How to Verify Your Google Business Listing

How to Prepare to Verify Your Google Business Listing

Verifying your Google Business Listing is the most crucial step in confirming your business’s legitimacy and helping it appear in Google Search and Maps results. Without verification, your business won’t be visible to potential clients or able to receive reviews. Here’s how to prepare and what documentation you’ll need to make the process smooth.

Why Google Business Verification Matters

Verification helps Google confirm that your business is genuine and that you have authority to manage it. Once verified, you can:

• Appear in local map packs on Google Search.
  
• Collect and respond to Google reviews.
  
• Update your contact details, hours, and services in real time.
  
• Improve your local SEO ranking by linking your verified listing with your website and social media.
  

Before You Begin: Ensure Your Information Matches

Before submitting your verification request, ensure your NAP details (Name, Address, Phone number) are consistent across your website, social media, and directory listings. Google cross-checks this information against public records and existing online profiles.

If your business has recently moved or rebranded, update your website and social media profiles before requesting verification.

Documentation Required for Google Business Verification

Depending on your business type and verification method, Google may ask for one or more of the following documents:

Business Registration Documents

• ASIC Business Name Registration or Certificate of Incorporation.
  
• ABN or ACN confirmation from the Australian Business Register.

Proof of Address

Documents showing your physical business address. The name and address must match your business listing exactly:

• Utility bill (electricity, water, or gas).
  
• Council rates notice or lease agreement.
  
• Official business bank statement.

Proof of Ownership & Operation

If you’re a tenant or home-based business, Google may request documents proving you operate from the address:

• Signed lease or rental agreement.
• Letter from the property owner or landlord confirming business operations.
  
• Official tax document showing the business address.

Website or Email Verification

If your business domain or email (e.g., info@
yourbusiness.com.au)
is publicly associated with your website, Google may use this to verify your identity. Ensure:

• Your business name and contact info appear clearly on your website’s footer or contact page.
  
• The email domain matches your website domain.

Verification Methods You Might Encounter

Google offers several verification options. The one you receive depends on your business type and location.

Email or Phone Verification

Some businesses can verify instantly via email or phone. This only applies if Google already trusts the contact details listed. For service-based or home-based businesses, Google may require a live or recorded video showing your business premises, signage, and tools of trade to confirm your legitimacy.

Video Verification

For service-based or home-based businesses, Google may require a live or recorded video showing your business premises, signage, and tools of trade to confirm your legitimacy. Showing you unlocking the front door to your office, and street signs for additional location verification.

Need Help Getting Verified?

At Ranking Australia, we’re Google Experts who help businesses across Brisbane, Logan, and the Gold Coast set up and verify their Google Business Profiles the right way — with all documentation ready for approval.

We’ll ensure your business information is accurate, compliant with Google and AHPRA guidelines, and optimised for local SEO success.

Get Discovered Faster on Google Work with Ranking Australia to verify, optimise, and manage your Google Business Profile. Our Digital Discovery Support sessions include personalised setup assistance, compliance review, and local SEO optimisation — ensuring your brand stands out online.

What if my Appeal was already denied?

Often Verification can lead to suspension of your listing - We can help even if your Appeal process gets denied. There are other steps we can take - but you don't have many past here.

Give the experts a call on now 1300 762 496