How to get your business on Google Maps in 2026
The short answer
Create or claim a free Google Business Profile at google.com/business, add your details, then verify it using whichever method Google offers you, usually phone, text, email or a short video. Once it's verified, your business can show up on Google Maps and in local search with your hours, photos and reviews.
Step by step
- Sign in at google.com/business with the Google account that should own the listing. Use a business account you'll keep, not a staff member's personal one.
- Search for your business. If it already appears, claim it. If it doesn't, add it.
- Add your details: business name exactly as it appears on your signage, a category, your phone number and website, and either your address or the area you serve.
- Verify it. Google shows you the methods available for your business. More on this below.
- Fill in the rest: opening hours, services, a short description and real photos of your premises and work.
- Ask happy customers for reviews, and reply to the reviews you get, good and bad.
How verification works
When you add or claim a profile, Google may let you verify by phone, text, email or video, and you may need to use more than one. You don't get to pick freely: Google decides which methods are available based on things like your business category, region and public information, and those choices can't be changed.
If video is offered, Google recommends it. Record one continuous clip that shows your location, your signage or equipment, and proof that you manage the business, such as unlocking the door or opening the till. Video reviews can take around five days.
Two details worth knowing. If you've already verified your website in Google Search Console, your profile might be verified instantly. And Google will never call you to ask for your verification code, so anyone who does isn't Google.
Why verification fails
- The address doesn't match reality, or it's a virtual office.
- The video doesn't prove you run the business: no signage, no premises, no tools of the trade.
- The name includes extra keywords that aren't part of your real business name.
If Google rejects a video, the profile shows a "Review issues" notice, and you can try again or use another method if one is offered.
After you're verified
Google may ask a verified business to verify again after its information changes, so keep the details accurate. Link the profile to your website, and your website back to the profile, so both point customers to the same place. Our website checklist covers the rest.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Google Business Profile free?
Yes. Creating, verifying and managing a Google Business Profile costs nothing.
How long does Google Business Profile verification take?
It depends on the method Google offers. Phone, text and email can be quick, while a verification video can take around five days to be reviewed.
Can I choose how to verify my business?
No. Google decides which verification methods are available for your business, and those options can't be changed.
Will Google call me for my verification code?
No. Google says it won't call to ask for your verification code, so don't share it with anyone who asks.
Do I need a shop to be on Google Maps?
No. Businesses that visit customers can set a service area instead of showing a street address.
Where Codemark fits
We set up, verify and connect Google Business Profiles as part of our SEO work, so the profile and the website point customers to the same place.
Sources
- Google Business Profile Help, Verify your business on Google (verification methods, Search Console instant verification, re-verification)
- Google Business Profile Help, Fix verification issues (video recommendation, review issues, verification codes)
- BrightLocal, Verifying your Google Business Profile (video review times)