If your Google Business Profile (GBP) was recently unverified, you are not alone.
Many legitimate businesses are experiencing this issue due to Google's ongoing efforts to remove fake or fraudulent listings. Unfortunately, this has impacted real businesses, leaving owners scrambling to get their profiles re-verified.
The good news is that there is a way to restore your profile through Google’s video verification process. While it might seem intimidating, following the steps can make it straightforward.
This guide will walk you through the process step by step to help you complete the video verification process.
Why Did You Lose Your Google Business Verification?
Before COVID-19, Google required businesses to have a physical, brick-and-mortar location to qualify for a Google Business Profile (GBP), formerly known as Google My Business. This policy was intended to help local businesses connect with customers in their communities.
However, when the pandemic forced many businesses to operate from home, Google relaxed its rules and allowed businesses to list service areas instead of a physical address. Unfortunately, this also led to a rise in fake business listings, with scammers taking advantage of the system.
Now that things have stabilized, Google is aggressively cracking down on fraudulent profiles. As a result, some legitimate businesses have lost their verification.
If this has happened to you, don't panic—Google provides a way to restore your profile through its video verification process, which confirms that your business is real and actively operating.
What is Google’s Video Verification Process?
Google’s video verification is a one-take video submission where you show evidence that your business is legitimate. The video must:
Be continuous and unedited, meaning no cuts or splices.
Be between 30 seconds and 5 minutes long, with an ideal length of around 2 minutes.
Clearly show proof of business ownership or management.
This process helps Google confirm that:
You operate a real business.
You are in control of the business.
The address and details match your official business registration.
The goal is to show Google that your business exists and is actively serving customers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Video Verification
1. Get Your Device Ready
Use your smartphone to record the video.
Ensure you have a strong Wi-Fi or cellular connection to prevent upload issues.
2. Start the Verification Process
Open your browser and visit business.google.com.
Click on Get Verified.
Enter your business mailing address (this will not be public but must match official records).
You may not see this screen if your business has a public address.
3. Record Your Video
Your video must include three key elements:
A. Show Your Business Location
If you have a physical location, stand outside and show the building, signage, or storefront.
If you work from home, unlocking the door on camera to show access is optional but can help.
B. Show Proof of Business Operations
Capture branded work equipment such as tools, computers, or service materials.
Show marketing materials, including business cards, banners, or branded merchandise.
Display products or services in action, such as a hairstylist cutting hair or a consultant working at their desk.
C. Prove Business Management or Ownership
Show official business documents such as:
Business registration
Utility bills
Invoices with your business name
Record yourself performing a key business task to prove you actively run it.
Be sure not to include sensitive information such as bank statements or client details.
4. Upload Your Video
After recording, Google will prompt you to upload the video.
Stay connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data to prevent upload failures.
How to Avoid Common Mistakes
Skipping important elements—Ensure your video includes branding, business operations, and ownership proof.
Rushing through the recording—Keep it steady and well-lit.
Uploading a video shorter than 30 seconds—This will automatically get rejected.
Providing mismatched documents—Ensure your business name and address align across all materials.
What Happens After Submitting Your Video?
Processing time: Google takes about one week to review your submission.
Approval: If accepted, your business profile will be reinstated.
Rejection: If your video is unclear or incomplete, Google may request a redo or a live video call.
If you do not hear back within a week, check your email or Google Business Profile dashboard for updates.
Need Help? We Can Assist You
Losing your Google Business Profile verification can be frustrating, but following this guide can help you get it back. If you need expert assistance with the process, we are here to help. Contact us today, and let’s restore your business profile.
Heather McElrath founded Sandbox Communications, where she combines decades of experience in journalism, PR, and marketing to help small businesses thrive. Passionate about SEO, Google Business Profiles, and digital strategies, Heather believes in making digital marketing approachable and effective for every business. When she's not optimizing online strategies, she explores new ideas, embraces creativity, and enjoys life’s playful moments.
Last updated: March 1, 2025
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