Key highlights
- Verify Google My Business using only the verification options shown on the screen, because the system selects them automatically.
- Record a single, unedited video walkthrough and show the street, signage, workspace and proof of access.
- Use phone, SMS or email verification only when offered and enter the verification code immediately to complete that step.
- Plan postcard verification around delivery timing and code rules and avoid requesting a new postcard too early because it cancels the previous code.
- Fix verification failures by resolving signage, address and business info mismatches first, then retry or use official help and ownership request flows.
When customers search “near me,” they trust verified listings first. That is why verifying Google My Business still matters for local SEO in 2026.
A profile that stays unverified can struggle to show up in Google search and maps. A profile that gets verified can earn more visibility, more calls and more store visits.
This guide walks through every Google My Business (previously, Google Business Profile) verification method available right now. You will learn video verification, phone and email options, Search Console instant verification, postcard verification and what to do when verification fails.
What is a Google Business Profile and why does verification matter?
A Google Business Profile is your business’s official presence on Google Search and Google Maps. When someone searches for your business or a nearby service, it can display business hours, address, phone number, photos and reviews.
Verification is the process where Google confirms you’re authorized to manage a specific business at a specific location. Until you complete verification, Google restricts what you can do with your listing and limits its visibility to potential customers.
Here’s what verification unlocks:
- Edit business information, including name, category and core details
- Respond to customer reviews publicly
- Create posts for offers, events and updates
- Message customers directly from the profile
- View insights on how customers find the business on Search and Maps
- Become eligible for the Local Pack map results that show three businesses
Unverified profiles often don’t appear in local search results at all. Even when they do, they display incomplete business info and give you no way to correct errors or engage with reviews.
Verification also protects your business. Once verified, competitors or spammers can’t easily claim your listing or make unauthorized changes to your business information.
Also read: How to Manage your Google My Business Listing from your Control Panel
Once you know the value, the next step is choosing the verification method shown for your listing.
What Google Business Profile verification methods can you use in 2026?
This section explains how to verify Google Business Profile in 2026 and verify Google My Business using the options shown. Start from the Search results or the Google Maps app, then open the profile and select Get verified.
The platform selects verification options automatically, and it does not let you change them. Some listings need more than one method to complete the verification process.
The system bases the choice on business type, public info, region and business hours.
| Name | Purpose | Benefit |
| Video verification | Prove the business exists and operates | Confirms location, operations and control in one step |
| Phone verification or SMS | Receive a verification code on the listed number | Finishes fast when the phone option appears |
| Email verification | Confirm through the email shown on the verification screen | Avoids mail delays when eligible |
| Live video call | Show proof to a support representative in real time | Helps when other methods fail or do not appear |
| Postcard verification | Receive a mailed code at the business address | Works when address proof matters |
| Instant verification | Use Google Search Console trust signals | Can skip extra steps in select cases |
| Bulk verification | Verify multiple locations for one brand | Reduces repeat work for chains |
First, focus on video because it appears most often during verification.
1. Video verification as the default option
Video verification is a common method, and the platform may recommend it when the business is eligible.
Record the video inside the verification flow on a mobile device. Record one continuous take with no edits, because offline uploads do not work.
Follow these non-negotiable rules:
- Record a video that runs at least 30 seconds
- Record and upload the video from a mobile device
- Avoid bank, tax and ID numbers, private details and faces
Plan for a review time of up to 5 business days after submission, because that is the typical Google Business Profile verification time.
2. Phone, email and instant verification options
Some listings qualify for faster paths, so verification can finish in minutes. This option often answers “how to get verified on Google My Business” quickly.
Phone or SMS verification sends a verification code and code entry completes that step. IVR systems won’t get the code, so use a phone line that can directly receive calls or texts.
Email verification appears only when the verification screen offers it. Complete the steps sent to the email shown on that screen.
Instant verification can happen in some cases after website verification in Search Console and it can also apply in bulk verification scenarios.
