Verification, ownership, and duplicates explained

Find the profile and the owner

Search for the business name, address, and previous names where relevant. A profile may already exist even if no one on your current team remembers setting it up.

Make an inventory of the correct listing and who has access. If a former employee or supplier controls it, follow the appropriate ownership request process instead of creating a competing listing.

Prepare for the method offered

Google chooses the available verification options. Those options can vary by business. The owner should complete the required verification and keep any codes private.

For video verification, prepare to show the real location, business operation, and evidence that you manage it. Review Google’s current instructions before recording so the right details are ready.

• Use the real business location and consistent details.
• Have relevant signage, equipment, and access available.
• Avoid including unrelated private information.
• Follow the exact instructions shown for your profile.

Organize access after verification

Keep primary ownership with the business. Add a provider through the appropriate profile role instead of sharing a password. Review access when employees or suppliers change.

For several locations, track each profile separately. Document the owner, location information, pending verification issues, and the contact person who can confirm local details.