activity.
Fix:
- Stop making changes.
- Reach out to Google support.
- Use video or live verification.
Google Verify My Business Without Postcard
If you are unable to receive mail:
- Upgrade your website and citations
- Make sure NAP is consistent
- Put more pictures of your business
- Try asking for video verification
You can find a lot of businesses who verify successfully without postcard nowadays by just simply using the video methods.
How Verification Impacts
Local SEO Rankings
Verified profiles:
- Rank higher in Maps
- Appear in more local queries
- Build trust with Google’s algorithm
- Attract more customer engagement
Completing the right Google Business Profile verification methods is the foundation of any successful local SEO strategy.
Advanced Tips to Speed Up Verification
Use domain email
Add business photos
Build citations before verification
Keep business data consistent
Avoid multiple profile attempts
FAQs – Google Business Profile Verification
How long does verification take?
From minutes (phone/email) to 14 days (postcard).
Can I change details during verification?
No. Changes reset the process.
Can I verify multiple locations?
Yes, but each location requires separate verification.
What if my verification fails?
Use video or live verification.
Final Thoughts
Successfully verifying your Google Business Profile with the appropriate methods is essential for local search success. Going through this guide will enable you to verify quicker, achieve higher rankings, and attract more customers, whether you’re creating your very first listing or repairing a failed verification.
If you require expert help for Google Business Profile verification or to boost your local SEO, Shiftdigitally is at your service to help you become the local market leader.
