Multiple Google Business Profile Blog FAQ

Q: Can I have more than one Google Business Profile (GBP) if I have multiple businesses at the same address?

A: Yes, if your businesses are legally separate with different names, tax IDs, and phone numbers, you can usually create a GBP for each. But, you need to be careful with the details.

Q: How do I know if my businesses are different enough to have separate GBPs?

A: Each business needs to be legally separate, with its own registration, tax ID, phone number, and meet customers face-to-face. If you check all these boxes, you’re good to go.

Q: Can service area businesses (SABs) have more than one GBP at the same address?

A: This is tricky. While Google hasn’t officially banned SABs from having multiple listings at the same address, it often doesn’t approve them. You can try, but be ready for Google to possibly deny or later suspend the listings.

Q: What makes a business ineligible for multiple GBPs at the same address?

A: If your businesses aren’t legally separate or if they share a phone number, you can’t list them separately. Also, if they’re just different services under one business, like a handyman who fixes both heaters and ACs, they can’t have separate listings.

Q: Will I be penalized for listing ineligible businesses at the same address?

A: Yes, Google could remove your listing and its reviews if they find it ineligible. In some cases, your account could be suspended.

Q: Will using suite numbers help me get more GBPs?

A: No, Google doesn’t consider suite numbers when determining if a location is eligible for multiple listings. Don’t try to make one location look like two by using different suite numbers.

Q: Can I list my business at a co-working space?

A: Yes, but only if your business has street-level signage, a unique phone number, and serves customers face-to-face during business hours. Also, your listing might not rank well if other businesses at the same address compete with you for the same keywords.

Q: How many GBPs can I have if I run seasonal businesses at the same address?

A: You can list seasonal businesses, but each one needs year-round signage, and you must update the hours in Google when the business is open or closed. Each business should also have a different name, phone number, and category.

Q: How should I name my businesses at the same address?

A: Keep business names distinct. For example, don’t name them “Rainbow Pottery” and “Rainbow Pet Grooming.” Use unique names to avoid filters and penalties from Google.

Q: Can I create separate listings for classes, meetings, or events that share a location?

A: This can be confusing. If you own the building, you might be able to, but Google’s rules are unclear. Be careful, as these listings might be seen as spam and get removed.

Q: How do I set GBP hours for different parts of my business at the same address?

A: Use the hours for the main part of your business. For example, if you run a gas station, use the pump hours. You can also add “More hours” for other services, like a store that’s only open certain times.

Q: How can I list my ghost kitchen or virtual food brand?

A: You can list them if you have street signage, offer customer pickup, or have a separate website and branding. If you only deliver, hide your address and set up a service area.

Q: Can my listing get mixed up with another business at the same location?

A: This used to happen a lot, but it’s less common now. Make sure each business has its own phone number, unique name, and carefully chosen categories to avoid issues.

Q: Why is only one of my businesses showing up in Google’s local results?

A: Google may be filtering out your other businesses because they’re too similar. It’s best to avoid creating multiple listings for businesses that share the same categories or keywords.

Q: My GBP is being filtered due to co-location. What should I do?

A: If your listing isn’t showing up because of filtering, try auditing your competitor to see why they rank higher. You might need to adjust your strategy or consider moving to a different location.

Q: How can I manage multiple GBPs more easily?

A: Managing multiple GBPs can be difficult since Google replaced its old dashboard. Using a listings management tool like Moz Local can help make the process easier and more organized.

Having multiple businesses at the same address is okay, but you need to follow Google’s rules carefully. Make sure each business is legally separate, has unique details, and follows best practices to avoid issues.

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