At a Glance

Google Business Profile in Short

Best ForAny local business that wants to show up in Google Maps and local search

CostGoogle says you can add or claim your business at no charge. The pages we read list no paid plans.

AccountA Google account. Google sends you to its sign in page first.

How It Checks YouGoogle offers a phone call or text code, an email, a live video call, a postcard with a 5 digit code, or a video recording. Which ones you see depends on your business type and profile.

Time to Go LiveGoogle says reviews generally take up to 5 business days, and rarely longer. Some profiles verify right away. Postcard codes usually arrive within 14 days.

No StorefrontGoogle says if you do not serve customers at your address, you should remove the address from your profile. You can set up to 20 service areas instead.

Before You Start

What to Have Ready

Exact business name as it shows in real life
Business address, or your service areas if you travel to customers
A business phone number that can get a call or text
Business website
Business hours and categories
A phone or camera for a video check if Google asks

Step by Step

Set Up Your Listing

Go to business.google.com/add and sign in with your Google account.
Click Add your business to Google.
Enter your business details by following the on screen instructions.
Check that your address is correct and follows Google's guidelines.
If your business already shows on Google Maps, search your business name and city there and select Claim this business, then Manage now.
Pick a verification option and follow the steps it gives you.
If your profile is already verified by someone else, you cannot claim it. Ask the current owner for ownership instead.
After you verify, open Edit profile, then Location, and click Edit next to Service area if you travel to customers.

Sites move their buttons around. If a screen looks different, look for words like add, claim or list your business.

Good to Know

Tips for This Site

Search Google Maps for your business first so you claim the old listing instead of making a duplicate.
Phone codes cannot go to an automated phone menu, so use a number a person or phone can answer.
Live video calls only happen during your location's business hours.
Use the same name, address and phone on every other listing you build.

Keep Going