How do you verify a Google Business Profile, and why does Google ask for a video?
Verification is how Google confirms you run the business; until then you cannot edit the profile or interact with customers through it. Google decides which methods you get, based on business type, public info, region or hours: phone or text, email, a live video call, a postcard or a recorded video, which it recommends when you are eligible. The video must show where you are, that the business exists and that you run it.
Why Google asks
Google says verifying gives you ownership of your Business Profile, and that a video helps it confirm you manage or represent the business. You need a Google Account to sign up, and a verified profile to reply to reviews. If someone else verified it, see the related answer on what to do if someone else controls your Google Business Profile.
Google says "Verification methods are automatically determined by Google and can’t be changed", and that some businesses need more than one. So if only a video is offered, there is usually no way around it.
The methods Google describes
A caller claiming to be Google who asks for your code deserves the caution in the related answer on spotting an SEO scam.
- Phone or text: a code to the business number; Google says automated phone menus will not get it.
- Email: follow the steps in the message Google sends.
- Live video call: only during business hours, from the business itself.
- Postcard: Google says most codes arrive within 14 days and expire after 30 days. While waiting, do not edit the name, address or category, or request a new code. Google says it will never ask for your verification code, and not to share it, even with people who manage your profile.
- Recorded video: Google recommends it if you are eligible.
What a verification video has to show
Google says the video must be captured live and uploaded from a mobile device through the profile, unedited, with no breaks, and at least 30 seconds long. It must not show bank, tax or ID numbers, private info or other people's faces, and for a storefront the name shown must be the name on the profile. The rest depends on business type:
| Storefront or hybrid | Service-area business | |
|---|---|---|
| Where you are | Street signs, building numbers or nearby businesses | Street signs or landmarks at the business address, or in your neighborhood if you work from home |
| That the business exists | The storefront, showroom or signage, with the name on a permanent fixture | Tools, equipment or products you use, business cards or branded clothing |
| That you run it | Something only staff can access, such as a cash register or point-of-sale system | Doing the work, unlocking a branded van, or a permit, invoice or utility bill in the name on the profile |
If it is not accepted
- A Review issues notice means the video was not accepted. Google gives reasons, such as the name not visible on the storefront or no nearby area shown; record a new video with everything from the first plus what was missing.
- A Get verified button that reappears means Google could not fully verify the business; try again or try another method.
- Google says reviews take up to 5 business days, rarely longer.
- Later changes to your business info may mean verifying again.
Sources
- Google Business Profile Help, "Verify your business on Google"
- Google Business Profile Help, "Verify your business with a video recording"
- Google Business Profile Help, "Manage customer reviews"
Related answers
- What is a Google Business Profile, and does a service business need one?
- Why is my business not showing up on Google Maps?
- What if someone else controls my business’s Google profile?
- How do you spot an SEO scam?
SEO for service businesses
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