How to Verify Your Google Business Profile: Step-by-Step Guide 2025
Making sure your Google Business Profile (GBP) is verified is a key part of showing up in local searches and appearing on Google Maps. If you're a local business trying to get found online, this is one of the first things to tick off your list.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to get verified in 2025 using the latest methods — plus what to do if something goes wrong along the way.
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Why Verifying Your Google Business Profile is Important
A verified Google Business Profile tells both Google and your potential customers that you’re the real deal. It also stops other people from making unauthorised changes to your listing.
✔ Boosts trust and credibility
✔ Improves your local search rankings
✔ Lets you manage reviews, photos, and updates
If your business isn’t verified, you’re missing out on valuable visibility in Google Search and Maps - especially when people are looking for services in your area.
Step 1: Sign in to Google Business Profile Manager
Head to Google Business Profile Manager and sign in with your Google account.
If your business isn’t listed yet, just click “Get started” and follow the prompts.
Step 2: Enter Your Business Information
Start entering your details:
Your business name (check if it already exists)
Choose your business category (e.g. plumber, café, estate agent)
Add your location if customers visit you
Select your service areas if you travel to customers
Add a contact number and your website (if you have one)
Make sure everything is accurate - especially your address and phone number
Step 3: Choose a Verification Method
Google offers different verification methods depending on your business type, location, and history. Here’s what you might see:
1. Postcard Verification (Most Common)
Google sends a postcard to your business address with a 5-digit code. It usually arrives within 5–14 days.
Once it arrives, log in and enter the code in your Google Business dashboard.
2. Phone Verification (Available for Some Businesses)
You may be offered the option to receive a code by text or voice call. Enter the code to confirm your profile.
3. Email Verification (Certain Business Types Only)
Some businesses can verify via email. Google will send you a code — either click the link or enter it manually.
4. Video Verification (New for 2025)
Record a quick video showing your business location, your signage, and your physical premises. Upload it for review - Google uses this to check that your business exists and is where you say it is.
5. Instant Verification
If you’ve already verified your website through Google Search Console, you might get instant verification - no code needed.
Step 4: Confirm and Complete Your Profile
Once you're verified, take a few minutes to finish setting everything up:
✔ Add your opening hours
✔ Upload photos of your business, services, and products
✔ Add a clear business description
✔ Start asking happy customers for reviews
A well-completed profile helps you stand out and builds trust with people who find you online.
Troubleshooting: What If You Don’t Receive the Verification Code?
If your postcard doesn’t arrive or something goes wrong:
Wait at least 14 days before requesting another
Double-check your address is correct (and includes suite/unit numbers if applicable)
Contact Google Support if it’s still not working
Final Thoughts
Verifying your Google Business Profile is one of the simplest ways to boost your local online visibility. It helps potential customers find you, trust you, and get in touch — and it gives you full control over what shows up when they search.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t stop at verification. Keep your profile active with regular updates, new photos, fresh reviews, and posts. It all helps you rank better in local search results.
Need a hand setting up or verifying your Google Business Profile?
Get in touch — we’re happy to help.
This article was written by Kat James, a website consultant and content creator for businesses in Kent.
If you're looking for a modern, effective, and professionally designed business website that can work wonders for your online presence, don't hesitate to contact Kat at it'seeze Gravesend. Our affordable web design services are tailored to help businesses like yours grow online.
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