How to Claim a Business on Google in Few Easy Steps

Okay, here’s a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to claim a business on Google, incorporating information from the search results to provide a thorough and up-to-date process:

Claiming your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is crucial for boosting your online presence and attracting local customers2 56. It allows you to manage how your business appears on Google Search, Google Maps, and Google Shopping, ensuring accurate information and engaging with potential clients35. Here’s how to do it:

: Appear prominently in local searches5.
: Establish trust with potential customers2.
: Manage your business name, address, phone number, website, hours, and more3.
: Respond to reviews and answer questions directly1.

: Create or Sign In to a Google Account

If you don’t already have one, create a Google Account specifically for your business. This should be a separate account from your personal one1. Go to https://www.google.com/business/ or https://www.google.com/intl/en_uk/business/ and click “Manage now” to start the process6.
If you already have a Google Account for your business, simply sign in6.

: Find Your Business on Google Maps

There are several ways to find your business listing:

: Google Search: Go to Google.com and search for your business name and city14. Then, click the “Maps” tab4.
: Google Maps Directly: Go directly to Google Maps (google.com/maps) and type your business name into the search bar12.
: “Add a Missing Place” (If Your Business Isn’t Listed): If your business doesn’t appear, click the three horizontal lines in the top-left corner of Google Maps to open the menu4. Scroll down and select “Add a missing place”14. Fill out the form with your business’s name, category, address, hours, contact information, website, and opening date4. Then skip to step 7.

: Select Your Business (If It Appears)

If your business appears in the search results, click on the correct listing to expand it1.

: Look for the “Claim This Business” Option

On the expanded Business Profile, look for the “Claim this business” link or “Own this business?” option1 35. The exact wording may vary.
: The listing might already be claimed3. In that case, see the “What if the Business is Already Claimed?” section below.

: Click “Manage Now” or “Claim This Business”

Clicking “Claim this business” will overlay a screen where you can “Manage now” to confirm it’s your business1.

: Provide Your Information

You’ll be asked to provide details such as your name, contact number, your relationship to the business (owner, manager, etc.), and the level of access you require3.

: Verification

Google needs to verify that you are the rightful owner of the business1. The verification process varies:
- : If you’ve already set up your business using Google Search Console, you might get instant verification2. Look for a verification button in your Business Profile dashboard2.
- : Google can send a verification code to the business phone number listed2. You can choose to receive the code via phone call or text message, even if it’s a landline2.
- : In some cases, Google may offer email verification.
- : Google will mail a postcard to your business address with a verification code2. This is the most common method. The postcard typically arrives within a few days to a couple of weeks. Do not edit your business information while waiting for the postcard5.
: Once you receive the code, enter it into your Google Business Profile dashboard to complete the verification process.

: Complete Your Profile

Once verified, complete your profile with as much detail as possible6. This includes:
- : Use the exact trading name of your business36. Don’t add keywords to the name, as Google may suspend your account3.
- : Choose the most relevant category from the list provided36. You can add multiple categories later3.
- : Enter your physical address accurately.
- : Provide a valid phone number.
- : Add your website URL.
- : Set your accurate business hours.
- : Write a compelling and keyword-rich description of your business3.
- : Add high-quality photos of your business, including the exterior, interior, products, and team6.

: Keep Your Profile Updated

Regularly update your profile with new information, photos, and posts to keep it fresh and engaging.
Respond promptly to customer reviews, both positive and negative16.

If you find that your business listing has already been claimed, here’s what to do3:

: Find the “Claim this business” button, then click on “Request Access.”
: Provide your name, contact number, your relationship to the business, and the level of access you need3.
: The current account holder will receive your request and has three days to respond3.
: If the current account holder doesn’t respond within three days, Google may allow you to claim the profile yourself. Go to your Google Business Profile manager dashboard and look for the option to claim your business3. Google may grant you full management access after seven days of becoming the new owner3.
: If you are unable to claim the business through the above steps, contact Google Business Profile support for assistance.

: Use the same business name, address, and phone number (NAP) across all online platforms.
: Regularly check your Google Business Profile for accuracy and make updates as needed.
: Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews on your Google Business Profile2.
: Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, in a professional and timely manner16.
: Upload attractive photos of your business6.
: Share news, promotions, and events on your Google Business Profile.

By following these steps, you can effectively claim your business on Google and start attracting more local customers! Good luck 👍👍

How to Claim a Business on Google in Few Easy Steps – 2025