3. Postcard, live video call and bulk verification for special cases
Postcard verification still appears in some regions and categories, but not for every listing. When mail verification is offered, most verification codes arrive within 14 days. Do not edit the business name, business address or business category before code entry. Codes expire after 30 days and support never asks for the code.
A live video call may not appear for every listing. Live video calls are only available within the business hours of the location. Show location proof outside, then show equipment, then show control proof like keys or staff-only areas.
Bulk verification fits brands with 10 or more locations from the same business. Agencies that manage more than one business in one account cannot use bulk verification.
Now it is time to follow the exact steps for video verification from start to finish.
How do you verify your Google Business Profile with video?
Video verification helps verify Google My Business when other verification methods do not appear. This Google Business Profile verification process checks three things in one pass. The video must confirm the listed address, real operations at that location and management access.
Before recording, confirm what proof needs to appear on camera.
What does Google expect to see in your verification video?
A strong verification video focuses on authenticity and clear proof. Use a single continuous recording and show these elements in order.
1) Location evidence
Start outside the business location. Show street signs, building numbers, nearby businesses and visible landmarks from Google Maps. This path helps reviewers match the storefront to map imagery.
2) Business signage
Show exterior signage that displays the business name. A service area business can show branded vehicles, uniforms or marketing materials instead.
3) Interior workspace
Walk inside and show the work area. A storefront business should show the sales floor, reception area or service space. An office should show workstations and business equipment. A home-based or storage room setup should show tools, inventory or a work vehicle.
4) Proof of management
Show control of the premises and business systems. Use keys to unlock an entrance, access a point of sale system or show employee-only areas. Show non-sensitive business documents like permits, licenses or utility bills with the business info.
With the proof list ready, use this checklist to record and submit correctly.
How do you record and upload a compliant video step by step?
This checklist supports how to verify a Google business profile through the video option.
- Open the Business Profile from Google Search or the Google Maps app.
- Tap Get verified or Verify now on the verification screen.
- Select the video verification option under verification methods.
- Allow camera, microphone and location access on the phone.
- Start recording outside and capture the street and building exterior.
- Walk toward the entrance and keep the camera steady.
- Enter the space and show the main work areas.
- Pause for a few seconds on signage, tools and key equipment.
- Show management access with keys, systems access or documents.
- End the recording and submit the video through the app.
Keep the full clip in one take with no cuts or edits. A steady shot reduces rejection risk during video uploads.
After submission, use these tips to prevent rejection and avoid redoing the video.
Tips to avoid failed video verification and re-recordings
Most failures come from small gaps in proof, not from bad intent.
Fix these issues before a second attempt.
- Use strong lighting and record during business hours when possible.
- Show the full path from street to door to workspace.
- Move slowly and pause for 2 to 3 seconds on key proof.
- Enable location services so the app can confirm the business location during verification.
- Avoid edits, splices or filters in the verification video.
- Read the rejection email and match the record to the missing proof.
A clean second video should address the exact issue called out, like missing signage or weak proof of management access.
If the video does not appear, use these alternate options to verify faster.
How do you verify your Google Business Profile with phone, email or Search Console?
Some listings get faster Google Business Profile verification methods. These options usually appear for established listings with consistent business information. These paths also reduce overall Google Business Profile verification time.
Start with phone or text because this option usually finishes the quickest.
Steps to verify with a phone call or SMS code
Phone verification can finish in minutes when the option appears. Use this flow to verify Google My Business fast.
- Open the Google Business Profile from Google Search or the Google Maps app.
- Start the verification process from the profile dashboard.
- Select Phone or Text on the verification screen.
- Confirm the listed business phone number is correct and reachable.
- Wait for an automated call or SMS with the verification code.
- Enter the code right away to verify the Google Business Profile.
Important considerations:
Phone and SMS verification only appears for listings that already show strong trust signals and consistent business information online. Use a phone number that can receive calls or texts, not only voicemail
- Tell staff to answer unknown numbers during the verification window
- Avoid IVR or automated menus that can block the verification code
- Expect the phone option to disappear for high risk categories
- Build a stronger online presence, because new listings often do not get this option
If the phone does not appear, email can work well for established businesses.
