What you need
- A Google Account, ideally using your business email
- Your business name, address, phone and hours exactly as customers see them
- Your website address
- Five to ten good photos of your business, work or team
Steps
Search for an existing listing
Search for your business name and city on Google Maps. Google sometimes creates a listing from public information, or a past owner may have made one. If you find it and it is unverified, click Claim this business or Own this business, then follow the prompts. If someone else already manages it, you can request ownership from the same screen.
Create your profile
If there is no listing, sign in to your Google Account and go to business.google.com/create. Type your business name exactly as it appears on your sign and website. Do not add keywords, slogans or city names that are not part of your real name. Google’s guidelines forbid this, and keyword stuffing can get a profile suspended.
Pick the right primary category
Search for the category that best describes your main business, such as Plumber or Bakery, and select it. Your primary category has a big effect on which searches you show up for, so choose the most specific match. After setup, you can add a few secondary categories for other core services. Keep the list short and accurate.
Set your location or service area
Google asks whether customers can visit you. Choose Yes if you have a staffed location during business hours, and enter the address. Choose No if you visit customers instead, such as a cleaner or contractor, and your home address stays hidden. Then add up to 20 cities or ZIP codes you serve. Google suggests staying within about two hours of driving.
Add your phone and website
Enter a local phone number that rings at your business and that you control. Add the website page that best represents this location, usually your homepage or a location page. Make sure your name, address and phone number match your website and other directory listings exactly. That consistency helps Google trust your information.
Verify your business
Google decides which verification methods you can use. Options may include a phone call or text, email, a live video call or a recorded video showing your signage, equipment and proof you manage the business. Some businesses still get a postcard by mail. Reviews usually take up to five business days. Avoid editing your name, address or category while verification is pending.
Complete every section
Once verified, open your profile and select Edit profile. Add your hours, including holiday hours, a clear business description, your services or products with short descriptions, and attributes such as accessibility options. Upload a logo, a cover photo and real photos of your work, team and location. Profiles with complete details and fresh photos tend to get more calls and direction requests.
Ask for and reply to reviews
Reviews are one of the biggest local ranking factors. Use the Ask for reviews option in your profile to get a short link, and share it with happy customers by email or text after a job. Reply to every review, good or bad, politely and promptly. Never offer discounts or gifts in exchange for reviews, which breaks Google’s rules.
Keep it fresh
Check your profile at least once a month. Update hours before holidays, add new photos, and share posts about offers, events or news. Look at the performance section to see how many people called, visited your website or asked for directions. Watch for suggested edits from Google or the public, and correct anything that is wrong.
Common Mistakes
- Adding extra keywords or a city name to the business name, which breaks Google’s guidelines and can lead to suspension.
- Using a PO box or virtual office as the address, which is not allowed and often fails verification.
- Creating a second profile for the same location instead of claiming the existing one, which splits reviews and can get both suspended.
FAQ
Does a Google Business Profile cost anything?
No. Creating and managing a Google Business Profile is free. Google may offer paid ads that appear alongside listings, but they are optional. Be cautious of calls from companies claiming your listing will be removed unless you pay. Google does not charge to verify or keep your profile.
Can I list my home-based business without showing my address?
Yes. When Google asks whether customers can visit you, choose No and add the areas you serve instead. Your address is used only for verification and stays hidden. If you already show an address, go to Edit profile, then Location, and turn off the option to show your business address.
Why was my verification rejected?
Common reasons include a business name with extra keywords, an address that is a PO box or virtual office, or a video that does not clearly show signage and proof you run the business. Check that your details follow Google’s guidelines, fix anything flagged under Review issues, and try again with the method offered.