Google requires verification whenever you add or claim an existing Business Profile on Google. This is needed so that Google can verify that you are actually the owner of the Business and that the Business truly exists.
Upon either creating a location or claiming an existing Business Profile, you will be able to verify the location through the following verification options:
- Phone Call
- SMS
- Postcard
Typically when claiming an existing Business Profile, you will have more than one option to choose from, but when creating a location the most common option will be a Postcard. Postcard verification usually takes about 14 days, but Google does provide an estimated number of days (typically between 7-14 days). Phone calls, SMS, and Emails should only take a few minutes to verify once requested.
The verification options available for the location are dependent on the following according to Google:
- Business category
- Public information
- Region
- Support hours
- Volume
You will receive a pin which allows you to begin the process of verifying your location (see above for estimated time frames regarding different verification types). Upon verifying with a pin, the following actions may happen:
- Complete: The location is completely verified and Google has recognized you as the owner of the location.
- Pending: Sometimes Google needs to review the verification which can take up to 7 days to confirm.
- Failed: This will happen if the Pin has expired or Google can't verify the listing based on that method.
This process is entirely tracked within your Google My Business account.