Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming & Verifying Your Google Business Profile
If you want your business to show up in Google Search and Google Maps, claiming and verifying your Google Business Profile (GBP) is the first step. A verified GBP not only increases your online visibility but also helps you attract more local customers.
Many business owners struggle with the verification process or don’t realize how important it is. That’s why we offer Google Business Listing verification assistance to ensure your business gets set up properly.
Follow this step-by-step guide to claim and verify your profile—and if you need help, we’re here to make the process seamless!
Step 1: Search for Your Business on Google
Before creating a new listing, check if your business already exists in Google’s database.
How to Check:
Go to Google Business Profile
Click “Manage Now”
Type your business name and location into the search bar
If your business appears: You’ll need to claim it.
If your business doesn’t appear: You’ll need to create a new listing.
Step 2: Claim Your Google Business Profile
If your business already exists on Google, you can claim ownership and gain full control over your listing.
How to Claim a Business Listing:
Click on the existing business listing when it appears in the search results
Click “Claim this business”
Sign in with your Google account
Follow the prompts to request access to the profile
If the business is already claimed by someone else: You can request ownership or submit a dispute.
Need help with a disputed listing? Contact us, and we’ll assist you with reclaiming access.
Step 3: Create a New Google Business Profile
If your business doesn’t exist on Google, you’ll need to create a new listing.
How to Create a New GBP:
Visit Google Business Profile
Click “Add your business to Google”
Enter your business name and select the appropriate category
Add your business location (if applicable)
Provide contact details like phone number and website
Click “Finish” to move to verification
Step 4: Verify Your Business with Google
To prevent fraud, Google requires verification before your business appears in search results. There are several verification methods, but availability depends on Google’s system.
Google Verification Methods:
✅ Postcard Verification (Most Common)
Google sends a postcard to your business address within 5–14 days
The postcard contains a verification code
Log into your Google Business Profile, enter the code, and complete verification
✅ Phone or Email Verification (Only available for certain businesses)
Google may allow verification via phone call or email
If eligible, you’ll receive a code to enter into your Google Business Profile
✅ Instant Verification (Available for some businesses already verified through Google Search Console)
If Google trusts your business details, you might be verified instantly
✅ Video Verification (Newer method)
Google may request a short video walkthrough of your business location
Need help with verification? If you're struggling with the process or your postcard hasn’t arrived, we can assist with Google Business verification! We just assisted a client with her video verification.
Step 5: Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Once verified, your GBP is officially live! Now, it’s time to fully optimize your listing to attract more customers.
Must-Do Optimizations:
✔ Complete Your Business Info – Ensure your name, address, phone number (NAP), and website are accurate
✔ Add High-Quality Photos – Businesses with images get 42% more requests for directions
✔ List Your Services & Products – This helps customers understand what you offer
✔ Encourage & Respond to Reviews – Reviews boost credibility and rankings
✔ Post Updates & Offers – Use Google Posts to share promotions, events, or news
Why Claiming & Verifying Your Google Business Profile Matters
A verified and optimized GBP helps businesses:
A verified and optimized Google Business Profile helps your business rank higher in local search results and Google Maps, making it easier for potential customers to find you. It also increases customer calls and website visits, as more people engage with businesses that appear at the top of search results. Additionally, actively managing your profile and responding to customer reviews builds trust and credibility, encouraging more people to choose your business. By optimizing your listing, you can stand out from competitors in Southwest Florida, attracting more local customers and growing your business.
Need Help Verifying Your Google Business Listing? We’ve Got You Covered!
If you’re struggling with claiming, verifying, or optimizing your Google Business Profile, we can handle it for you.
Lost access to your business listing? We can help reclaim ownership.
Postcard verification delayed or missing? We’ll troubleshoot and speed up the process.
Want expert setup & optimization? Let’s ensure your profile is fully optimized for maximum visibility in Southwest Florida!
📩 Contact us today to get started with your Google Business Page Optimization!