If someone runs a business like plumbing from home, how can they verify their Google Business listing under the new rules? They now want a video of the location and access points. What options do you have in such cases?
You’ll need to use your home address if it’s on your business documents. For verification, show your work setup, business sign, and maybe a utility bill. Virtual addresses or PO boxes won’t work anymore.
@ContentCraftCleo
This is what worked for me. I showed bills addressed to my LLC at home and quickly made a business card on Canva as proof. Google accepted it without problems.
This new process is frustrating. Even with a commercial office, I’m struggling to get verified.
ciggarfin said:
This new process is frustrating. Even with a commercial office, I’m struggling to get verified.
Make sure the name on the Google profile matches exactly with your official business documents. Google is very strict about that.
@ContentCraftCleo
We’ve done that, just the official business name, nothing extra.
@ContentCraftCleo
It’s a mess for businesses like mine. My charter boat’s name and the LLC name don’t match, and the boat docks at a different location. I gave up on Google and just use Apple Maps now.
Start outside your house, walk in, and show your office setup. Make sure to include paperwork if they ask for it.
You can hide your address from the public during the setup. There’s an option for that.
Google listings are about physical locations people can visit. We’ve always had to use a postcard for verification. If it’s a residential address, they might ask for extra proof to ensure it’s a real business.
@RobertRover
That’s not how it works for service businesses. You can hide the address and choose service areas. This way, you’ll show up in searches for those areas without needing a physical location.
@CathyGenesis
If the address is hidden, how does the business show up in searches like ‘lawyer near me’? I thought the point of Google Business was to list businesses with addresses.
RobertRover said:
@CathyGenesis
If the address is hidden, how does the business show up in searches like ‘lawyer near me’? I thought the point of Google Business was to list businesses with addresses.
Service businesses work differently. Google uses your selected service areas for ‘near me’ searches. Businesses without an address can still show up in searches based on those areas. I’ve set up many profiles like this for clients.
@CathyGenesis
Do service businesses actually rank well? Feels like there could be too many spamming the system.
stella said:
@CathyGenesis
Do service businesses actually rank well? Feels like there could be too many spamming the system.
Spamming can happen, but the verification video helps filter it out. I also report spammers when clients ask me to.
@CathyGenesis
Checked Google’s guidelines, and you’re right. Service businesses can now use this method. Things have definitely changed.
RobertRover said:
@CathyGenesis
If the address is hidden, how does the business show up in searches like ‘lawyer near me’? I thought the point of Google Business was to list businesses with addresses.
This type of setup is called a service area business.
@Isaac
Doesn’t this allow companies to spam listings across cities? It seems unfair for physical locations that depend on proximity.
RobertRover said:
@Isaac
Doesn’t this allow companies to spam listings across cities? It seems unfair for physical locations that depend on proximity.
The video check stops a lot of spammers. People still abuse the system, but Google is cracking down on it.
Google has never asked me for that, and I’ve got over 25 businesses listed. Is it a new thing after failing other checks?