Steps to verify with a business email address
Email verification works like phone verification, but it uses a business inbox. This method can also help with how to get verified on Google My Business quickly.
- Start verification from the profile management interface.
- Select Email verification when the screen offers the option.
- Confirm the masked email shown on screen looks correct.
- Open that inbox and find the verification message.
- Click the link or enter the provided verification code.
Quick checks if the email does not arrive:
- Check spam and junk folders within a few minutes.
- Enter the verification code as soon as it arrives, because it can expire.
A business email that matches the website domain can make email verification more likely. Email verification appears only when Google offers it on your verification screen, and you must be able to access the email shown there.
If the website already has trust signals, instant verification can remove extra steps.
Also read: How to Create a Business Email for Free: 2025 Guide
When can Search Console or instant verification approve the profile?
Instant verification can skip codes and video steps in select cases. This path relies on trust signals from Google Search Console.
Instant verification can appear when these conditions match:
- The website shows as verified in Search Console.
- The same Google account manages Search Console and the profile.
- The business details match what the website already shows online.
A smart setup order can improve odds for instant verification. Verify the website in Search Console first, then create the Business Profile with the same account. This approach can reduce delays during the full verification process.
Google may compare your Business Profile details with what it can confirm online, including your website. Keep your name, address and category consistent, so Google and customers see the same business everywhere.
If you update core details after verification, Google may ask you to verify again, so it helps to keep your website details accurate before you make big edits in your profile.
If your site runs on WordPress, using a setup that makes quick edits simple can save time when you need to update hours, contact details or location pages. Bluehost WordPress hosting includes managed WordPress updates and 24/7 support, which helps you keep your site information current without friction.
Once verified, drive more traffic to your business website with reliable Bluehost WordPress hosting. Get started today.
After your website details match, return to the Business Profile and retry the verification method Google shows for your listing.
If verification fails, fix the root cause instead of repeating the same attempt.
What should you do if your Google Business Profile verification fails?
A failed attempt feels annoying, but most verification issues have a clear fix. Focus on the reason behind the rejection. Then repeat the Google Business Profile verification process with stronger proof.
First, identify the exact rejection trigger so the next attempt succeeds.
Common reasons Google rejects verification attempts
1. Missing or unclear business signage: For storefront and hybrid businesses, show signage where your business name is clearly printed on a permanent fixture (like a signboard, wall or window). If you don’t have permanent on-site signage, list the business as a service-area business instead of storefront.
2. Business address mismatch: Google checks the listed business address against Maps imagery and video proof. Match every detail, including suite numbers, building names and formatting. Keep the address consistent across the website and local listings.
3.Virtual office or coworking space limits: Google often rejects shared addresses without dedicated signage and staffed presence. Use a service area business setup when the space only supports meetings. Show service area proof, tools, inventory or a work vehicle during video.
4. Weak proof of management access: Google needs proof that real control exists at the location. Show keys, a POS login screen, employee only areas or non sensitive business documents. Match documents to the business name and address on the profile.
5. Low quality or incomplete video: Shaky, dark, rushed footage triggers rejection fast. Keep the phone steady and record in good light during business hours. Enable location services so GPS data supports the recording.
6. Inconsistent business information: Google flags mismatches across the listing, signage, website and documents. Fix the business name, category, address and hours before another attempt. Then, retry to verify the Google Business Profile with clean proof.
If the issue involves codes or mail, follow these steps before requesting another one.
How to troubleshoot missing codes or delayed postcards?
Postcards fail sometimes, so use a strict process first. This step matters for postcard verification and any missing verification code.
- Wait for the full window. Postcards often take 5 to 14 business days.
- Avoid a second request too early. A new request cancels the old code.
- Confirm address accuracy. Check typos, suite numbers and formatting.
- Check building mail handling. Ask reception or building staff first.
- Review all the mail carefully. The postcard may look unremarkable.
