How to Create a Google Business Profile in 2026

Why You Need a Google Business Profile

Visibility matters. A complete Google Business Profile puts your business on the map (literally!) and helps customers find and connect with you.

Beyond basic listings, a fully optimized GBP:

• Boosts local search rankings: so you appear at the top of Google Search and Maps.
• Enhances credibility: customers trust businesses with complete profiles.
• Drives engagement: when you share promotions, showcase photos and collect reviews to stand out in your industry.

Need proof? According to Google, customers are 2.7 times more likely to consider a business reputable if they find a complete GBP on Google Search and Maps. Not bad, right?

Create a Google Business Profile: Getting Started

The first step to take before creating your profile is to check to see if one already exists. How is that possible? Well… sometimes Google, or even a loyal customer, creates a profile without you knowing. 

Here’s how to check if that’s the case:

1. Do a Google Search

Enter your business name, phone number and location into Google. Look for a “Knowledge Panel” displaying business details like your address and reviews.

2. Try Google Maps

Perform the same search on Google Maps. If you’ve operated under other names, phone numbers, or addresses, try searching those too.

3. Check the Google Business Profile tool itself

Visit business.google.com and log in with any email addresses you’ve used to see if any render your business profile. If you log in and go through the “Create a Business” prompts, the GBP tool will attempt to locate an existing profile based on the information provided.

Found an unclaimed profile? If so, you can request ownership.

And if nothing comes up, then it’s time to create your GBP! Proceed to Step 2.

How to Set Up GBP Step-by-Step

Step 1: Set Up a Google Account for Your Business

Good news: if you already have a Gmail address, you already have a Google Account! If you use a different email address, such as a personal account like Yahoo or iCloud, or a domain email like name@companyname.com, you can still create a Google Account and link your existing email address to it. 

Google makes it easy to use your preferred email for account access. To create a Google account, follow these steps:

1. Visit accounts.google.com and click “Create an account.“
2. Choose “For my business.“
3. At this step, you should be prompted to create a new Gmail or use an existing email address, whether it’s a Gmail or a pre-existing email. 

If you use a pre-existing email, Google will send a confirmation email to link the two.

Step 2: Add Your Business to Google

Now that you have a Google Account, it’s time to create your GBP:

1. Visit google.com/business and click “Manage now.“
2. Enter your business name exactly as it appears on official documents or signage. Do not add extra keywords—this could lead to suspension.
3. If prompted, select “Add your business to Google.”

Step 3: Choose Your Business Type

Google will ask how your business operates. Choose the option that best describes you:

• Storefront: Google asks, “Do you want to add a location customers can visit, like a store or office?” If you select “Yes,” you’ll be prompted to provide your business address. If “No,” you’ll be asked where your services are provided.
• Service Area Business (SAB): For those who travel to customers, such as plumbers, roofers, or landscapers. Note: service areas should be within two hours of each other.

Step 4: Add Key Business Details

Google needs specific details about your business:

• Address:  Provide your storefront address or list your service areas if you’re an SAB. The storefront address must be unique to your business, client-facing, and have permanent signage to qualify. Note that Google does not allow using PO Boxes for any purpose. This applies to both the address displayed on your profile and the documentation submitted for verification!
• Contact Info: Include your phone number and website (if applicable). Note that businesses cannot share phone numbers to stay compliant with Google’s policies.

Double-check everything for accuracy, as even small errors can confuse potential customers, or even worse, Google.

Step 5: Verify Your Profile

Verification confirms that you’re the rightful owner of the business. Depending on your setup, Google may offer these options:

• Postcard: A code mailed to your business address (takes up to five days).
• Phone or Text: A code sent via call or SMS.
• Email: A code sent to your business email.
• Instant verification: Only available if your site has already been verified in Google Search Console.
• Video verification: Google may require a short, in-app video recording (cannot be pre-recorded) to confirm the business’s location, operations and documentation.

Note: Video verification is the most common option provided, especially for service area businesses. If the video verification attempt is unsuccessful, you can request a live video verification through a Support ticket. 

The thing is, you can’t pick and choose verification methods—Google provides options based on various factors.

Once verified, your profile will go live unless Google flags it for further checks. Their systems may request additional documentation like a business license, registration, insurance, or utility bills showing the business name. Unfortunately, there’s no way to know until that step arises. For more information on the entire process, check out Google’s Help Center.

Optimize Your GBP for Local SEO

A live GBP profile is just the beginning. Now, it’s time to optimize it to attract AND engage customers.

Be sure to add:

• Photos: Upload high-quality images of your office, products or completed projects.
• Videos: People love GBP videos! Give a quick overview of what you do, show off your work or offer a virtual tour.
• Description: Highlight in your GBP description what makes your business special.
• Updates: Post news, promotions or tips to keep your profile active. Something you can do in a few clicks with our Social Media Planner.
• Reviews: Respond to both positive and negative ones to build trust and show professionalism. And there too, we can help!
• Business categories: Make sure you select relevant categories to improve search visibility.
• Business services: List the services you provide to help customers and boost search results.

Keep Your Profile Up to Date

A GBP simply isn’t something you can “set and forget.” Regular updates ensure accuracy and relevance. For example, update your hours during holidays or promotions. 

Too busy for that? If managing GBP feels overwhelming, consider partnering with a specialist who can handle ongoing optimization and reporting for you.

Claim Your Spot on Google Today

Ensure your business is seen, trusted, and engaged by local customers with a complete, optimized profile.

Start Optimizing Today