Open your Business Profile, select Get verified and complete whichever method Google offers you. Google decides the methods from your business type, public information, region and hours, and you cannot change them. After you finish, Google says its review takes up to 5 business days.
The methods Google may offer
Google says the methods are chosen automatically and can't be changed. You may see one or several:
- Phone or text: Google calls or texts a code to the business number. Google says automated phone menus (IVR) won't get the code, so answer in person.
- Email: Google sends an email and you follow the steps in it.
- Live video call: you speak with a Google support representative while you are at the business. Google says these calls are only available within your location's business hours.
- Recorded video: you film a short, unedited video of the business on your phone and upload it.
- Postcard: Google posts a 5-digit code to your business address. Google says most codes arrive within 14 days and expire after 30 days.
Steps to verify
- Sign in with the Google account that manages the profile and open your Business Profile.
- Select Get verified.
- Choose one of the methods shown, such as Phone, SMS, Email, Live video call, Business video or Postcard.
- Complete it: enter the code from the call, text or postcard, follow the email, or finish the call or upload.
- Wait for Google's review.
What to show on a verification video
Google asks for one continuous, unedited recording of at least 30 seconds, made on your phone after you allow location, camera and microphone access. It should show three things:
- Where you are: street signs, the building number, nearby businesses or familiar landmarks.
- That the business exists: your storefront, showroom or signage. A service-area business can show its tools, equipment, products or branded items instead.
- That you manage it: for example, open an area only staff can reach, or show yourself carrying out the service.
If verification fails
Google says that when verification does not succeed, the Get verified button appears again. If more than one method is available, you can try another one.
If a video is rejected, Google shows a Review issues notice with the reason, such as unclear signage or missing surroundings. Record again, keep everything you showed the first time, and add what was missing.
Common problems
- Why can't I choose postcard or phone?
- Google chooses the methods from your business type, public information, region and hours, and says they can't be changed. Use one of the options you are shown.
- How long does verification take?
- Google says its review takes up to 5 business days after you complete the steps. Postcard delivery comes on top of that.
- My postcard code expired or never arrived. What now?
- Google says verification codes expire after 30 days. If the code has expired or the Get verified button is back, start verification again with a method Google offers.
- Google asked for more information. What do I do?
- Select Get verified again and follow the on-screen steps.
After you are verified
Once Google has verified the profile, connect the Google account that manages it to Reach. You can then edit hours, contact details, services and photos on one page and publish the changes to Google.