Request a new postcard after 14 days with the correct address. Contact support after two failed postcard attempts. Ask support for other verification methods when available.
If self-service steps fail, support can unblock ownership and verification problems.
When should you contact Google Business Profile support?
Support helps when normal steps keep failing.
Use support when any of these happen:
- Multiple postcards fail to arrive at a confirmed address
- Video verification fails multiple times after guideline compliant videos
- Another person controls the listing and ignores request ownership steps
- A suspension happens during verification with no clear reason
- Ownership must move from a previous owner or departed employee
Open support from the Get help link inside the profile manager. The Help Center and Help Community also help troubleshoot common verification failures.
Safety warning about scams:
Never share a verification code with anyone. Google support never asks for that code. Scammers target owners while verifying your Google business, so keep codes private.
Final thoughts
Start the Google Business Profile verification process as soon as the listing appears in the local search. Complete the steps in one sitting, because delays often create mistakes.
Use the fastest option on the verification screen. Choose phone or email when available. Use video verification when it shows as the default method.
Plan the video before recording. Show the street and building first, then show clear business signage with the business name. Next, walk inside and show real operations. Finish with proof of management access, like keys, employee only areas or non-sensitive business documents.
Fix data issues before a second attempt. Keep the business name, business address, business category and business hours consistent across the website and citations. This consistency supports verification and improves local SEO after the profile goes live.
After the profile gets verified, keep the website fast and stable. Get started with Bluehost WordPress hosting for built-in performance and security essentials, plus 24/7 support, so you never go alone.
FAQs
Verification time depends on the method. Phone and email verification complete in minutes. Instant verification through Search Console can be immediate when it’s offered, but not all businesses will see this option. Video recording verification typically takes up to 5 business days for review. Postcard verification requires 5-14 days for mail delivery plus code entry time. Bulk verification for multiple locations can take several weeks.
Confirm your exact business name matches your signage and legal documents. Make sure your business address is correct and meets Google’s address guidelines and be ready to verify using the options Google shows you. Ensure your business phone number and email are accessible for receiving codes. Have proof-of-business materials ready: photos of signage, business licenses, utility bills and interior workspace images.
Search for your business name on Google Search or the Google Maps app. If your business appears, click “Claim this business” or “Own this business?” to start the claiming process. If no listing exists, click “Add your business to Google” and enter your business details including name, business category, address or service area, phone number and website.
Google determines verification methods based on factors like your business type, public info, region and business hours and you can only use the options shown to you. Consistent NAP information across the web and a verified website in Search Console increase your chances of seeing faster methods.
You cannot choose verification methods freely. Google shows only what it considers appropriate for your situation. If video is the only option presented, you must complete video verification. Contacting Google Business Profile support may result in alternative methods like a live video call, but there’s no guaranteed way to bypass video requirements when Google has determined it’s necessary.
Service-area businesses verify by showing proof of location, operations and management access. If you don’t meet customers at your business address, you can choose not to show your address. Verification typically requires video showing your home office, storage room or wherever you store equipment and vehicles. Include footage of branded vehicles, tools, uniforms or marketing materials that demonstrate you operate in your claimed service area.
Agencies can be added as managers to help with the verification process, but business ownership should remain with the actual business owner. For bulk verification of multiple locations, the brand owner, not an agency, must submit the application. Agencies managing different client brands aren’t eligible for bulk verification and should verify each client’s locations individually with the client’s involvement.
If your business operates as a service area business without a physical storefront, you can still verify your business profile on Google. Verification typically requires showing proof of your business operations, such as branded vehicles, tools or marketing materials, along with a video recording or live video call to confirm your service area and management access. Google uses these proofs to verify your business even without a traditional storefront.
If you encounter verification issues such as missing postcards, failed video verification or ownership conflicts, you can request support directly through your Google Business Profile dashboard. Use the ‘Get help’ or support links to contact Google’s support team, who can assist with resolving verification problems and guide you through submitting a new video or other verification methods as needed.
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