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How to Set Up a Google Business Profile

Tap a step to check it off in order.

  1. Start your Google Business Profile

    Go to google.com/business, sign in with a Google account, and enter your business name to start building your profile.

  2. Choose a business category

    Search for and select the category that best describes your business β€” it helps you show up for relevant searches.

  3. Enter your business details

    Fill in details customers will want to know, like address, phone number, hours, and website.

  4. Verify ownership

    Your profile only goes public after you verify you are the real owner, using a method Google offers such as postcard, phone, email, or video call.

  5. Round out your profile

    Add a cover photo and a description of your business to build trust with people who find your listing.

  6. Check your listing on Search and Maps

    Once verified, your business details and customer reviews will show up together in Google Search and Google Maps.

  7. Why it is worth doing

    It surfaces your business in Google Search and Maps at no cost, helping bring in visits and inquiries from local customers searching nearby.

Google usually assigns the verification method for you

Whether you verify by postcard, phone, email, or video call is mostly decided automatically by Google based on your business information. Sometimes you are offered a choice between a few methods β€” just pick whichever fits your situation.

Keep your hours current and respond to reviews

A profile is not a set-it-and-forget-it listing. Outdated hours are one of the most common sources of customer frustration, so update them promptly around holidays or schedule changes. Responding to reviews, especially negative ones, also signals to both customers and Google's ranking system that the business is actively managed, which tends to help both trust and visibility over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if someone else has already listed my business?

Search for the existing listing in Search or Maps, use an option like "Own this business?" to request ownership, and complete the verification process to take over management.

Is there a cost to set up a listing?

Setting up and managing the basic features of a Google Business Profile is free.