Learn how to fix your Google Business Profile (GBP) and get your business back on track.
Google Business Profiles (GBP) are like online advertisements for local businesses. Many small businesses rely on their GBP to attract customers.
If a business’s GBP is suspended, it can lose a lot of customers and even go out of business. But don’t worry, there’s a new process to help.
Google used to keep it secret why they suspended a GBP. This made business owners frustrated. But now, they have a new process in the European Union (EU), and it will soon be available worldwide.
The new process helps by telling business owners why their GBP is suspended. This way, businesses can fix the issues and follow Google’s rules.
To check if your GBP is suspended, look at your GBP account. You’ll see a message saying it’s either “suspended” or “disabled.” You’ll also get an email from Google telling you why.
The email will mention a “Violation type,” which explains the problem. Click on the “suspension policy” link in the email to learn more.
Once you fix the issues, use the email you manage your GBP with and click the “Appeal” button in the email. This will take you to the Appeals tool.
In the Appeals tool, make sure your email is correct. Then, select your suspended business. If you have more than one, choose the right one.
You’ll see if your suspension can be appealed. If it can, click “Next” to begin the appeal.
Now, you have 60 minutes to upload some documents to prove your business is real. You need:
- Official business registration
- Business license
- Tax certificate
- Utility bill
Make sure the documents have your business name and address that match your GBP. The utility bill can be for things like electricity or internet.
Try to provide all the documents you can to have a better chance of getting your GBP back.
If you’re not sure, ask an expert for help. Don’t go on without help; your business’s future depends on it.
After you have the documents, click “Submit.”
A timer starts for 60 minutes. If you don’t add evidence, it’s harder to get your GBP back. So, click on “Add Evidence” and follow the instructions.
Tell Google why your profile should be reinstated and what changes you made. Be clear and stick to the facts. You have 1,000 characters.
Once you’re done, click “Submit.”
After you submit, check the Appeals tool for updates. You’ll see if your appeal is “Approved” or “Not Approved.”
Google will need a few days to review everything. If they approve your appeal, you’ll get an email.
If they don’t, we don’t know much about the “re-appeal” process.
In this new process, you’ll know why your GBP got suspended, and it’s easier to follow. Just make sure your GBP meets the rules and provide the right documents.
If you’re not sure, ask an expert to help you through it.